Rabbits are among the most popular pets in the world, but they are also among the most abused and neglected. According to the Humane Society of the United States, rabbits are the third most common animal to be surrendered to shelters, after cats and dogs.

Many people buy rabbits on impulse, without doing proper research on their needs and care. They may keep them in small cages, feed them inappropriate diets, neglect their veterinary care, or abandon them when they lose interest.

Rabbits are also victims of animal cruelty in other ways. They are often used for testing cosmetics, household products, and medical devices, despite the availability of alternative methods. They are also exploited for their fur and meat, in industries that subject them to horrific conditions and painful deaths. Some people also hunt, trap, or poison wild rabbits, or harm them for fun or sport.

Animal cruelty laws are supposed to protect rabbits from these forms of abuse and neglect, but they are often ineffective or poorly enforced. One of the main challenges is that rabbits are classified as “livestock” or “game” animals in many jurisdictions, which means they are exempt from the same protections as companion animals. Even when they are considered pets, they may not receive the same attention or resources as dogs and cats from law enforcement or animal welfare agencies.

Another challenge is that many people are unaware of or indifferent to the suffering of rabbits. They may not recognize the signs of distress or illness in rabbits, or they may think that rabbits are disposable or replaceable.

They may also lack empathy or compassion for rabbits, due to cultural norms or biases. Some people may even deliberately harm rabbits, because they view them as pests, nuisances, or targets.

To address these challenges, we need to raise awareness and education about the needs and welfare of rabbits, both as pets and as sentient beings. We need to advocate for stronger and more consistent animal cruelty laws that include rabbits in their scope and enforcement.

We need to support the efforts of animal rescue groups and shelters that provide care and adoption services for rabbits. And we need to foster a culture of respect and kindness for all animals, especially those who are often overlooked or marginalized.