Effect of a conditioning method on general safety test in guinea pigs.

Prior to utilization for safety tests, one group of guinea pigs was selected after a 1-week conditioning period, on the basis of physical appearance and a 5% body weight gain. Those in a second group were selected shortly after being received, on the basis of their physical appearance. All guinea pigs were maintained under identical management conditions during the safety tests. The number of guinea pigs that gained weight from both groups were compared. The conditioning method used resulted in significant (p less than 0.001) increase in the number of guinea pigs that maintained or increased body weight during general safety tests.