Guidance on furnishings and enrichment for laboratory animals
The Swedish National Committee has previously clarified the differences between furnishings and enrichment for laboratory animals. A guidance document is now available to support the selection of furnishings and enrichment for different species.
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. During 2025, we published a statement from the Swedish National Committee for the Protection of Animals Used for Scientific Purposes 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.
We have developed a guidance document to provide tips and inspiration when selecting furnishings and enrichment for different species. The document is based on information from animal welfare bodies across Sweden.
The following species are included in the guidance document:
- Mouse
- Rat
- Rabbit
- Pig
- Horse
- Birds
- Fish