Welfare challenges in commercial rabbit farming, including cage systems, social needs, and the reforms improving conditions for this widely farmed species.
Farmed rabbit welfare is one of the least-discussed intensive farming welfare issues despite the enormous number of animals involved globally. Conventional barren wire cages prevent virtually all natural behavior — rabbits cannot hop freely, jump, stand fully upright, or engage in social grooming. The behavioral deprivation causes chronic stress, stereotypic behaviors, and physical consequences including hock sores from constant wire contact. Welfare reform in rabbit farming is achievable — enriched systems with appropriate space, platforms, and social grouping provide meaningful behavioral opportunity — but adoption has been slow relative to other species.