The traditional small hutch housing for pet rabbits is now recognised as welfare-inadequate; modern guidance requires significantly more space and environmental complexity.
Pet rabbit welfare has historically been poor, with millions of animals kept in housing that prevents them from hopping, standing fully upright, or expressing natural digging and foraging behaviours. The traditional hutch model persists in pet retail despite being incompatible with the welfare needs of an animal that covers several kilometres per day in the wild and requires social company to thrive. Modern welfare guidance from organisations like the Rabbit Welfare Association calls for dramatically larger living spaces, outdoor access, environmental complexity, and social housing. Reform of minimum housing standards for rabbits sold at retail would prevent the worst housing welfare failures at the point of purchase. Consumer education about rabbit needs before acquisition would reduce relinquishment rates from owners who discover too late the commitment required.