Automatic monitoring system for the measurement of body weight, food and water consumption and spontaneous activity of a mouse.

The simultaneous recording system for body weight, food and water consumption and behavior (spontaneous motor activity and drinking and feeding behavior) of a mouse was developed. The body weight and food consumption were measured by force transducers. Food and water consumption and drinking and feeding behavior were measured by an infrared luminous diode and a phototransistor. Spontaneous motor activity was measured by photosensors. The system control and data acquisition were performed by using a personal computer. Every parameter could be monitored with a desired time interval. All the data collected by this system revealed apparent circadian rhythm. In conclusion, this system would be a powerful tool for pharmacological and/or toxicological research.