Rabbits are the third most farmed mammal in Europe, yet welfare standards lag far behind those for pigs and poultry. Their welfare needs are increasingly recognized in science and policy.
Farmed rabbit welfare is severely compromised in conventional battery systems. These are active, social animals that need to run, jump, dig, and interact — behaviors entirely prevented in standard wire cages. The result is chronic frustration and stereotypic behavior indicative of psychological suffering. Physical health is also affected: wire flooring causes painful sore hocks; inadequate space causes skeletal problems from postural restriction; and stress suppresses immune function, promoting disease. Park system housing — larger group enclosures with elevated platforms, nesting areas, and enrichment — provides dramatically better welfare outcomes. Consumer awareness of farmed rabbit welfare is lower than for pigs and chickens, despite comparable suffering levels at scale.