Welfare Science

Cat Laboratory Welfare and 3Rs Application

Cats used in biomedical research face welfare challenges, and the 3Rs framework - Replacement, Reduction, and Refinement - provides a path to improved outcomes.

Key Facts

Approximately 24,000 cats are used in UK research annually
Cats are particularly useful for neurological and cardiac research
The 3Rs framework requires scientific justification for animal use and welfare improvements
Housing standards for laboratory cats have improved significantly in recent decades
Social housing and enrichment are increasingly required in animal research facilities

Welfare Considerations

Laboratory cats experience confinement, handling stress, and research procedures that cause discomfort. While animal research has regulatory oversight, cats' social complexity and sensitivity make welfare particularly important. Applying the 3Rs rigorously - replacing cats with alternatives where possible, reducing numbers, and refining procedures to minimise suffering - is the framework for progress.

What You Can Do

Support organisations advocating for 3Rs implementation in animal research
Advocate for publication of animal use data and welfare outcomes
Learn about the 3Rs framework and how to support its implementation