ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the applicability of the concept of the “Five Freedoms” to the field of laboratory animal science, in relation to behavioural needs and potential environmental refinement. Laboratory animals are maintained in standardised laboratory environments that are usually impoverished and monotonous. Appropriate programs for environmental refinement should be developed to promote the psychological well-being of laboratory animals. Standardisation of laboratory animal housing has the objective of reducing individual variation between animals and thereby the number of animals needed for each experiment. The construction of standard animal cages largely precludes them as a source of physical injury. An animal needs adequate space, proper facilities, and the company of conspecifics; that is, the possibility for social interaction if it is to express its normal behavioural repertoire. Improving of the welfare of laboratory animal housing depends on meeting the physiological and behavioural needs of the occupants.
