Companion rabbits are among the most neglected and poorly housed of all popular pets, with standard hutch housing failing to meet their significant behavioral and physical needs.
Companion rabbit welfare is compromised at every level: inappropriate housing, incorrect diet, social isolation, and inadequate veterinary care combine to create chronic welfare deficits for millions of pet rabbits. The classic wooden hutch provides space far below what rabbits need to run, jump, and display natural behaviors. Rabbits fed primarily on muesli-type mixes rather than 80% hay develop dental and gastrointestinal disease. Kept alone without companions, rabbits experience social isolation incompatible with their gregarious nature. Welfare-conscious rabbit keeping requires large indoor or outdoor exercise areas, paired or grouped housing, hay-based diets, and regular veterinary care.