Rat IVC racks are crucial for research laboratories using rodent testing subjects. These systems are specifically designed to house mice and rats so the animals have a safe and controlled environment during and after research. Scientific rat IVC racks follow the same principle as any rodent housing but require some additional care and configurations to ensure the safety of the rodents and the success of scientific research. This blog post will look at the available rat IVC racks and how they can be customized to suit researcher requirements.
Why is a Rat IVC Rack Needed?
Any animal kept indoors needs to be well looked after, which applies equally to animals used in scientific research. Rat rack systems should provide comfortable and safe housing for rodents to maximize their well-being and ensure they are safe for research. In a research setting, rat racks can be designed in various configurations depending on laboratory needs and specific requirements of a scientific study.
How to Select a Rat IVC Rack for a Vivarium
Selecting a rat IVC rack for a vivarium doesn’t have to be difficult, but multiple aspects must be considered. Before purchasing a system, the setting it will be used in must be analyzed to ensure the most suitable solution is available.
Consider the size of the laboratory and what space is available for a rat IVC rack, as they are produced in different sizes and configurations. It is worth planning and measuring your free space and thinking about what shelves and other components need to be assembled.
Key aspects related to a rat IVC rack that need to be considered include the following:
- Access doors
- Bedding
- Frames
- Food and water
- Heating systems
- Maintenance schedules
- Safety measures
- Shelving
- Ventilation systems
ARES Scientific
ARES Scientific supplies the scientific community with innovative and sustainable products to support their scientific research. We partner with leading manufacturers that provide high-quality products for specific applications, and rat IVC racks are no exception. We currently offer more than 10 animal housing systems, each offering different customization to suit your requirements.
Alternative Design Rat IVC Ventilated Caging System
The IVC caging system was designed to save laboratory space, increase efficiency and provide rodents with a comfortable housing environment. The system comprises a stainless-steel frame and can support 25 to 36 rat cages. It has various options for cage tops, water bottles, and air-handling units.
Animal Care Systems Optirat GenII IVC Rack
The Optirat GenII is a 42-cage high-density rat IVC rack that uses filtered laminar airflow to eliminate allergens, smells, and heat loads. It requires no blower and provides superior, low-velocity air.IIts frame is stainless steel, and the wide front-face of the cage allows excellent visibility. Easy access is supported by the rotating carousel design of the system, and customizable aspects include the cage tops, feeders, watering, and associated accessories.
Animal Care Systems Optirat Plus IVC Rack
The Optirat Plus is a high-density, multi-level-cage rat IVC rack that holds 30 cages. This larger cage promotes natural behaviors in animals, and the optional mezzanine increases the floor space and provides increased enrichment. This IVC rat cage can also house larger rodents, such as hamsters, guinea pigs, and deer mice. Like the Optirat GenII, the Optirat Plus also eliminates allergens, smells, and heat loads at the cage level and needs no blower. It’s compatible with water bottles and auto-water systems.
Contact a team member today to learn more about the rat IVC racks we provide and how they can support the well-being and safety of your scientific research rodents.
