Thesis Abstract

Abstract
This thesis investigates the impact of environmental enrichment on the behavior and welfare of laboratory mice. The well-being of laboratory animals, particularly rodents like mice, is of paramount importance in research settings to ensure reliable results and ethical treatment. Environmental enrichment encompasses various strategies aimed at enhancing the physical and social environment of animals to promote their natural behaviors and overall welfare. In this study, we explore how different forms of environmental enrichment influence the behavior and welfare of laboratory mice, with a focus on assessing stress levels, cognitive function, social interactions, and overall quality of life. The research methodology involves a combination of observational studies, behavioral assessments, and physiological measurements to evaluate the effects of environmental enrichment on laboratory mice. This includes monitoring changes in activity levels, exploratory behavior, social interactions, and stress markers in response to different enrichment interventions. Furthermore, the study incorporates the analysis of cognitive performance through maze tests and other cognitive tasks to assess the impact of environmental enrichment on cognitive abilities in mice. The findings from this research provide valuable insights into the benefits of environmental enrichment for laboratory mice. Results indicate that environmental enrichment positively influences the behavior and welfare of mice by reducing stress levels, promoting natural behaviors, enhancing cognitive function, and improving overall well-being. The study also highlights the importance of individual differences in response to enrichment, emphasizing the need for personalized enrichment strategies tailored to the specific needs of each animal. Overall, this thesis contributes to the growing body of literature on animal welfare and enrichment by shedding light on the significance of environmental factors in shaping the behavior and welfare of laboratory mice. The implications of this research extend beyond the laboratory setting to emphasize the importance of providing enriching environments for animals in captivity to ensure their physical and psychological well-being. By understanding the impact of environmental enrichment on laboratory mice, we can enhance their quality of life and contribute to more ethical and scientifically valid research practices.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Exploring the Impact of Environmental Enrichment on Behavior and Welfare of Laboratory Mice" aims to investigate the effects of environmental enrichment on the behavior and welfare of laboratory mice. This research is motivated by the importance of understanding how the living environment influences the well-being and behavior of animals, particularly in laboratory settings where animals are commonly used for scientific research. The background of the study delves into the concept of environmental enrichment and its significance in animal welfare. Environmental enrichment refers to the enhancement of the living environment of animals to promote their physical and psychological well-being. In laboratory settings, where animals may experience stress and limited opportunities for natural behaviors, providing enrichment can help alleviate negative effects and improve overall welfare. The problem statement highlights the need to address the potential impact of environmental enrichment on the behavior and welfare of laboratory mice. By exploring this relationship, the research aims to contribute to the development of better practices for housing and caring for laboratory animals, ultimately enhancing their welfare and research outcomes. The objectives of the study include evaluating the effects of different types of environmental enrichment on the behavior of laboratory mice, assessing changes in physiological parameters related to stress and welfare, and identifying best practices for implementing enrichment strategies in laboratory animal facilities. The study acknowledges certain limitations, such as the potential variability in individual responses to enrichment and the challenges of measuring subjective aspects of animal behavior and welfare. However, by carefully designing the research methodology and data analysis, these limitations will be addressed to ensure the validity and reliability of the study findings. The scope of the study will focus on laboratory mice as the primary animal model, examining a range of environmental enrichment strategies such as social housing, environmental complexity, and cognitive stimulation. By studying these specific interventions, the research aims to provide practical recommendations for improving the well-being of laboratory mice in research settings. The significance of the study lies in its potential to advance understanding of how environmental enrichment can positively impact the behavior and welfare of laboratory mice. By demonstrating the benefits of enrichment strategies, the research can inform and influence animal care practices in research institutions, leading to better welfare standards for laboratory animals. The structure of the thesis will follow a systematic approach, with a comprehensive literature review exploring existing research on environmental enrichment and animal welfare, a detailed methodology section outlining research procedures and data collection methods, an in-depth discussion of findings analyzing the results and implications, and a conclusion summarizing key findings and suggesting future research directions. In conclusion, the project "Exploring the Impact of Environmental Enrichment on Behavior and Welfare of Laboratory Mice" seeks to contribute to the growing body of knowledge on animal welfare and enrichment practices. Through rigorous research and analysis, this study aims to provide valuable insights that can enhance the well-being of laboratory mice and promote ethical and responsible animal research practices.