EU cage reform for farmed rabbits is gaining momentum, with welfare advocates pushing for enriched systems replacing barren wire cages.
Farmed rabbits in barren wire cages cannot jump, run, or hide - basic behaviours that every rabbit is motivated to perform. The absence of EU-level legislation leaves rabbit welfare entirely to voluntary schemes and national regulations of varying strength. The momentum from laying hen and pig welfare reform provides a model for rabbit welfare improvement. Consumer pressure and corporate commitments are creating change while legislation catches up.