PILAB Rodents Exam (Latest 2026–2027
Update) | Verified Questions & Correct
Answers | Grade A | 100% Accuracy
What is the natural purpose of mouse vocalisations?
Use calls to invoke nursing behaviour, indicate distress when pups are separated, when
displaying reproductive behaviour, and in play.
Where are pheromones secreted from mice and what is their purpose?
Feet and urine
Mark territory, provide information on health, emotional states, reduce aggression, and transmit
information on food choices.
What is the purpose of vibrissae on mice?
(also known as whiskers)
Give tactile information on the size and shape of surroundings and their own body position
What is the gestation period of a mouse?
18-21 days
What is the average weight of an adult male and adult female mouse?
Male: 25-90g
,PILAB Rodents Exam (Latest 2026–2027
Update) | Verified Questions & Correct
Answers | Grade A | 100% Accuracy
Female: 20-40g
What is the average weight of an adult male and adult female rat?
Male: 300-400g
Female: 250-300g
At what age do female and male mice reach sexual maturity?
Male: 5-6 weeks
Female: 6-8 weeks
What is the gestation period of a rat?
20-23 days
How long does the rodent oestrus cycle last?
4-5 days
Are rodents herbivores, omnivores, or carnivores?
Omnivores
, PILAB Rodents Exam (Latest 2026–2027
Update) | Verified Questions & Correct
Answers | Grade A | 100% Accuracy
Define coprophagic
Consumption of fecal matter to aid digestion
What are phytooestrogens and how can this affect science?
Phytooestrogens in rodent diet have been recognised a potentially important scientific variable as
they mimic the structure and function of oestrogens. They are found primarily in diets including
soybean so many companies produce diets free of soybean.
Give examples of enrichment material for rodents
1. Nesting material - tissue, shredded paper, shavings (mice highly motivated to nest, rats less so
unless females about to give birth)
2. Tubes, boxes, climbing structures and running wheels can be provided
3. Cage structures such as shelters and running wheels have been shown to increase aggression in
some male animals
4. Food scattering - encourages foraging behaviour
Providing enrichment for animals complies with which of the three Rs?
Refinement
What are the social housing requirements for mice and what are the exceptions to this
In groups of 6.
Update) | Verified Questions & Correct
Answers | Grade A | 100% Accuracy
What is the natural purpose of mouse vocalisations?
Use calls to invoke nursing behaviour, indicate distress when pups are separated, when
displaying reproductive behaviour, and in play.
Where are pheromones secreted from mice and what is their purpose?
Feet and urine
Mark territory, provide information on health, emotional states, reduce aggression, and transmit
information on food choices.
What is the purpose of vibrissae on mice?
(also known as whiskers)
Give tactile information on the size and shape of surroundings and their own body position
What is the gestation period of a mouse?
18-21 days
What is the average weight of an adult male and adult female mouse?
Male: 25-90g
,PILAB Rodents Exam (Latest 2026–2027
Update) | Verified Questions & Correct
Answers | Grade A | 100% Accuracy
Female: 20-40g
What is the average weight of an adult male and adult female rat?
Male: 300-400g
Female: 250-300g
At what age do female and male mice reach sexual maturity?
Male: 5-6 weeks
Female: 6-8 weeks
What is the gestation period of a rat?
20-23 days
How long does the rodent oestrus cycle last?
4-5 days
Are rodents herbivores, omnivores, or carnivores?
Omnivores
, PILAB Rodents Exam (Latest 2026–2027
Update) | Verified Questions & Correct
Answers | Grade A | 100% Accuracy
Define coprophagic
Consumption of fecal matter to aid digestion
What are phytooestrogens and how can this affect science?
Phytooestrogens in rodent diet have been recognised a potentially important scientific variable as
they mimic the structure and function of oestrogens. They are found primarily in diets including
soybean so many companies produce diets free of soybean.
Give examples of enrichment material for rodents
1. Nesting material - tissue, shredded paper, shavings (mice highly motivated to nest, rats less so
unless females about to give birth)
2. Tubes, boxes, climbing structures and running wheels can be provided
3. Cage structures such as shelters and running wheels have been shown to increase aggression in
some male animals
4. Food scattering - encourages foraging behaviour
Providing enrichment for animals complies with which of the three Rs?
Refinement
What are the social housing requirements for mice and what are the exceptions to this
In groups of 6.
