As rabbit enthusiasts across the globe mark International Rabbit Day 2023, the RSPCA has released a pressing message.
The charity is urging prospective pet owners to consider rehoming one of the hundreds of unwanted bunnies currently in their care.
Surge in unwanted pets
Across the country RSPCA has reported a concerning rise in abandoned and unwanted pets.
Several factors are believed to be contributing to this issue.
The ongoing cost-of-living crisis has placed a strain on many pet owners, leading some to abandon their pets.
Moreover, owners are often taken aback by the unexpected consequences of pet overbreeding.
Rehoming rates take a hit
The challenge doesn’t end with the increase in the number of unwanted rabbits.
RSPCA branches, as well as their national animal and wildlife centres, are grappling with declining rehoming rates.
From 2019 to 2022, there has been a significant 23 per cent decrease in the number of rabbits rehomed by local branches.
Furthermore, the RSPCA’s national animal centres have witnessed a staggering 42 per cent fall in rehoming over a similar period.
Increasing intake, declining space
In 2022, the charity experienced a 48 per cent increase in the number of rabbits entering their care.
Statistics reveal that 1,090 rabbits were welcomed at animal centres and another 1,942 were rescued by RSPCA branches.
This increase has resulted in many RSPCA centres reaching full capacity, with some unable to accommodate any more rabbits.
Importance of proper rabbit care
International Rabbit Day, celebrated this year on Saturday, 23rd September, aims to highlight the welfare needs of rabbits.
It promotes the creation of comfortable and suitable environments for these animals.
Owners are reminded of the importance of providing adequate housing that caters to their pets’ behavioural needs.
This includes ensuring ample space for shelter and encouraging exercise, while also providing a variety of enrichment toys.
Challenges of overbreeding
Missexed pairs being sold have further compounded the problem of overbreeding.
Dr Jane Tyson, the RSPCA’s rabbit welfare expert, emphasised the rapid reproductive capabilities of rabbits.
She highlighted,
“Rabbits can reproduce at a very young age and many people don’t realise rabbits can get pregnant again within just a couple of hours of giving birth.”
She added that unsuspecting owners can find themselves quickly overwhelmed with animals.
It’s vital, she points out, to accurately determine the sex of rabbits and ensure they are neutered at the appropriate age.
For owners uncertain about their rabbits’ sex or considering neutering, Dr Tyson recommends consulting with a veterinarian.
Supporting rabbit welfare
Dr Tyson also mentioned the RSPCA’s challenges in recent years, with an increased intake of unwanted rabbits.
She encourages anyone contemplating bringing rabbits into their life or seeking companions for their existing pets to contact their local RSPCA rescue centre.
The goal? To offer a loving home to some of these animals in need.
Economic strains impact animal welfare
The cost of living crisis remains one of the foremost challenges facing animal welfare today.
The RSPCA is witnessing its repercussions firsthand, with an alarming rise in the number of abandoned animals.
Their Animal Kindness Index has found that a majority of pet owners, around 81 per cent, feel the financial strain of keeping their pets, especially regarding feeding them.
In response to these challenges, the RSPCA is steadfast in its commitment to support pets and their owners.
Cost of Living Hub
The charity has earmarked £1.5 million for crisis measures, introduced a dedicated Cost of Living Hub, and initiated a helpline.
Furthermore, the charity’s pet food bank partnerships continue to grow, offering additional support during these trying times.
Find out more
For those interested in understanding more about rabbit care, the RSPCA’s website serves as a comprehensive resource.
You can find more about how to look after rabbits on the RSPCA’s website.
