Methods of Euthanasia

General Recommendations for Euthanizing Laboratory Animals 

Method or Agent	Class	Species	Comment
Carbon dioxide	hypoxia-depression	Rodents Rabbits	Unconsciousness fairly rapid. No motor activity. A nonprecharged chamber and a low gas flow rate recommended.
Anesthetic gases Metofane- expensive	hypoxia-depression	Rabbits and larger require mask or intubation.	Unconsciousness fairly rapid. Motor activity may occur. User must be protected. Potential toxicity.
Barbituric acid derivatives	hypoxia-depression	All species (dogs, cats, rabbits)	Very rapid, i.v. in rabbits, i.p. in rodents. Very good. Controlled substances.
Cervical Dislocation	physical damage	Mice, small rats, hamster	Requires experience. Motor activity. Light anesthesia is suggested. Requires scientific justification.

Special Recommendations on Euthanasia of Animals When Chemically Uncontaminated Tissues and/or Immediate Cessation of CNS Metabolism is Required

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