Re: [HAPS-L] how long do cats last?

[Kerrie Hoar <hoar.kerr@xxxxxxxxx>]

We have since switched to prosected cadavers, but used to use cats from NASCO.  We run A&P I and II during both semesters and found that the cats lasted okay for the Fall/Spring sequence, but did not last well over the summer months for use in the Spring/Fall sequence.

We did not add additional preservative and did not have access to refrigeration for storage.

Kerrie

On May 11, 2007, at 1:57 PM, Eric Dewar wrote:

Hi folks,

I have a question about preserved cats that I didn't see in the listserv archive:  How long do preserved cats last if refrigerated?  

Has anyone tried to use cats (preserved in Carolina's "Perfect Solution") for muscles in A&P 1 as well as viscera and circulatory system in A&P 2?  I'm used to using the whole animal in a comparative anatomy lab, but not sure how well they weather two semesters of use.  Does anyone have a sense of their favorite preservative that prevents decay without being too hard on the students' noses?  I know that this is a balance...any opinions would be welcome.

Thanks!

Eric

______________________________________________________ 

Eric W. Dewar

Department of Biology

Suffolk University

Beacon Hill

Boston, MA 02114 USA

Kerrie L. Hoar, M.S.

Department of Biology

University of Wisconsin -- La Crosse

341 Cowley Hall

La Crosse, WI  54601

(608) 785-6459

http://www.uwlax.edu/biology/faculty/Hoar/kerrie_hoar.htm

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