Rabbit meat production is significant in Europe and Asia, but welfare standards for farmed rabbits lag far behind other livestock species in regulation and public attention.
Farmed rabbit welfare is one of the most neglected areas in European livestock policy. The vast majority of production rabbits are kept in individual wire cages that prevent normal movement, social interaction, and behavioral expression. Chronic stress, skeletal muscle atrophy, and footpad injuries are common consequences. Park housing systems providing group housing with platforms and enrichment are feasible and significantly improve welfare, but adoption is slow.