Quality of life and the rodent laboratory (2007)

Balcombe, J. P.

Abstract

Preference studies show that lab mice and rats value opportunities to take cover, build nests, explore, forage, and gain social contact, behavioural needs that are by and large thwarted by standard laboratory housing systems. Eighty additional studies were reviewed to assess the potential stress associated with three routine laboratory procedures: handling, blood collection, and gavage. Pronounced and significant changes in stress indicators (eg concentrations of corticosterone, heart rate, blood pressure) occurred for all three procedures, indicating fear, stress, and/or distress. These literature reviews depict a poor Quality of Life where chronic lack of stimulation is exacerbated by regular stressful episodes. Consistent ethics demand a dramatic revision of our treatment of rodents in labs.