Use of In-Cage Shelters by Laboratory Rats
Publication Type: |
Journal Article |
Year of Publication: |
1997 |
Authors: |
P. Townsend |
Publication/Journal: |
Animal Welfare |
Keywords: |
animal welfare, enrichment, housing, rats, shelters |
Abstract:
The effect of providing a shelter to single-housed rats was measured in terms of the preference shown for a cage containing a shelter compared with a barren cage, the range of behaviours performed and the apparent fearfulness of the animals. All animals showed a strong preference for cages containing a shelter and rats housed in this environment showed increased exploratory behaviour and were apparently less fearful, based on their willingness to leave the home-cage. It would seem appropriate to provide enclosed shelters within the cages of laboratory rats as a way of improving their environment.