Pet rabbits should always be sold in pairs to stop them from feeling lonely and depressed, vets have warned.
The British Veterinary Association (BVA) is calling on the government to put an end to rabbits being sold individually, after new research discovered 42% of the sociable creatures are sold on their own — and, as a result, regularly suffer from loneliness.
While rabbits are the UK's third most popular pet (particularly with children), sad research found many of them are living in total isolation, often in a small enclosures.
The BVA said that "ministers must encourage owners to buy rabbits in compatible pairs or groups in pet vending legislation," reports the Daily Mail. The charity's president, Daniella Dos Santos, explained that it is a "big concern" that rabbits in the UK live on their own without any other animal contact.
"Whether they are outside or inside, pet rabbits are highly sociable animals and benefit from buddying up with a suitable companion, so it's a big concern that so many in the UK still live alone.
"It's important to acknowledge the significance of companionship and adequate housing space to keep rabbits happy and healthy."
What to Read Next
Some of the ways you can identify loneliness in a rabbit include...
- Sleeping more than usual
- Hiding away
- Pulling out their own fur
Sociable rabbits need interaction and attention. Growing up in burrows with their close-knit families, they are used to being raised in large groups. With pet shops selling singular rabbits, many of the fluffy animals have little to no interaction throughout the day.
Much like other pets, rabbits too love to spend time with their owners. Whether it's running around on a grassy patch or being fed their favourite snack, it's vital these small creatures get the care and attention they need.
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8 of the best dog subscription boxes to treat your pet
Home-cooked food box, from £1.60 a day, Butternut Box
Order delicious home-cooked meals for your dog with Butternut's easy delivery service, perfect for busy owners. It's not only vet-approved, but the team will make exactly what you request. Your dog will thank you.
Pet health box, £7.99 per month, Protect My Pet
Protect your pets against flees, ticks and worms with this specially tailored package. Enter details about your animals and the vets at Protect My Pet will find the perfect products for you. Taking care of your pet has never been easier.
Toys and food box, from £12, Woof Box
Whether you choose the monthly treat bags or jam-packed boxes, your furry friend will be wagging his tail with joy when these arrive. Inside, you'll find playful toys, healthy treats and even blankets for colder months. Woof Box really do think of everything.
Organic food and toys box, from £17.99 a month, Buster Box
Each box comes with healthy organic snacks, fun toys and things that will help your dog's development. The team at Buster Box will even deliver the boxes to less fortunate dogs at shelters during the Christmas period, ensuring no one misses out.
Treat box, from £9.99, Dog Treats
Each month, as these boxes arrive at your home, you'll get a boxed filled with pure doggy delight. From the latest treats, to grooming care, watch your pup get filled with excitement as they try the lastest goodies.
Toy and snack box, £19.99 a month, The Happy Pup
This box really will make your dog a happy pup. Filled with a generous selection of soft chew toys, snacks, meals and games they can play with their owner, this will bring joy to all. Order 'The Happy Box' — our personal favourite.
Food and pet care box, from £9.95, Paw Post
These eco-friendly and natural boxes will put the health of your dog first. Once you've filled in the details of your dog, they will ensure your boxes are tailored to suit their needs. You can choose from one month plans, right up to yearly ones if that's what suits you best.
Treats and toys box, from £9.95, Pawsome
Each Pawesome box is tailored to your dog's needs, looking and their type, size and shape. From brilliant toys, to packets of yummy treats, each box is made with love.
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
