Rabbits are the third most farmed animal in Europe but receive far less welfare regulation than other species; conventional wire cage housing fails to meet their fundamental behavioural needs.
Farmed rabbits have historically been among the most welfare-neglected farm animals. Wire battery cages deny them the ability to express almost any natural behaviour — running, jumping, hiding, burrowing, or social interaction with compatible companions. Enriched systems providing elevated resting areas, hiding boxes, gnawing materials, and group housing represent significant welfare improvements achievable within existing farm economics. Consumer and retailer pressure has driven voluntary commitments from some European retailers to transition to higher-welfare rabbit housing systems ahead of regulation.