Statement on furnishings and enrichment for laboratory animals
In Sweden there are two concepts used to describe modifications to the housing environment – furnishings and enrichment. The two concepts are frequently used interchangeably. The National Committee has issued a statement to clarify the difference between furnishings and enrichment.
Environmental enrichment is often mentioned in discussions about the welfare of laboratory animals. In Sweden there are two concepts used to describe modifications to the housing environment – furnishings and enrichment. The two concepts are frequently used interchangeably. The Swedish National Committee for the Protection of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes wants to clarify the differences we believe exist between furnishings and enrichment.
The National Committee considers that:
- Furnishings refers to resources in the enclosure that meet the animals’ basic needs.
- Enrichment refers to resources provided to the animals to offer stimulation beyond their basic needs.
The statement also provides examples of resources that can be considered furnishings or enrichment for different species, as well as examples of enrichment that are relevant for most species.
The statement was published in Swedish earlier this spring.