Enhancing Rodent Welfare, Cost Savings, and Efficiency: Implementation and Review of Data-Driven Improvements

At the University of Chicago, we have implemented multiple practical, data-driven 3Rs (replacement, reduction, refinement) strategies to improve rodent welfare over the past 5 years. As there are limited publications that outline an institutional approach, this work reviews the enhancements in animal welfare and operational practices implemented in our rodent program, offering a resource and reference for other institutions. These measures encompass the use of environmental health monitoring for both colony and quarantine surveillance and housing modifications, as well as advancements in enrichment, including nesting and structural options, adoption of mouse-preferred bedding substrate, and housing room temperature modifications to better support the thermoregulatory needs of the mice. In addition, we implemented cage change modifications, which include a scent transfer and reduced cage change frequency. Finally, the use of animal handling improvements at our institution includes refined handling techniques and transport cart modifications. Ultimately, we have been successful at improving animal welfare while also implementing cost savings and efficiency improvements.