Commercial rabbit farming for meat production largely takes place in barren wire cages that prevent nearly all natural behavior, representing one of the most welfare-deficient livestock systems.
Commercial rabbit farming in conventional wire cage systems causes profound welfare deprivation affecting billions of animals receiving remarkably little public attention. Rabbits are prey species that mask illness, making welfare assessment reliant on behavioral indicators and physical examination rather than visible distress. The behavioral repertoire that characterizes good rabbit welfare — running, jumping, binkying, burrowing, foraging — is entirely absent in standard cage systems. Wire flooring causes chronic hock sore development and prevents postural comfort. Social deprivation in small cage groups fails to meet social needs. The EU transition away from barren cages represents meaningful progress, though implementation and enforcement quality varies significantly. Consumer awareness of rabbit farming welfare is extremely low compared to awareness of chicken or pig conditions.