Towards a better use of the rabbit as an experimental model: review and perspectives

Abstract :

The rabbit is an essential model in scientific research, particularly in the study of cardiovascular diseases such as hypertension and atherosclerosis and for the investigation of the osteoarticular system. Due to the fact that various factors (environmental, microbial, stress, pain…) can influence data obtained from experiments, special care must be given to housing conditions. Sensory enrichment (olfactive, auditive, visual or tactile stimuli) and physical enrichment (nutritional and social stimuli) allow rabbits to express specific behaviours and reduce stereotypies. This synthesis reminds of the importance of these factors and gives to the researcher some ways to control them.

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