An animal charity says it has seen a 90% increase in the number of rabbits needing to be rehomed across Staffordshire.
Figures from the RSPCA reveal the rise in the first six months of this year compared to the same period last year, with the charity saying it is showing no signs of slowing down.
Staff say lack of time after the pandemic and children losing interest are among the most commonly cited reasons given by people giving up their bunnies.
Claire Wood, from the RSPCA, said:
“As soon as one of our rabbit pens becomes available, it’s immediately filled – often the very same day – and this is a trend we’ve seen since the start of the year.
“Our worry is that many pet rabbits may have been bought on impulse during the pandemic and are now being handed over for rehoming because children have lost interest.
“Coupled with the fact that our adoptions have slowed down, it’s a very concerning time.”
Claire Wood, RSPCA
The warning about rising numbers of animals being given up comes during Rabbit Awareness Week.
The RSPCA is also using the initiative to highlight its Room for Rabbits drive, which sees owners asked to ensure their animals are not being kept in hutches that are too small for them.
