Rabbits are among the most misunderstood pets in terms of their needs. Millions are kept in hutches far too small for their welfare, unaware that rabbits need space, company, and environmental complexity to thrive.
Companion rabbit welfare suffers from a fundamental mismatch between public perception and actual needs. Rabbits marketed as easy starter pets require significant daily care, space, companionship, and veterinary attention. Hutch housing that prevents normal movement causes psychological frustration and physical health problems. Rabbits unable to run, jump, and explore develop muscle wastage and reduced bone density. Social isolation causes chronic stress with physiological effects including immune suppression. Many rabbits are kept in conditions that would be considered unacceptable for any other pet species, partly because their stoic concealment of illness prevents owners from recognising welfare problems until they become critical.