Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT) Practice Exam 2025 - Free ALAT Practice Questions and Study Guide

The two main categories of euthanasia methods are chemical and physical. This classification is important as it reflects the techniques used to achieve euthanasia in laboratory animals in a humane and ethical manner.

Chemical methods involve the administration of substances that induce death through pharmacological means. Common agents used in this category include anesthetics, such as barbiturates, which act by depressing the central nervous system. These methods are often preferred because they can minimize pain and distress for the animal, and are easier to control and administer in a clinical setting.

Physical methods, on the other hand, include techniques that cause death through direct physical actions. This can encompass methods such as cervical dislocation or the use of carbon dioxide. These techniques require more training and consideration of animal welfare, as they may involve more immediate physical trauma.

Understanding these categories is crucial for animal care technicians, as it helps ensure that euthanasia is performed in accordance with animal welfare guidelines and regulations. Each method should be chosen based on specific circumstances, including the species of the animal, the setting, and the justification for euthanasia.