RSPCA: Pet rabbits should not be prisoners

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Rabbits have long been one of the UK’s favourite pets with owners falling for their cute appearance and believing the common misconception that they are easy to look after.

However, despite their popularity, the RSPCA is inundated with thousands of neglected rabbits every year.

Since the beginning of 2007 over 33,000 rabbits have come into RSPCA animal centres after being collected, rescued or seized by RSPCA inspectors.

In addition, more than 8,000 rabbits have been reported abandoned to the RSPCA since 2007 and a further 3,300 rabbits have been signed over to the charity by owners who can no longer look after them.

RSPCA inspector Tony Woodley said: “Rabbits have long been a popular family pet but people often to not realise that they have complex welfare needs which must be met so they are happy and healthy.

“The RSPCA is left to pick up the pieces when these poor rabbits are neglected or abused. Owners need to realise the level of responsibility owning a pet demands so the number of animals suffering dramatically reduces.”

Since the beginning of 2008, the RSPCA has secured 318 convictions due to rabbit neglect or abuse.

The RSPCA is concerned that the complex needs of rabbits are often poorly understood by owners and believes that this is having a negative impact on animal welfare.

For more information on how to care for your rabbit visit: www.rspca.org.uk/rabbits