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Skovlund CR, Forkman B, Lund TB, Mistry BG, Nielsen SS, Sandøe P. Perceptions of the rabbit as a low investment 'starter pet' lead to negative impacts on its welfare: Results of two Danish surveys. Anim Welf 2023; 32:e45. [PMID: 38487438 PMCID: PMC10936283 DOI: 10.1017/awf.2023.41] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/09/2023] [Indexed: 03/17/2024]
Abstract
Concerns over compromised companion rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus) welfare are widespread. The welfare problems have been linked to the perception of rabbits as low investment 'children's pets.' To test this hypothesis and investigate the current conditions for rabbits, data were gathered from two surveys in 2021: a nationally representative survey of Danish companion animal owners (Survey I) and a detailed social media-based survey of Danish rabbit owners (Survey II). Using logistic regression, three owner-related variables (whether a child/adult was responsible for care of the rabbit, owner-opinion on rabbits' suitability as 'starter pets' and willingness-to-pay [WTP] for veterinary treatment) were employed to investigate the effect of rabbit status on owner-provision of selected husbandry conditions. The 76 (Survey I) and 4,335 (Survey II) responses suggested that most rabbits are acquired for children and are solitarily housed, and that many are kept in cages of an unsuitable size and not checked daily. Owners who perceived rabbits as 'starter pets' and with lower WTP were more likely to house rabbits in restricted space and to not provide continuous gnawing opportunities, ad libitum hay or routine healthcare. A child fulfilling the role of the rabbit's main caretaker was also associated with inadequate housing type and fewer gnawing opportunities. Thus, many rabbits live in unsuitable conditions, and owners who perceive rabbits as low investment 'children's pets' are more likely to not provide recommended resources. Changing owners' perceptions of rabbits and promoting suitable husbandry through official education programmes and minimum requirements is important if there are to be improvements made to rabbit welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilie Ravn Skovlund
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 15, 1870Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Björn Forkman
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 15, 1870Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Thomas Bøker Lund
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Belinda Glumsøe Mistry
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 15, 1870Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Søren Saxmose Nielsen
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 15, 1870Frederiksberg C, Denmark
| | - Peter Sandøe
- Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Grønnegårdsvej 15, 1870Frederiksberg C, Denmark
- Department of Food and Resource Economics, Faculty of Science, University of Copenhagen, Rolighedsvej 23, 1958, Frederiksberg C, Denmark
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Rooney NJ, Baker P, Blackwell E, Walker M, Mullan S, Saunders R, Held SD. Run access, hutch size and time-of-day affect welfare-relevant behaviour and faecal corticosterone in pair-housed pet rabbits. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/05/2023]
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Dobos P, Kulik LN, Pongrácz P. The amicable rabbit – interactions between pet rabbits and their caregivers based on a questionnaire survey. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105869] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/16/2023]
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Fetiveau M, Savietto D, Janczak AM, Bannelier C, Plagnet AS, Tauveron M, Fortun-Lamothe L. Time budget of two rabbit genotypes having access to different-sized pasture areas. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2023. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2023.105872] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/19/2023]
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Mee G, Tipton E, Oxley JA, Westgarth C. Owner demographic factors are associated with suitable pet rabbit housing provision in the United Kingdom. Vet Rec 2022; 190:e1736. [PMID: 35661365 DOI: 10.1002/vetr.1736] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2021] [Revised: 03/01/2022] [Accepted: 04/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rabbits are popular pets, but research into their welfare is limited. This study analysed the potential association(s) between the provision of suitable housing and owner demographic factors. METHODS Data from 2017, 2018 and 2019 PDSA Animal Wellbeing (PAW) report surveys gave a sample of 1333 UK rabbit owners. Whether the rabbit housing was adequate or inadequate was ascertained by asking owners to indicate images of hutch and run size or indoor environment type that were similar to their own. The owner demographic factors collected included gender, education, household income and deprivation. Chi-squared tests and binary logistic regression (univariable and multivariable) were used to investigate factors associated with adequate/inadequate housing. RESULTS One-third (31.2%) of rabbits lived in inadequate housing and half were housed alone (51.4%). Male owners were more likely to report providing inadequate housing than females (odds ratio [OR] = 1.795, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.319-2.441, p < 0.001). Compared to owners over 55 years old, those aged 25-34 years were more likely to house their rabbits inadequately (OR = 2.050, 95% CI 1.286-3.267, p = 0.003). Owners with a household income below average were more likely to report providing inadequate housing compared to those with a household income above average (OR = 1.406, 95% CI 1.025-1.928, p = 0.035). CONCLUSION The findings identify that inadequate rabbit housing is provided by owners of all ages, genders and deprivation levels but highlight some particular owner demographics that could be useful to target if resources are limited.
