Rabbits are among the most misunderstood companion animals. Their complex behavioral needs for space, social companionship, and environmental enrichment are routinely undermet in traditional hutch housing.
The traditional image of a single rabbit in a small hutch represents a profound welfare failure. Rabbits are curious, social, and athletic animals whose needs cannot be met in confined spaces. The commonality of dental disease, obesity, behavioral problems, and shortened lifespans in companion rabbits reflects widespread inadequate care rather than inherent rabbit fragility. Evidence-based housing standards, properly communicated to prospective owners before acquisition, could transform welfare outcomes across this species.