As Rabbit Awareness Week (22–26 June) has arrived, Direct4Pet is calling on owners to take a fresh look at how they care for one of the UK’s most misunderstood pets.
Despite being the third most popular pet, rabbits remain “arguably the most neglected,” often suffering from poor diets, cramped hutches, and a lack of companionship.
Garry Howard, Director at Direct4Pet, says the week is a vital reminder that rabbits have complex needs that go far beyond a bowl of pellets and a small wooden hutch.
“Rabbits are athletic, intelligent animals. They deserve environments and care routines that reflect that”
The 5 Welfare Needs every rabbit owner must know
1. Diet: Hay, hay, and more hay A healthy rabbit diet should be 85–90% high‑quality hay or grass, with fresh greens making up 10% and pellets just 5%. “A rabbit should eat its bodyweight in hay every day,” says Garry. Brands such as Natures Own, Burgess Excel and HayDay offer varieties to keep digestion and dental health on track.
2. Environment: “A hutch is not enough!” Rabbits need space — at least 3m x 2m x 1m, plus 24/7 access to a secure run, according to RSPCA guidance. Without room to run, dig and stretch, rabbits can develop stress, obesity and behavioural issues.
3. Companionship: Never keep rabbits alone Rabbits are highly social and should be kept in bonded pairs or small groups — never with guinea pigs.
4. Behaviour: Enrichment isn’t optional From dig boxes and tunnels to chew toys and foraging feeders, rabbits need daily mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom, frustration and destructive behaviour.
5. Health & Vet Care: Prevention saves lives Routine check‑ups, vaccinations for Myxomatosis and RHD, neutering, and daily health checks are essential. During RAW, many vet practices offer free resources and health clinics.
Direct4Pet: Supporting rabbit owners with vet‑approved essentials
As an RCVS‑registered veterinary pharmacy and pet‑care retailer, Direct4Pet offers a full range of rabbit essentials, from prescription medicine As an RCVS‑registered veterinary pharmacy and pet‑care retailer, Direct4Pet offers a full range of rabbit essentials, from prescription medicines and supplements to hay, enrichment toys and housing accessories, all overseen by qualified veterinary professionals.
“Rabbit Awareness Week is more than a campaign, it’s a movement to improve their lives” concludes Garry.
For more information, visit www.direct4pet.co.uk