Rabbits are highly social animals that experience loneliness and psychological distress when kept in isolation, yet millions are housed alone without conspecific companionship.
Keeping rabbits in solitary confinement is one of the most common welfare failures in companion animal care. Rabbits are fundamentally social, evolved to live in groups, and experience genuine loneliness without conspecific companionship. Solitary rabbits often develop destructive behaviors, depression, and health problems associated with chronic stress. Bonded pairs show dramatically improved welfare outcomes. Owner education about rabbit social needs is essential, as is promoting adoption of pairs and providing bonding support for single rabbits.