By KLTV Newsdesk –
Three female rabbits were rescued on Easter Monday after being abandoned in a filthy cage.
The bunnies were discovered by a dog walker in the woods off Manchester Road between Marsden and Slaithwaite in West Yorkshire.
A member of the public kindly took the animals home and provided them with fresh bedding before they were collected the following morning by RSPCA animal rescue officer Emmeline Myall and taken for veterinary treatment.
Two of the rabbits were underweight and had visible fur loss and urine-soaked paws.
The RSPCA is currently dealing with a ‘rabbit crisis’ as animal centres struggle to cope with a considerable influx caused by abandonments triggered by the cost-of-living crisis and out-of-control breeding.
With no space available in any RSPCA facilities in the local area, the three rabbits are now being privately boarded by the charity until space becomes available and they can be rehomed.
Poor State
Emmeline Myall, RSPCA animal rescue officer, stated: “Two of the rabbits were in a poor state of health and had lost chunks of fur.
“Their paws were stained yellow with urine which could have been caused by them spending long periods in the filthy cage they were found in, which was far too small to meet their needs.
“They’re now receiving ongoing treatment for their skin, as well as lots of TLC, and we’re hopeful they’ll go on to make a good recovery.”
She added: “This incident demonstrates the complexities involved in caring for rabbits and we’d urge people who are thinking about getting them as pets to consider the time and cost implications.
“They are one of the most neglected pets in Britain and we need to end the misconception that they are ideal ‘starter’ pets and are somehow easier than cats and dogs.
“They need so much more than just a hutch at the end of the garden and are very complex animals with needs for company, stimulation and exercise.
“They also have long life spans of around 8 to 12 years, so they are a big commitment for any family.”
Increased Cases
Last year, the RSPCA saw a significant 48% increase in the number of rabbits arriving at its animal centres compared to 2020.
However, while the intake of rabbits has surged, rehoming rates have fallen by 42% compared to before the Coronavirus pandemic.
The RSPCA urges anyone considering taking on rabbits to research their needs thoroughly and adopt from an animal or rescue centre like those run by the RSPCA and other reputable organisations rather than shopping for them.
The charity also supports calls by the Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund for a rabbit breeding amnesty to help reduce the rabbit population and safeguard rabbit welfare.
As the cost of living crisis continues, RSPCA officers are dealing with increasing numbers of abandoned animals.
In March alone, the charity received 1,517 reports about abandonments – up from 1,429 for the same month last year, a six per cent rise.
Anyone with information about the rabbits is urged to contact the RSPCA’s inspectorate appeal line, in confidence, on 0300 123 8018.