Learn more about laboratory rodent euthanasia
What will I need to use the Quietek™ in my facility?
The Quietek requires a CO2 source with a mimimum pressure of 25 psi. We do not recommend pressures above 60 psi. Both tanks and institutional gas supply lines are acceptable. You will also require a solid-sided cage and a lid such as the Quietek lid.
Can I use other cage lids or chambers?
The Quietek controller can be used with other lids and with chambers. To connect the Quietek to your chamber or lid, you can purchase tubing from us or use your own tubing. We can supply adapters to fit a wide range of lids and chambers. Call or email us for more information.
How much control do I have over the CO2 flow rate?
The flow rate is completely adjustable within the parameters set out in the AVMA regulations. To ensure proper compliance, it is also necessary to determine the cage volume.
What is the difference between models?
Any of our two models can switch between 2 cage sizes, if a lab works with mice and rats or 2 different size mouse cages. The Quietek 1 is available with and without RapidFill™, in which after the rodent is anesthetized, you can maximize the fill rate and save time. The Quietek XL is for larger cages.
How do I get the CO2 out of the induction chamber between euthanasia cycles?
Best practice is often considered to euthanize in the home cage as there is less stress to the animals (in this situation there is no need to purge the CO2). If you are using a euthanasia chamber or clean cage, then purging the chamber between uses is required (to maintain compliance). CO2 is heavier than “normal” air and so simply tipping the chamber over will release the CO2 from the cage. This process may take several minutes based on the size of your cage and air flow in the area.
How do I determine my cage volume?
Most rodent cages are at least somewhat tapered, or otherwise not perfectly rectangular in profile. Your institution may have specific guidelines for measuring cages; if so, you should follow those guidelines. If it does not, we suggest the following method:
If the cage is only very slightly tapered (e.g., Allentown cages), simply calculate the volume using the length and width (of the inside) at the top of the cage. Multiply the inside length, width and height of the cage, in cm. Subtract about 4 times the height and 2 times the length plus width, to account for the rounded corners, then divide by 1000 to get the volume in liters. (There are 1000 cubic centimeters in one liter.) For more strongly tapered cages, measure the length and width 1/2 way down from the top.
$$V = H\left[wl + \frac{(W-w)l}{2} + \frac{(L-l)w}{2} + \frac{(W-w)(L-l)}{3}\right]$$
If your cage is wedge-shaped (e.g., Animal Systems’ M.I.C.E cages) or otherwise irregular in outline, it is best to measure the cage volume directly by filling it with water.
A handy calculator to approximate the volume of a cuboid (box-shaped) cage is available.
