Fewer animals used in German labs as testing declines 8.2%

Germany’s animal testing drops below two million for the first time in 2024

The number of creatures used in Germany dropped below two million for the first time in 2024. Official figures show a total of 1.95 million animals were used in scientific and medical research, marking an 8.2% decline from the previous year. The reduction reflects a shift towards alternative methods and stricter animal welfare standards.

The decrease was largely driven by a 9% fall in the use of vertebrates and cephalopods, which now total 1.33 million. Rodents remained the most commonly used animals, with mice accounting for 72% and rats for 6%. Fish made up 13% of the total, while rabbits and birds represented 4% and 1%, respectively.

Most experiments (63%) were classified as causing minimal distress to the animals. However, 28.4% involved moderate suffering, and 3.6% were deemed severe. Silvia Breher, the government’s Commissioner for Animal Welfare, highlighted the progress but stressed that the numbers remain too high.

Breher noted that the decline over the past three years shows a growing reliance on alternative research methods. She also called for continued efforts to reduce animal testing further, emphasizing the need for more responsible practices in scientific research.

The 2024 figures confirm a steady downward trend in animal testing for three consecutive years. While alternative methods gain traction, the majority of procedures still involve rodents, with most causing low levels of distress. Authorities have urged researchers to maintain this progress and prioritise non-animal testing where possible.