Rabbits are the third most kept pet in the UK but also among the most neglected — small hutches cause chronic welfare problems through space restriction, isolation, and inability to express natural behaviour.
Traditional small hutch housing fails to meet rabbits' physical and psychological needs. Confined rabbits cannot run, jump, or perform natural exploratory behaviour. Social isolation from other rabbits causes psychological suffering. Modern welfare recommendations require minimum 3 metres of run space, a companion rabbit, and veterinary dental checks at least annually. Many owners are unaware these standards exist.