Rabbit farming is a significant but largely invisible sector of European meat production, with welfare standards far below those applied to more scrutinized species.
Rabbit farming welfare is one of the most neglected areas of farm animal welfare policy. Rabbits kept in wire battery cages cannot express any of their natural behaviors: running at high speed, jumping, digging, or social interaction. They are prone to bone fractures from wire flooring and develop spinal injuries from inability to move. Despite being sensitive animals with high behavioral needs, rabbits in farming systems receive less regulatory protection than poultry. A European Citizens Initiative for rabbit welfare legislation has been submitted, marking the beginning of policy reform pressure.