Welfare Science

Mouse Enrichment in Laboratory Settings: 3Rs Application

Overview of enrichment provision for laboratory mice and evidence for welfare benefits.

Key Facts

Mice are the most widely used laboratory animals globally
Nesting material is now considered essential enrichment in most regulatory frameworks
Social housing reduces chronic stress in group-housed laboratory mice
Environmental complexity reduces stereotypies and improves experimental validity
Enrichment can reduce variability in research outcomes by improving baseline welfare

Welfare Considerations

Laboratory mouse welfare has improved significantly through mandatory enrichment requirements in many jurisdictions. Nesting material, social housing, and environmental complexity reduce chronic stress and improve welfare. These improvements also enhance research quality by reducing stress-induced variability. The welfare and scientific benefits of enrichment make it a compelling case for continued 3Rs advancement.

What You Can Do

Support NC3Rs and similar organisations advancing laboratory animal welfare
Advocate for enrichment requirements in animal research ethics frameworks
Follow 3Rs research that demonstrates both welfare and science quality benefits