Rabbits are the third most popular companion animal in many Western countries, yet they are among the most frequently neglected. Traditional hutch housing fails to meet their complex behavioural, social, and physical needs — a welfare problem rooted in outdated guidance and persistent misconceptions.
The welfare of companion rabbits is severely compromised by outdated guidance that persists in pet shops, starter kits, and public understanding. "A hutch is enough" is a welfare myth: rabbits confined to small hutches develop skeletal muscle atrophy, stereotypies (repetitive bar-chewing or circling), behavioural depression, and obesity. Dental disease — caused by insufficient hay wearing teeth appropriately — causes chronic oral pain that rabbit owners frequently miss because rabbits mask discomfort. The social isolation of single-housed rabbits (who are highly gregarious animals) causes long-term stress. Rabbits are often impulse-purchased for children and then neglected as novelty wanes. Rescue organisations are overwhelmed with surrendered rabbits who have suffered years of inadequate housing.