Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK but among the most poorly cared for; welfare education is the primary intervention needed to address endemic welfare problems in pet rabbit keeping.
Pet rabbit welfare represents a case where widespread welfare harm persists despite good available evidence and active welfare campaigning. The gap between knowledge and practice — owners who know rabbits need space and social contact but keep them in small hutches alone — reflects the entrenchment of traditional keeping practices and commercial incentives selling inadequate housing. Legislative minimum standards and improved retailer responsibility for welfare advice at point of sale are needed alongside continued public education.