What is the term for the technique of killing animals so they experience little or no pain or stress?

• A. Euthanasia
• B. Anesthesia
• C. Sedation
• D. Immobilization

Answer: (A)

The concept being tested is humane end-of-life care for animals. Euthanasia is the term for intentionally ending an animal’s life in a way that causes little or no pain or stress. This differentiates it from anesthesia, which is aimed at blocking pain during procedures but does not kill; sedation, which quiets or reduces awareness without ending life; and immobilization, which only restricts movement without addressing pain or death. In vertebrate pest control and welfare practices, euthanasia is used to humanely remove animals when continuing life isn’t appropriate, with methods chosen to minimize suffering. Sometimes anesthesia or sedation may be used as part of the process to ensure insensibility, but the overall act is euthanasia.