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Affiliation(s)
- Grace Mee
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Emma Tipton
- Veterinary Department, People's Dispensary for Sick Animals (PDSA), Telford, UK
| | - James A Oxley
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
| | - Carri Westgarth
- Institute of Infection, Veterinary and Ecological Sciences, University of Liverpool, Neston, UK
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Bläske A, Schwarzer A, Ebner MV, Gerbig H, Reese S, Erhard M, Wöhr AC. Evaluation of small mammal pet supplies offered in German retail under animal welfare aspects. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0262658. [PMID: 35108305 PMCID: PMC8809526 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0262658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
German retailers offer a large variety of accessories for pets. However, not all products are suitable for pet husbandry. Several articles can negatively influence the wellbeing of pets or cause injuries, but empirical studies that evaluate accessories for small pets under animal welfare aspects are rare. In the present study, we assessed articles manufactured or sold in Germany in the product categories pet cages, hay racks, running wheels, exercise balls, harnesses and leashes, tube systems, and hamster bedding. To do so, we searched 28 German websites, visited 50 pet shops and 13 home improvement and garden centers on site and afterwards examined the animal welfare compliance of the products according to various evaluation criteria. Most of the examined products were rated not suitable for pet husbandry and were animal-welfare-adverse. This result applies to 86.1% (n = 87) of the 101 assessed running wheel models, 82.7% (n = 172) of the 208 assessed pet cage models and 55.6% (n = 40) of the 72 assessed hay rack models. The articles in the product categories exercise balls, harnesses and leashes, tube systems, and hamster bedding were also found unsuitable due to animal welfare concerns. Furthermore, we found clear shortcomings regarding article declarations. In some cases, relevant product information (e.g., dimensions) were missing, or the presented information was too general (e.g., rodent cage). Improperly declared pet accessories make it difficult for pet owners to decide whether a product is suitable or unsuitable for the species they keep. A declaration duty for manufacturers of pet products could ensure that German retailers only offer properly declared pet accessories and facilitate the decision for pet owners to purchase products appropriate for the pets they keep. Furthermore, a voluntary product certification for manufacturers would allow retailers to check the animal welfare compliance of articles before including them in their assortment. If a product is unsuitable for pet husbandry because it does not meet the set requirements, it must be considered animal-welfare-adverse and removed from the assortment. As done for the Austrian “animal welfare label,” an independent, qualified third party could do the certification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Bläske
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour, Animal Hygiene and Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
- * E-mail:
| | - Angela Schwarzer
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour, Animal Hygiene and Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Magdalena V. Ebner
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour, Animal Hygiene and Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Hendrikje Gerbig
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour, Animal Hygiene and Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Sven Reese
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Anatomy, Histology and Embryology, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Michael Erhard
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour, Animal Hygiene and Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Anna-Caroline Wöhr
- Department of Veterinary Sciences, Chair of Animal Welfare, Animal Behaviour, Animal Hygiene and Animal Husbandry, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine, LMU Munich, Munich, Germany
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Huang Y, Bréda J, Savietto D, Debrusse AM, Bonnemère JM, Gidenne T, Combes S, Fortun-Lamothe L. Effect of housing enrichment and type of flooring on the performance and behaviour of female rabbits. WORLD RABBIT SCIENCE 2021. [DOI: 10.4995/wrs.2021.15848] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
