Pet rabbits are the third most popular companion animal in the UK but are among the most commonly mistreated, with welfare problems stemming from widespread misconceptions about their needs.
Most commercially sold rabbit housing is far too small, providing less than 10% of the space rabbits need. Solitary housing, inadequate hay, and small cages are the most common welfare failures in rabbit keeping. The welfare of pet rabbits has been neglected relative to cats and dogs despite substantial evidence of widespread suffering. Education campaigns and improved product labelling are needed to raise welfare standards across the sector.