91998E2247

WRITTEN QUESTION E-2247/98

by Allan Macartney (ARE) to the Commission

(16 July 1998)

Subject: Cat welfare

Is there any EC legislation relating to animal welfare which addresses the breeding cycle of cats bred for laboratory purposes? What minimum "resting" periods are laid down for such animals and what housing conditions are stipulated for their welfare?

Answer given by Mrs Bjerregaard on behalf of the Commission

(1 October 1998)

Directive 86/609/EEC(1) on the protection of animals used for experimental and other scientific purposes sets minimum standards for the housing and care of animals.

Article 5 (a) states that "all experimental animals shall be provided with housing, an environment, at least some freedom of movement, food, water and care which are appropriate to their health and well-being". Article 5 further states that "For the implementation of the provision of paragraphs (a) and (b), Member States shall pay regard to the guidelines set out in Annex II".

Annex II of the Directive gives guidance for the accommodation and care of animals. These include guidelines on cage height, floor space and room temperature by groups of species, one of them being cats. In addition there are general guidelines on physical facilities, environment in the holding rooms and its control, and care of animals including topics such as health, feeding, water, bedding, exercise and handling, cleaning, and humane killing.

The Directive does not contain provisions for breeding cycles. However, Article 15 states that "Breeding and supplying establishments shall be approved by or registered with, the authority and comply with the requirements of Articles 5 and ...". Pursuant to this provision it is the responsibility of the national authorities to determine the criteria which breeding establishments have to meet in order to be approved or registered.

(1) OJ L 358, 18.12.1986.