Rabbits are the third most popular companion animal in the UK but are also among the most poorly housed. Outdated hutch standards fail to meet their basic behavioural and welfare needs.
Rabbits confined in small hutches cannot perform natural behaviours including binkying, running, and social grooming. Restriction of movement leads to muscle weakness, obesity, and skeletal problems. Dental disease, the most common veterinary presentation in rabbits, is worsened by inappropriate diets and stress. Rabbits are prey species that experience significant anxiety when unable to flee, particularly when handled frequently against their will. Solitary rabbits without companionship exhibit chronic social frustration.