Companion Animals

Rabbit Hutch Size Standards and Reform

Current rabbit hutch sale standards in pet shops bear no relation to minimum welfare requirements, driving a welfare crisis.

Key Facts

The most common hutch size sold for rabbits is 60-90 cm, around half the length of a large rabbit
RSPCA minimum recommendation is 3m x 2m x 1m of combined living and run space
British Rabbit Council and RWAF both consider traditional hutches inhumane
Many European countries have legal minimum space requirements for rabbit housing
Retailers continue to sell inadequate hutches despite welfare guidance from veterinary bodies

Welfare Considerations

The pet retail industry continues to sell rabbit housing that welfare experts and veterinary bodies agree is inhumane. This drives ongoing welfare suffering for millions of rabbits housed in inadequate conditions by owners who believe they are providing appropriate care. Retail standards reform and improved point-of-sale welfare advice are urgently needed.

What You Can Do

Never purchase traditional small rabbit hutches
Provide at minimum a 3m x 2m living space with larger exercise area
Support campaigns for legal minimum rabbit housing standards
Advocate for pet retailers to improve their rabbit housing product ranges
Share information about proper rabbit space requirements with other rabbit owners