What should be monitored for during the quarantine period of newly shipped animals?

During the quarantine period of newly shipped animals, the primary focus is on monitoring for signs of disease and immunosuppression. This is crucial because newly arrived animals may carry pathogens that could not only affect their health but also pose a risk to existing populations in the facility. Detecting any early symptoms of illness is vital to control potential outbreaks and to protect both the new animals and the well-established animals already present in the facility.

Quarantine serves as a critical phase to ensure the health of the animals and to provide necessary veterinary care if any issues arise. Indicators of immunosuppression, such as decreased activity or increased susceptibility to infections, are also monitored, as these can reflect underlying health issues that need to be addressed immediately. By ensuring these aspects are closely observed, handlers can promote a safe and healthy environment for all laboratory animals involved.

The other options, while relevant to animal husbandry, are typically secondary considerations that may not take precedence during the quarantine period compared to health monitoring.