This study investigated the effect of housing enrichments (scratching card, gnawing material and a platform), of a change in height and in the type of flooring on the live weight, reproductive performance and behaviour of female rabbits, as well as on the feed intake and spatial distribution of females and their kits. A total of 40 multiparous female rabbits were monitored in three consecutive reproductive cycles (48-d intervals). Four days before parturition in each reproductive cycle, the females were randomly assigned to one of the five types of housing: Control (CNT: 102×47×30 cm, L×W× H); Scratching card (SCT: containing a scratching card); Gnawing materials (GNW: CNT dimensions plus a compressed lucerne hay block and a wooden stick); Platform (PLT: 102×47×60 cm, including a platform with a plastic floor) and Combination (CBN: PLT dimensions with the scratching card, the gnawing materials and a platform). Data were only recorded during the first and third reproductive cycles. The living conditions did not significantly alter the females’ live weight (4889 g at housing; 4890 g at mid-lactation; 4867 g at weaning), reproductive performance (9.0 kits born alive), survival of the kits (90%), nor the feed intake of females and their litters (542 g/day). Providing animals with a gnawing block stimulated Gnawing behaviour (median frequency per group: CTL=0.00, SCT=0.00, GNW=4.69, PLT=0.00, and CBN=2.34; PRearing up behaviour (median frequencies per group: CTL=0.00, SCT=0.00, GNW=0.00, PLT=2.08, and CBN=3.12; P=0.06), and when a platform was present, the rabbits used it (mean values per group: CTL=0.00, SCT=0.00, GNW=0.00, PLT=1.79, and CBN=4.91; P=0.003). Regarding the type of floor, females appeared to prefer the plastic mesh flooring (31.2%) to the wire mesh flooring (18.8%). To sum up, providing female rabbits with simple enrichments appears to stimulate specific behaviours like Gnawing and Rearing up and may contribute to their wellbeing.
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Hoehfurtner T, Wilkinson A, Walker M, Burman O. Does enclosure size influence the behaviour & welfare of captive snakes (Pantherophis guttatus)? Appl Anim Behav Sci 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2021.105435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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10
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Managing the Health of Captive Herds of Exotic Companion Mammals. Vet Clin North Am Exot Anim Pract 2021; 24:547-566. [PMID: 34366010 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvex.2021.05.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Common medical problems diagnosed and treated in individual companion exotic mammals are relevant in a herd-health setting. Many of these problems are often associated with poor husbandry and/or inappropriate nutrition. Rabbits, ferrets, chinchillas, and rodents have been domesticated alongside humans and an understanding of their ethology gives veterinarians a base knowledge in making recommendations for animals in their care. This article briefly reviews the ethology and husbandry in such species, but detailed needs are beyond the scope of this article.
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Taghouti M, García J, Ibáñez MA, Macchiavelli RE, Nicodemus N. Relationship between Body Chemical Composition and Reproductive Traits in Rabbit Does. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11082299. [PMID: 34438759 PMCID: PMC8388528 DOI: 10.3390/ani11082299] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Simple Summary At the beginning of the productive life of rabbit does, there must be a balance between ensuring at least a minimal degree of bodily development to guarantee a successful reproductive life, and the minimization of the unproductive rearing period, but nowadays there is no clear recommendation about the optimal moment for the first artificial insemination (AI). A better body condition at the first AI (higher body protein, fat and energy), that indicates a higher degree of maturity of the rabbit doe, did not influence fertility at the first AI (that is usually very high), but improved it at the second AI (that is usually lower than the first one). The percentage of kits born alive at the first and at the second AI also were positively influenced by the body protein content at the first AI. We can conclude that the degree of maturity at the first AI is a key point to optimize the does reproductive success, with body fat and body protein content being relevant factors. Abstract The relationship among live weight, chemical body composition and energy content (at artificial insemination (AI) and three days before parturition), estimated by bioelectrical impedance with fertility rates and the percentage of kits born alive, was studied during the first three AI. The first AI was conducted at 16 weeks of age in 137 rabbit does that weighted 3.91 ± 0.46 kg. Their body chemical composition was 17.4 ± 0.50%, 16.1 ± 2.6%, 1067 ± 219 kJ/100 g body weight, for protein, fat and energy, respectively. An increase in body protein, fat and energy content at the first AI did not affect fertility at the first AI but improved it at the second AI (p ≤ 0.030). Moreover, an increase in body fat and energy content at the second AI improved fertility at the second AI (p ≤ 0.001). Fertility at the third AI was positively influenced by body protein at the third AI and the increase in body protein and fat between the second parturition and the third AI (p ≤ 0.030). The percentage of kits born alive at the first and at the second AI improved with the increase in body protein at the first AI (p ≤ 0.040). In conclusion, a minimal body protein and fat content is required at the first AI to optimize the reproductive performance in young does.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meriem Taghouti
