Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

What is the best disinfectant product to use for general cage cleaning according to wildlife rehabilitation standards?

1. A product with bacteriostatic properties

2. A product with both bacteriostatic and virucidal properties

3. A product with bactericidal, bacteriostatic, and virucidal properties

4. None of the above is recommended for general cage cleaning

The correct answer is: A product with bactericidal, bacteriostatic, and virucidal properties

The best disinfectant product for general cage cleaning, as indicated by wildlife rehabilitation standards, should have bactericidal, bacteriostatic, and virucidal properties. This is because wildlife rehabilitators frequently encounter a variety of pathogens that can affect both the animals in their care and the human handlers. A bactericidal disinfectant can kill bacteria, which is crucial for preventing bacterial infections that could spread among animals or to humans. A bacteriostatic property helps inhibit the growth and reproduction of bacteria, providing an additional layer of safety by reducing the overall bacterial load. Finally, a virucidal property ensures the destruction of viruses, which may not be eliminated by products that only target bacteria. Using a disinfectant that combines all these properties provides comprehensive protection, ensuring that the environment remains safe and sanitary for various species being rehabilitated. This thorough cleaning process is essential in minimizing the risk of disease transmission in a wildlife rehabilitation setting.