Rabbits farmed for meat in intensive systems face severe welfare constraints that alternatives can address.
Farmed rabbit welfare has received far less attention than pig or poultry welfare despite similar welfare concerns. Wire cage systems prevent the burrowing, jumping, and social behavior natural to rabbits. Rabbits in barren cages develop stereotypic behaviors and bone fragility from inactivity. Alternative housing systems — park systems with groups of rabbits on solid flooring with enrichment — are available and increasingly mandated in some European jurisdictions. Transitioning to better rabbit housing is achievable without prohibitive cost increases.