Digging Test
Bryan Killinger, sdwalto, Jeffrey Kordower
Published: 2024-02-29 DOI: 10.17504/protocols.io.bp2l6xj3zlqe/v1
Abstract
Digging test optimized for mice. This is a test to assess olfaction impairment. The more olfactory impairment or deficits, the longer it will take to find the sweetened treat.
Steps
1.
Fast mice overnight (Do not exceed 24 hours).
2.
Prepare a clean mouse cage filled with 3 cm of bedding.
3.
Prepare an appetitive stimulus of sweetened cereal. Cinnamon Toast Crunch was used here.
4.
Bury cereal piece 0.5 cm below the bedding along the perimeter of the cage.
5.
Monitor the mouse for 5 mins or until they find the treat. Time was recorded until the treat was found. If treat was not found by the end of 5 mins, mouse does not get the treat.
6.
Replace the bedding and repeat for each mouse.
