Environmental Enrichment for Laboratory Animals * Commentary: Evalyn F. Segal * Commentary: Joseph S. Spinelli

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Abstract
Prior to the 1960s, many laboratory animals lived in “solitary confinement” in cages that were cramped, bare, and without stimulation. A typical environment might be described as follows: The cage walls are stainless steel bars because they are easy to wash. Floor space is often minimal. The closest conspecific is four feet away on days when no experiments occur. The view consists of four beige walls, fluorescent lights on a white ceiling, and an occasional sighting of another animal that shares the room. Although there is some variation—like solid walls instead of bars or clear plastic instead of stainless steel—the laboratory environment is rather barren.