Farmed rabbits are among the least-regulated farm animals in Europe and globally, despite strong scientific evidence of poor welfare in conventional cage systems.
Farmed rabbits in conventional wire cages experience severe restrictions on natural movement, particularly the ability to jump, run, and stand upright — behaviors fundamental to rabbit behavioral needs. Chronic stress from inability to express these behaviors manifests as stereotypic behaviors and impaired immune function. Colony housing systems with elevated platforms, hiding areas, and more space produce measurably better welfare outcomes and are gradually being adopted in response to retailer and regulatory pressure.