Farmed Rabbit Welfare: Intensive Systems and Reform 2025

Keywords: rabbit farming welfare, cage welfare rabbits, enriched cage, rabbit behaviour, group housing

Farmed rabbits represent one of the least welfare-regulated livestock species despite global production exceeding 1 million tonnes annually. Conventional battery cage systems allow minimal movement and prevent expression of natural behaviours including hopping, jumping, and burrowing. The European rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is highly motivated to perform these behaviours, and restriction causes chronic stress and stereotypies. Platform (elevated resting area) provision addresses a key behavioural need in enriched cage systems. Group housing in park systems allows more natural behaviour but increases fighting injuries and requires careful management. Research demonstrates enriched systems improve welfare indicators substantially; disease management is the primary barrier to adoption. EU Rabbit Welfare Regulation proposals have been under development since 2020. NGO campaigns targeting retailers have driven voluntary commitments from major European supermarkets to improved rabbit welfare standards.

Key References: EFSA Farmed Rabbit Welfare Opinion 2023; Applied Animal Behaviour Science 2024; Compassion in World Farming Rabbit Report 2024

← Back to Animal Welfare Hub