Handling: Effects on eight-arm-maze behavior and hippocampal trace metals

Abstract

In order to identify the mechanisms by which handling may affect behavior in the adult rat, somatosensory stimulation was manipulated independently of handling time. Multivariate analyses revealed that stroking accounted for more of the variance in behaviors associated with changes in hippocampal function (eight-arm-maze behavior) than did handling time. In a separate test, both holding and stroking increased errors in the eight-arm maze, whereas holding tended to decrease average choice time. Handling was also associated with a reduction in levels of the trace metal copper in the hippocampus. These results are discussed in terms of typical physiological effects of handling as associated with trace metal physiology.

Gentled and non‐handled rats in a stressful open‐field situation; differences in performance

“…The rarity of long sniffing rearings, also common for both groups. points to low explorativeness (Chafetz & Bernard, 1984) and could be interpreted as escape behaviour in an unpleasant-stressful-situation (Williams & Russell, 1972).…”

“…High ambulation in the middle parts of the field is considered as a sign of explorativity or low emotionality (e.g. Hughes, 1978, Chafetz & Bernard, 1984; actually, low emotionality may be considered as a prerequisite of exploration (Gray el al., 1976).…”

“…On open-field, handling has been observed to decrease emotionality and increase exploration and activity in rats (Williams & Russell, 1972). On the other hand, standardized stroking increases the number of errors in maze-learning tests (Chafetz & Bernard, 1984) and can be used as a punishment, just like an electric shock (Candland etal., 1960, Candland etai., 1962.…”

“…The way an animal experiences "handling" is intimately dependent on the type and quality of the "handling" (Chafetz & Bernard, 1984). When the aim is to reduce the fear of human contact care must be taken to handle the animals gently.…”