Table 1 Various training methods for rodents in refinement efforts, highlighting their descriptions and corresponding research references

Positive Reinforcement

Utilizing positive reinforcement such as food rewards, enrichment materials, or social interactions establishes a favorable connection with the experimental environment, motivating rodents to engage willingly

[30]

Habituation and Desensitization

Gradual exposure to handling procedures and equipment to acclimate rodents to potentially stressful stimuli, reducing stress responses and improving compliance over time.

[31]

Enrichment-Based Training

Integrates enrichment activities into training sessions to provide mental stimulation and promote positive associations with handling, such as maze navigation for food rewards.

[32]

Virtual Reality Training

Utilizes VR simulations to familiarize rodents with handling procedures in a controlled environment, reducing stress responses and increasing cooperation during subsequent sessions.

[33]

Tailored Training Protocols

Customizes training plans to individual animal preferences and behavioral tendencies, optimizing outcomes by adapting to unique needs such as tactile or auditory preferences.

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