Practical ideas for refinement in animal experiments (1995)

Morton, D. B.

Abstract

General consideration pertaining to refinement. The notion of refinement is that suffering should be reduced to the minimum consistent with attaining the scientific objectives of the experiment. .. Refinement can be defined not only as ways in which animal suffering can be reduced, but also how animal welfare can be enhanced [p. 157]. .. We may have to constantly change the environment for animals to avoid boredom. So novely as well as complexity are essential features of a good enriched environment. .. Fear and anxiety are probably the commonest adverse effects suffered by laboratory animals [p. 161].