Research Animals

Laboratory Rabbit Welfare

Rabbits remain among the most commonly used animals in biomedical research. Improving their welfare within research settings reduces suffering and improves scientific validity.

Key Facts

Over 200,000 rabbits are used in research annually in the US alone
Rabbits are used in skin and eye irritation tests that cause significant pain
The Draize eye test involves restraining rabbits and applying chemicals to their eyes
Social housing for laboratory rabbits is increasingly recognized as necessary
The 3Rs framework aims to Replace, Reduce, and Refine animal use in research

Welfare Considerations

Rabbits in laboratory settings have historically been kept individually in small wire cages, causing chronic stress. Social isolation is particularly harmful to this social species. Restraint during procedures causes extreme fear in prey animals like rabbits. Modern welfare guidelines call for group housing with enrichment, hiding places, and elevated platforms. Pain management protocols in rabbit research have improved but remain inconsistent.

What You Can Do

Support funding for development and validation of non-animal test methods
Advocate for mandatory social housing standards for laboratory rabbits
Choose cosmetics from companies that do not test on animals
Support the EU's efforts to phase out the Draize test
Donate to organizations developing alternative testing methods