Rabbits are the third most popular companion animal in many countries, yet they are also among the most frequently surrendered and poorly understood. Meeting their complex needs dramatically improves welfare.
Companion rabbits are among the most welfare-compromised pets in the developed world, largely because their behavioral and health needs are widely misunderstood. Hutch confinement — the traditional housing mode for pet rabbits — deprives these active, running animals of the space they need and can cause significant musculoskeletal disease from inactivity. Inadequate hay intake leads to dental disease that requires specialist veterinary intervention. Social isolation from conspecifics causes chronic stress. Yet these welfare problems are entirely preventable with appropriate knowledge: rabbit-proofed indoor or outdoor runs, bonded pairs, and unrestricted hay access address the most significant welfare deficits. Welfare education at the point of sale — or better, through adoption rather than purchase — is the most impactful upstream intervention.