Rabbits 'suffering in silence' - SSPCA
One of the most common reasons for giving up a rabbit is that the children in the family have grown bored of them.
Scotland's leading animal rescue charity has warned that pet rabbits are 'suffering in silence', with many being abandoned or kept in poor conditions.
An estimated 1.7 million rabbits are kept in the UK, making them the nation's third most popular pet. Despite this, they are also said to be one of the most neglected and poorly understood by owners.
The Scottish SPCA says it rescued a 'staggering' 728 rabbits in 2014. This year, the charity has already taken in 550.
Chief superintendent Mike Flynn said: "One of the most common excuses we hear is that the children in the family, who asked for the rabbit in the first place, have become fed up now that the novelty of the new pet has worn off."
Another reason given is that the owner doesn't have time to look after the pet.
A major concern is that rabbits are being left alone in hutches without any interaction except for brief visits when the owner brings food and water.
"Many of the rabbits who arrive in our care aren't used to being handled," Mr Flynn explained. "It takes a lot of time and patience for us to gain their trust."
Similar concerns were raised earlier this year when a survey of rabbit owners by the University of Bristol came back with some troubling statistics.
Out of the 1,254 owners who took part, more than 60 per cent said their rabbits were not calm when they handled them, while 58 per cent showed fear at loud noises.
Furthermore, 60 per cent were kept alone and around a quarter of the rabbits who were kept with a companion were said to fight with or avoid one another sometimes.
Concerns were far-reaching, however, and included a number of other issues, such as poor diets, irregular or inappropriate exercise and health issues.
During Rabbit Awareness Week (10-16 August), the Scottish SPCA is taking the opportunity to appeal to loving owners to rescue a rabbit.
Mr Flynn said: "Anyone thinking of taking on a rabbit is encouraged to get in touch once they have done their research and ensured they have the time, commitment and financial ability to provide these wonderful pets with a happy and healthy life."
Two independent vets have launched a podcast to help owners strengthen their bond with pets. Dr Maggie Roberts and Dr Vanessa Howie, who have worked in both veterinary practice and major charities, are keen to use their experience to enable people to give pets a better life.
