Rabbit meat production is large in Europe and Asia but largely unregulated for welfare, with millions of animals kept in wire cages with no ability to perform natural behaviours.
Farmed rabbit welfare is one of the most neglected areas of farm animal protection. Wire cage systems that confine rabbits individually prevent all natural behaviour including hopping, running, burrowing, and social interaction. Wire floors cause painful foot sores. Isolation of social animals causes psychological distress. Enriched park systems that allow group housing, hay provision, and elevated platforms to hide on deliver measurably better welfare outcomes. Consumer awareness of farmed rabbit welfare is generally low, making labelling and advocacy particularly valuable in driving change for this overlooked species.