Research Animals

Rabbit Welfare in Research and the 3Rs

Rabbits remain widely used in research including antibody production and eye irritation testing, with welfare improvements from validated alternatives ongoing.

Key Facts

Rabbits are the third most used research species in the EU after mice and rats
The Draize eye test using rabbits to assess chemical irritancy has been used since 1944
Validated in vitro alternatives to the Draize test have been accepted for cosmetics in EU since 2009
Antibody production in rabbits involves repeated immunization and blood collection procedures
Rabbit grimace scales have been validated enabling pain assessment during and after procedures

Welfare Considerations

Rabbit welfare in research has improved through adoption of the 3Rs but significant use continues. The Draize test replacement with validated in vitro methods represents a substantial welfare advancement. Remaining rabbit use for antibody production involves repeated procedures that cause ongoing welfare concern. Recombinant antibody technology increasingly enables replacement of animal-derived antibodies in research applications.

What You Can Do

Choose cosmetics certified as not tested on animals using validated alternatives
Support regulatory acceptance of validated alternative tests to reduce rabbit use
Advocate for replacement of animal-derived antibodies with recombinant alternatives in research
Learn about progress in replacing rabbit-based tests with validated in vitro methods
Donate to organizations developing and validating alternatives to animal-based research procedures