Table 3. An example of a distress scale.
An example of a distress scale (Lloyd and Wolfensohn 1999). To determine the distress/suffering of an animal, a distress scale can provide a measurable state that can be used to define humane endpoints. It is important to ensure that animals are not in pain or suffering prior to conducting neurological or behavioural assessments, as these would confound stroke-related impairments. The following categories are distinguished: Normal (0–4; no action); Mild distress (5–9; monitor carefully, consider analgesics); Suffering (10–14; provide relief, observe regularly, consider euthanasia/perfusion); Severe pain or distress (15–20; immediate termination/perfusion); Refine procedure (18–20; consult with veterinary regarding procedure). For each score of 4, an additional point is added to the score.
| Description | Score | |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Signs | Normal | 0 |
| General lack of grooming, ocular/nasal discharge | 1 | |
| Coat staring | 2 | |
| Pinched features, ridge lines | 4 | |
| Body Weight | Normal – gaining weight | 0 |
| B.W. < 5% reduction | 1 | |
| B.W. 5–15% reduction | 2 | |
| B.W. > 15% reduction | 4 | |
| Disease score | Normal | 0 |
| Loss of forelimb grip | 0.5 | |
| Forelimb paralysis | 1 | |
| Incomplete hind limb paralysis | 2 | |
| Forepaw and hindlimb paralysis | 3 | |
| Loss of righting reflex | 4 | |
| Provoked behavior | Normal | 0 |
| Minor depression or exaggerated response | 1 | |
| Moderate change/isolated | 2 | |
| Very still/lethargic | 4 |