As restrictions lift and people’s lives go back to normal, the charity is concerned that for many the ‘novelty’ may wear off and they will see numbers of rabbits coming into its centres and branches.
In 2020, there were 1,174 abandoned rabbits reported to the RSPCA’s cruelty line and the RSPCA took in 2,653 rabbits altogether – which means 44% of all rabbits coming into the charity’s care last year were abandoned.
In West Yorkshire alone, there were 74 abandoned rabbits – the second highest county in the UK.
This Rabbit Awareness Week (June 28 to July 4), the RSPCA is highlighting why rabbits are not ‘easy, starter pets’ but are actually complex animals to care for and urging anyone who may have bought a rabbit on impulse during the lockdown to reach out for help if they’re struggling.
Dr Jane Tyson, RSPCA rabbit welfare expert, said: “Unfortunately, we do see many rabbits abandoned and rescued by our…