- FeedInov CoLab, Integrated Production Systems, Quinta da Fonte Boa, 2005-048 Santarém, Portugal;
| | - Javier García
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Agroalimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Senda del Rey 18, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Miguel A. Ibáñez
- Departamento de Economía Agraria, Estadística y Gestión de Empresas, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Agroalimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Senda del Rey 18, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
| | - Raúl E. Macchiavelli
- Colegio de Ciencias Agrícolas, Universidad de Puerto Rico, Mayagüez 00681-9000, Puerto Rico;
| | - Nuria Nicodemus
- Departamento de Producción Agraria, Escuela Técnica Superior de Ingeniería Agronómica, Agroalimentaria y de Biosistemas, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, C/Senda del Rey 18, 28040 Madrid, Spain;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-9106-71072
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Evaluation of a Configurable, Mobile and Modular Floor-Pen System for Group-Housing of Laboratory Rabbits. Animals (Basel) 2021; 11:ani11040977. [PMID: 33915697 PMCID: PMC8066506 DOI: 10.3390/ani11040977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2021] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The major responsibility of researchers and laboratory animal facilities is to ensure animal well-being during the time of acclimatization, experiments, and recovery. In this context, animal housing conditions are of utmost importance. Here, we implemented a mobile and modular floor-pen housing system for laboratory rabbits that combines rabbits' natural behavioral requirements and the high hygiene standards needed in biomedical science. Twelve female New Zealand White (NZW) rabbits were single- or group-housed for 12 months in mobile and modular floor-pens. Their general health status was evaluated at the end of the experimental setup. Further, we performed behavioral analysis of six additional NZW females group-housed for eight weeks in pens of two different sizes. We show that our improved housing concept supported species-specific behavioral patterns. Taken together, our housing system provides an optimal setup for rabbits in animal facilities that combines strict requirements for animal experiments with animal welfare.
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Taylor CL, Lydecker HW, Lo N, Hochuli DF, Banks PB. Invasive rabbits host immature Ixodes ticks at the urban-forest interface. Ticks Tick Borne Dis 2020; 11:101439. [PMID: 32295737 DOI: 10.1016/j.ttbdis.2020.101439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2019] [Revised: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 04/02/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Introduced wildlife may be important alternative hosts for generalist ticks that cause health issues for humans and companion animals in urban areas, but to date are rarely considered as part of the tick-host community compared to native wildlife. In Australia, European rabbits, Oryctolagus cuniculus, are a widespread and abundant invasive species common to a range of human-modified ecosystems. To understand the potential role of rabbits in the life cycle of Australian ticks, we investigated the seasonal abundance of all tick life stages (larva, nymph, and adult) on rabbits collected from pest control programs in two urban forest remnants in Sydney, Australia. We also recorded whether larvae, nymphs, and adults were attached to the head, body, or limbs of rabbits to reveal patterns of tick attachment. Of the 2426 Ixodes ticks collected from 42 rabbits, larvae were by far the most abundant life stage (2360), peaking in abundance in autumn, while small numbers of nymphs (62) and adults (4) were present in winter and summer respectively. Larvae were found all over the body, whereas adults and nymphs were predominantly attached to the head, suggesting that the mature life stages use the host landscape differently, or that adults or nymphs may be groomed off the body. The most abundant tick species, as determined by morphology and DNA sequencing, was Ixodes holocyclus, a generalist tick responsible for significant human and companion animal health concerns in Australia. Our findings highlight the importance of understanding the role of introduced wildlife in tick dynamics particularly in novel ecosystems where non-native hosts may be more abundant than native hosts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Casey L Taylor
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia.
