Massachusetts Wildlife Rehabilitator Practice Exam

Why is daily removal of feces and urine from cages important?

1. To prevent odor

2. To prevent disease transmission

3. Both A and B

4. Neither A nor B

The correct answer is: Both A and B

Daily removal of feces and urine from animal cages is essential for several reasons that address both hygiene and animal welfare. Maintaining cleanliness in cages prevents the buildup of waste materials, which can lead to unpleasant odors that might stress both the animals and caregivers. Beyond merely keeping the environment pleasant, the presence of waste can create unsanitary conditions that facilitate the spread of diseases. Feces and urine can harbor pathogens, parasites, and bacteria that pose health risks not only to the animals housed within the cages but also to humans interacting with them. By regularly cleaning cages, wildlife rehabilitators reduce the risk of disease transmission—important for the health of both individual animals and the population as a whole. This practice is an integral part of proper animal husbandry and fosters a healthier recovery environment for the animals in care. In summary, the necessity of daily feces and urine removal from cages intertwines the goals of odor prevention and disease control, thus making both aspects critical to the well-being of rehabilitated wildlife.