Cats used in biomedical research face significant welfare challenges, and strong advocacy has led to some of the most successful laboratory animal rescue programs.
Cats used in research often experience chronic welfare problems from long-term restraint, invasive procedures, and social isolation in laboratory environments. Some neurological research protocols involve permanently implanted devices and prolonged housing in individual cages that prevent social interaction. Cats are particularly sensitive to environmental stress and isolation. Advocacy campaigns targeting specific programs and institutions have achieved significant reductions in cat use in research. The availability of alternatives including computer models and in vitro methods makes continued cat use increasingly difficult to justify scientifically as well as ethically.