Why rabbits are the third most relinquished small animal in the US

Society · Published 7 October 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Many people assume rabbits are low-maintenance pets because they live in cages. In reality, they often require more upkeep than dogs. This misunderstanding, combined with unrealistic expectations about their behavior, has led to a surprising surge in shelter surrenders across the country.

The primary driver behind the high volume of rabbits in shelters is a lack of research regarding their specific needs. Many owners mistakenly believe that because a rabbit is housed in a cage, it is a passive pet. However, rabbits actually require more maintenance than many dogs, including regular cage cleaning, dedicated out-of-cage exercise in rabbit-proofed areas, and specialized veterinary care. Owners frequently fail to realize that these animals need specific environments to roam freely. This lack of preparation often leads to a cycle of surrender.

The cost of care is another significant hurdle. Because not all veterinarians are equipped to treat them, specialized rabbit care can be more expensive than that of a cat or dog. Additionally, there is a common misconception that rabbits are like 'animated stuffed toys.' As ground animals, most rabbits prefer to keep their feet on the floor and do not enjoy being picked up or carried, which can lead to frustration for owners who expected a cuddly companion. Many people choose rabbits specifically to avoid the costs associated with other pets. However, finding a qualified specialist for their medical needs can be difficult.

A recurring trend in surrenders involves 'responsibility rabbits'—animals bought specifically to teach children about pet ownership. This often fails because children quickly lose interest, leaving parents with a high-maintenance pet they are no longer willing to care for. Furthermore, parents often underestimate the physical risks; small children handling rabbits can easily drop them, leading to injuries. Finally, some owners relinquish pets due to unforeseen allergies, highlighting the need for pre-adoption screening for asthma or sensitivities. Some families discover they have severe asthma or other reactions only after bringing the pet home. Visiting a rescue organization first can help identify these issues before adoption.

General information, not professional advice. Spotted an error? Flag the card or see corrections and complaints.

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