Related Experiment Video
Updated: Mar 6, 2026
05:33
Introducing Clicker Training as a Cognitive Enrichment for Laboratory Mice
Published on: March 6, 2017
13.6K
Introducing Clicker Training as a Cognitive Enrichment for Laboratory Mice
Charlotte Leidinger1, Felix Herrmann2, Christa Thöne-Reineke3
1Translational Animal Research Center, University Medical Centre, Johannes Gutenberg-Universität Mainz; Department of Veterinary Medicine, Institute of Animal Welfare, Animal Behavior and Laboratory Animal Science, Freie Universität Berlin.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|March 14, 2017
Summary
Clicker training, a positive reinforcement method, significantly reduces fear and anxiety in laboratory mice. This cognitive enrichment strategy enhances animal welfare and can be easily integrated into daily routines.
Area of Science:
- Laboratory animal science
- Animal behavior and welfare
- Refinement strategies
Background:
- Directive 2010/63/EU mandates improved standards for laboratory animals.
- Gentle handling protocols positively impact laboratory mouse well-being.
- Cognitive enrichment is crucial for enhancing the welfare of research animals.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effectiveness of clicker training as a refinement strategy for laboratory mice.
- To assess the impact of clicker training on reducing fear and anxiety in mice.
- To develop a practical protocol for integrating cognitive enrichment into daily animal care.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of a clicker training protocol with BALB/c inbred mice (12 of each sex).
- Utilized positive reinforcement with a "click" sound as a secondary reinforcer.
- Assessed learning acquisition and behavioral responses during human-mouse interactions.
Main Results:
- Clicker training protocol was uncomplicated and easily implemented.
- Mice demonstrated rapid learning, with high success rates (100% female, 83% male).
- Training significantly reduced anxiety-related behaviors (defecation, vocalization, urination) and depression-like behaviors (floating).
Conclusions:
- Clicker training is an effective method for cognitive enrichment in laboratory mice.
- This positive reinforcement strategy substantially reduces fear and improves welfare during human-animal interactions.
- The developed protocol offers a practical approach to enhance the lifetime experience of laboratory mice.
