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. 2013 Oct;42(10):385-9.
doi: 10.1038/laban.361.

Conditioning laboratory cats to handling and transport

Margaret E Gruen  1 , Andrea E Thomson, Gillian P Clary, Alexandra K Hamilton, Lola C Hudson, Rick B Meeker, Barbara L Sherman
Affiliations

Conditioning laboratory cats to handling and transport

Margaret E Gruen et al. Lab Anim (NY). 2013 Oct.

Abstract

As research subjects, cats have contributed substantially to our understanding of biological systems, from the development of mammalian visual pathways to the pathophysiology of feline immunodeficiency virus as a model for human immunodeficiency virus. Few studies have evaluated humane methods for managing cats in laboratory animal facilities, however, in order to reduce fear responses and improve their welfare. The authors describe a behavioral protocol used in their laboratory to condition cats to handling and transport. Such behavioral conditioning benefits the welfare of the cats, the safety of animal technicians and the quality of feline research data.

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Figures

FIGURE 1
FIGURE 1
Cats will willingly approach the research technicians as they come close to the enclosure.
FIGURE 2
FIGURE 2
Cats willingly enter their carriers for small food treats.
FIGURE 3
FIGURE 3
Cats begin to tolerate having the door of the cat carrier closed and being transported in a carrier from room to room.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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