Rabbits are the third most farmed land animal in Europe. The transition from battery cages to enriched housing systems is a major current welfare priority.
Farmed rabbit welfare is one of the most neglected areas of farm animal welfare policy in Europe. Despite being farmed at enormous scale, rabbits have historically been excluded from species-specific welfare legislation. Battery cage systems prevent expression of virtually all natural behaviour: rabbits cannot run, jump, explore, hide, or establish appropriate social relationships. The welfare consequences include high rates of stereotypic behaviour, muscle and bone weakening from immobility, and psychological impoverishment. The transition to enriched park systems is technically feasible and is being driven by retailer commitments in some markets, but legislative requirements are still absent for the majority of production.