Rabbits are among the most widely used laboratory animals globally, yet their welfare needs are poorly understood compared to rodents. Improving rabbit welfare in research settings is an important and achievable goal.
Laboratory rabbits face welfare challenges arising from housing conditions that are often poorly matched to their biological needs. Traditional housing in small, barren, individual cages prevents social interaction, normal posture diversity (rabbits need to stand fully upright and run), and expression of natural behaviours including foraging and exploration. Fear and chronic stress from unsuitable environments compromise animal welfare and, paradoxically, the quality of research data. Rabbits housed in enriched, socially compatible pairs show better physiological and behavioural indicators of welfare. Procedures including blood sampling, implant surgeries, and eye testing cause acute pain that requires appropriate analgesia. The hidden nature of rabbit pain — as prey animals they conceal distress — means pain management can be inadequate without careful monitoring.