Farm Animals

Farmed Rabbit Welfare and Cage Phase-Out in Europe

Rabbits are farmed in intensive cage systems across Europe with poor welfare outcomes. The EU is phasing out battery-style rabbit cages under the European Citizens' Initiative.

Key Facts

Around 300 million rabbits are farmed in Europe annually, mostly in wire cages
Wire floors cause significant hock sores and prevent natural behaviours
EU Citizens' Initiative End the Cage Age achieved regulatory commitment to phase out rabbit cages
Enriched and park system housing shows improved welfare but faces production cost challenges

Welfare Considerations

Rabbit cage farming causes chronic welfare problems including hock sores, inability to run, jump or hide, and high mortality from stress-related disease. The cage phase-out commitment by the EU represents a significant welfare advance.

What You Can Do

Choose rabbit products from certified cage-free systems where available
Support End the Cage Age campaign for full European cage phase-out implementation
Reduce consumption of rabbit products until higher welfare standards are mainstream