| | - Henry W Lydecker
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia; Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Disease and Biosecurity, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Nathan Lo
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Dieter F Hochuli
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
| | - Peter B Banks
- School of Life and Environmental Sciences, The University of Sydney, Camperdown, Australia
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15
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Affiliation(s)
- Alison P Wills
- Department of Animal and Agriculture, Hartpury University, Gloucester, UK
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Harrup AJ, Rooney N. Current welfare state of pet guinea pigs in the UK. Vet Rec 2020; 186:282. [PMID: 32054719 DOI: 10.1136/vr.105632] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2019] [Revised: 11/18/2019] [Accepted: 12/31/2019] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Little research has been carried out into how guinea pigs are cared for in the UK, and information regarding potential welfare issues is sparse. This study was designed to examine the five welfare needs, collecting data on the extent to which these are each met by a sample of UK guinea pig owners. METHODS A survey of 4590 owners was conducted. RESULTS Guinea pigs were housed in a variety of ways, but a hutch or cage, with no attached run, was the most common enclosure. The majority reportedly lived with a conspecific, although some lived on their own, or with a rabbit. Significant associations between aspects of housing and husbandry, and behaviour and health were found, for example, the frequency of positive behaviours displayed was higher in those guinea pigs housed with a conspecific and those in larger enclosures, while the number of reported health issues was lower in animals receiving green vegetables more often. CONCLUSION This study has identified common practices, and highlighted some potential welfare issues, which would benefit from further research. The authors suggest improved availability of targeted information may enable owners to improve issues identified here.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Nicola Rooney
- Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, Bristol Veterinary School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
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Saxmose Nielsen S, Alvarez J, Bicout DJ, Calistri P, Depner K, Drewe JA, Garin-Bastuji B, Gonzales Rojas JL, Gortázar Schmidt C, Michel V, Miranda Chueca MÁ, Roberts HC, Sihvonen LH, Spoolder H, Stahl K, Velarde Calvo A, Viltrop A, Buijs S, Edwards S, Candiani D, Mosbach-Schulz O, Van der Stede Y, Winckler C. Health and welfare of rabbits farmed in different production systems. EFSA J 2020; 18:e05944. [PMID: 32626497 PMCID: PMC7008839 DOI: 10.2903/j.efsa.2020.5944] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
The AGRI committee of the European Parliament requested EFSA to assess the welfare of rabbits farmed in different production systems, including organic production, and to update its 2005 scientific opinion about the health and welfare of rabbits kept for meat production. Considering reproducing does, kits and growing rabbits, this scientific opinion focusses on six different housing systems, namely conventional cages, structurally enriched cages, elevated pens, floor pens, outdoor/partially outdoor systems and organic systems. To compare the level of welfare in the different housing systems and rabbit categories, welfare impact scores for 20 welfare consequences identified from the literature were calculated, taking their occurrence, duration and severity into account. Based on the overall welfare impact score (sum of scores for the single welfare consequences), obtained via a 2‐step expert knowledge elicitation process, the welfare of reproducing does is likely (certainty 66–90%) to be lower in conventional cages compared to the five other housing systems. In addition, it is likely to extremely likely (certainty 66–99%) that the welfare of kits is lower in outdoor systems compared to the other systems and that the welfare is higher in elevated pens than in the other systems. Finally, it is likely to extremely likely (certainty 66–99%) that the welfare of growing rabbits is lower in conventional cages compared to the other systems and that the welfare is higher in elevated pens than in the other systems. Ranking of the welfare consequences allowed an analysis of the main welfare consequences within each system and rabbit category. It was concluded that for reproducing does, as well as growing rabbits, welfare consequences related to behavioural restrictions were more prominent in conventional cages, elevated pens and enriched cages, whereas those related to health problems were more important in floor pens, outdoor and organic systems. Housing in organic rabbit farming is diverse, which can result in different welfare consequences, but the overall welfare impact scores suggest that welfare in organic systems is generally good.
