Pet rabbits are one of the most poorly understood companion animals — their complex social and dietary needs are frequently misunderstood, leading to inadequate care that causes preventable welfare harm.
Pet rabbit welfare is compromised in the majority of UK and US households by inadequate housing, inappropriate diet, and solitary keeping — all arising from widespread misunderstanding of rabbit needs. A rabbit in a traditional hutch with insufficient space cannot run, jump, or dig — behaviors it is strongly motivated to perform. A rabbit fed primarily pellets rather than hay develops dental disease from insufficient tooth wear and GI problems from inadequate fiber. A solitary rabbit lacks the companionship essential for psychological wellbeing. These welfare problems are widespread, preventable through owner education, and often correctable with relatively simple housing and dietary modifications. Better pre-adoption education and more stringent standards from retailers and rescue organizations could dramatically improve the starting conditions for millions of pet rabbits.