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1Department of Behavioural Sciences, Animal Biology Division, Sir Stephen Watson Building, Bush Estate, Penicuik EH26 0PH, Scotland, UK.
Contemporary Topics in Laboratory Animal Science
|September 18, 2009
Summary
Providing nest boxes is crucial for environmental enrichment in laboratory rats. Rats show a strong preference for enclosed, opaque, thermoplastic nest boxes, which should be implemented in all research facilities.
Area of Science:
- Animal behavior
- Laboratory animal science
- Environmental enrichment
Background:
- Nest boxes are a common method for environmental enrichment in laboratory animal research.
- Providing appropriate housing conditions is essential for animal welfare and research integrity.
- Understanding animal preferences guides the selection of enrichment tools.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate rat preferences for different types of nest boxes.
- To determine the most preferred nest box characteristics for laboratory rats.
- To provide recommendations for nest box implementation in research settings.
Main Methods:
- Rats were presented with various nest box designs.
- T-maze tasks were utilized to assess nest box preference.
- Preference was measured by T-maze choice.
Main Results:
- Rats demonstrated acceptance of a wide variety of nest box types.
- A significant preference was observed for enclosed, opaque, thermoplastic nest boxes.
- Nest box design significantly influences rat choices.
Conclusions:
- Nest boxes are a valuable and effective environmental enrichment for laboratory rats.
- Enclosed, opaque, thermoplastic nest boxes are strongly preferred by rats.
- Implementation of preferred nest box types should be considered in all laboratory animal facilities.