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Rioja-Lang F, Bacon H, Connor M, Dwyer CM. Rabbit welfare: determining priority welfare issues for pet rabbits using a modified Delphi method. Vet Rec Open 2019; 6:e000363. [PMID: 31903189 PMCID: PMC6924855 DOI: 10.1136/vetreco-2019-000363] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2019] [Revised: 10/21/2019] [Accepted: 10/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Rabbits are the third most popular pet in the UK, but little research into their welfare needs has been conducted. Methods A modified Delphi method was used to generate expert consensus on the most important welfare issues for rabbits in the UK. The study involved 11 experts, recruited from a range of disciplines. The experts generated an initial broad list of welfare issues via an online discussion board. Two rounds of online surveys were conducted to prioritise these issues. The final round was a workshop with a subsection of experts. The experts decided that welfare issues should be ranked considering: (1) severity, (2) duration, and (3) prevalence. Results Experts considered that rabbits were often kept in inadequate housing, were not handled or socialised properly, were fed inappropriate diets and owners failed to vaccinate their rabbits against preventable diseases. Rabbits were thought to experience a reduced life expectancy. Lack of owner knowledge of rabbit husbandry and behaviour and, in some cases, also lack of veterinary knowledge, contributed to poor rabbit welfare. Conclusions The Delphi process resulted in consensus on the most significant welfare challenges faced by rabbits and can help guide future research and education priority decisions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Rioja-Lang
- Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education, The University of Edinburgh Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Heather Bacon
- Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education, The University of Edinburgh Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Melanie Connor
- Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education, The University of Edinburgh Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Cathy Mary Dwyer
- Jeanne Marchig International Centre for Animal Welfare Education, The University of Edinburgh Royal Dick School of Veterinary Studies, Edinburgh, UK.,Animal Behaviour and Welfare, Scotland's Rural College, Edinburgh, UK
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Abstract
Because most research on rabbit husbandry, welfare, and nutrition was performed on production animals, evidence for best practices in pet rabbits is scarce, and guidelines must be based on transfer of results, deduction, and common sense. Rabbits benefit from being kept with at least one conspecific; from large enclosures and multistory hutches; from drinking water offered ad libitum in open dish drinker systems; and from receiving hay ad libitum, with restricted amounts of fresh grass, herbs, or green leafy vegetables, and a high-fiber complete diet. Offering hay ad libitum bears several advantages and should be considered a matter of course.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus Clauss
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland.
| | - Jean-Michel Hatt
- Clinic for Zoo Animals, Exotic Pets and Wildlife, Vetsuisse Faculty, University of Zurich, Winterthurerstrasse 260, Zurich 8057, Switzerland
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Abstract
There has been a recent trend towards keeping non-traditional companion animals, also known as exotic pets. These pets include parrots, reptiles, amphibians and rabbits, as well as small species of rodent such as degus and guinea pigs. Many of these exotic pet species are not domesticated, and often have special requirements in captivity, which many owners do not have the facilities or knowledge to provide. Keeping animals in settings to which they are poorly adapted is a threat to their welfare. Additionally, owner satisfaction with the animal may be poor due to a misalignment of expectations, which further impacts on welfare, as it may lead to repeated rehoming or neglect. We investigate a range of commonly kept exotic species in terms of their suitability as companion animals from the point of view of animal welfare and owner satisfaction, and make recommendations on the suitability of various species as pets.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel A Grant
- Animal Behavior and Welfare Research Group, Department of Animal and Agriculture, University Centre, Hartpury, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK.
| | - V Tamara Montrose
- Animal Behavior and Welfare Research Group, Department of Animal and Agriculture, University Centre, Hartpury, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK.
| | - Alison P Wills
- Animal Health Research Group, Department of Animal and Agriculture, University Centre, Hartpury, Gloucestershire GL19 3BE, UK.
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Bradbury AG, Dickens GJE. Appropriate handling of pet rabbits: a literature review. J Small Anim Pract 2016; 57:503-509. [PMID: 27558778 DOI: 10.1111/jsap.12549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2015] [Revised: 04/24/2016] [Accepted: 06/23/2016] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
Many rabbits show fear behaviours when lifted off the ground. Estimates from owner surveys suggest that around 60% of pet rabbits struggle when lifted and fear-related aggression is common. This article integrates information from both laboratory and pet rabbit studies to formulate a list of recommendations for appropriate handling of rabbits. Reduction of the frequency of the stressor can be achieved by educating owners on alternative management practices to reduce the need to carry their rabbits. However, in some situations, it is unavoidable that a rabbit is lifted. Amelioration of the stress in these instances can be achieved by a 2 pronged strategy. First, the population of rabbits can be made more resilient to infrequent stressors by selectively breeding for confident rabbits and by better socialisation of unweaned kits, and, where possible, training of individual animals to permit handling. Secondly, any unavoidable lifting can be made less stressful by educating veterinary staff in appropriate methods of holding rabbits during both consultations and inpatient care. Better understanding of appropriate interactions with rabbits will improve welfare.
