Decision tree
How much blood does a mouse have?
On average, mice have around 58.5 ml of blood per kg of bodyweight.
A mouse weighing 25 g would therefore have a total blood volume (TBV) of approximately 58.5 ml/kg x 0.025 kg = 1.46 ml.
How to decide on the most appropriate blood sampling technique for mice?
The two tables below are designed to assist in determining the amount of blood to sample from the animal, and depending on that volume, the most appropriate techniques to use.
1. Do you require more than one blood sample from the same mouse?
|
YES |
NO |
|---|---|
|
Maximum <10% TBV (= 0.14 ml) on any single occasion AND <15% TBV ( = 0.21 ml) in 28 days |
Maximum <10% TBV ( = 0.14 ml) |
|
For repeat bleeds at short intervals, suggested limit <1% TBV (= 0.01 ml) in 24 hours AND consider cannulation |
OR terminal sample under general anaesthesia (volume unrestricted) |
2. How much blood do you require?
|
Total of <0.20 ml |
Total of >0.20 ml |
|
|---|---|---|
|
General anaesthesia required |
General anaesthesia not required |
General anaesthesia required; non recovery |
|
Sublingual vein* |
Mandibular vein** Tail snip **** |
|
* Not widely used (Hiemann et al. 2009)
** Not widely used (Golde et al. 2005)
*** Cannulation surgery performed under general anaesthesia.
**** Not recommended as more refined methods of sampling exist. Plus a mixed arterial / venous sample is obtained.
# Blood may be mixed with tissue fluid.