Rabbits are the third most farmed animal in Europe yet receive minimal welfare attention. Their complex social and behavioral needs are routinely unmet in conventional production systems.
Rabbits are intelligent, social animals with complex behavioral needs that are almost completely frustrated in conventional wire battery cages. Unable to jump, stand upright, hide, or engage in social grooming, caged rabbits develop stereotypic behaviors and show stress indicators throughout their lives. Colony housing systems that allow movement, social interaction, and hiding opportunities demonstrate that commercial rabbit production is compatible with substantially better welfare. The forthcoming EU ban on barren cages represents a landmark welfare improvement for one of Europe's most consumed yet most neglected farm animals.