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Affiliation(s)
- A G Bradbury
- Innovia Technology, St Andrew's Road, Cambridge, CB4 1DL.
| | - G J E Dickens
- Innovia Technology, St Andrew's Road, Cambridge, CB4 1DL
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Desforges EJ, Moesta A, Farnworth MJ. Effect of a shelf-furnished screen on space utilisation and social behaviour of indoor group-housed cats (Felis silvestris catus). Appl Anim Behav Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2016.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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Buijs S, Maertens L, Hermans K, Vangeyte J, Tuyttens FAM. Behaviour, wounds, weight loss and adrenal weight of rabbit does as affected by semi-group housing. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.09.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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Prebble JL, Langford FM, Shaw DJ, Meredith AL. The effect of four different feeding regimes on rabbit behaviour. Appl Anim Behav Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.applanim.2015.05.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
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Planimetric measurement of floor space covered by fattening rabbits and breeding does in different body positions and weight classes. Livest Sci 2015. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2015.04.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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Rooney NJ, Blackwell EJ, Mullan SM, Saunders R, Baker PE, Hill JM, Sealey CE, Turner MJ, Held SDE. The current state of welfare, housing and husbandry of the English pet rabbit population. BMC Res Notes 2014; 7:942. [PMID: 25532711 PMCID: PMC4307134 DOI: 10.1186/1756-0500-7-942] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2014] [Accepted: 12/10/2014] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The welfare of pet rabbits is an area of growing interest in Europe and the UK. This study analyses questionnaire results from a diverse population of 1254 rabbit owners from three different geographical areas in England with the aim of providing an accurate representation of how pet rabbits are currently housed and cared for and key aspects of their health and welfare. RESULTS Rabbits were kept in a variety of different housing types, the most common being a traditional hutch/cage (59%). Although the majority had additional exercise areas, access was often unpredictable, or ill-timed, which may compromise welfare. Only 41.9% of owners kept their rabbit with conspecifics, limiting their ability to engage in social behaviour. Of those rabbits housed with a companion, although many were reported to be amicable and to engage in positive interactions, over a quarter were reported to fight at least occasionally (25.3%), whilst 22.7% guarded resources and 27.1% avoided one another. Whilst low levels of some of these behaviours may be a normal part of social interaction, the relatively high levels reported here suggest that not all cohabiting pairs of rabbits are compatible, which is potentially a significant welfare issue.Although the vast majority of owners fed hay for over 10% this was less than daily. Pelleted foods were very popular (71.4% at least daily) compared to commercial muesli mixes (32.6%). As in previous studies, dental problems were commonly reported (12.2% of rabbits); however, so were eye problems (12.9%), digestive problems (11.5%) and parasites (11.3%). A large proportion of rabbits (58%) were thought to be fearful of loud noises, and 61% were not reported as calm when handled by their owner, which may be a significant concern for this species. CONCLUSION This study has confirmed and expanded on previous findings: many pet rabbits were found to be in good health, had compatible companions and were provided with enriched living areas. However, it also found numerous welfare issues that affect large numbers of pet rabbits. We suggest further studies are required exploring the accuracy of owner reports (which possibly under-report many problems) and prioritising the issues raised here.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola J Rooney
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Emily J Blackwell
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Siobhan M Mullan
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Richard Saunders
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Paula E Baker
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Jenna M Hill
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Clare E Sealey
- />CAPITA Secure Information Solutions, Methuen Park, Bath Rd, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN14 0TW England
| | - Matthew J Turner
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
| | - Suzanne DE Held
- />Department of Clinical Veterinary Science, Animal Welfare and Behaviour Group, University of Bristol, Langford, BS40 5DU Bristol, UK
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Overall KL. Cost of error minimization and the conservative use of behavioral data. J Vet Behav 2010. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jveb.2010.11.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
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