The Social Nature of European Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus)

Area of Science:

• Animal Welfare Science
• Comparative Psychology
• Ethology

Background:

• Growing concerns for laboratory animal wellbeing are prompting reevaluation of housing practices.
• European rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) are often housed individually, contrasting with their natural social structures.
• Social companionship is being recognized as crucial for social species in research settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To comprehensively review the social behaviors and preferences of European rabbits in both wild and captive environments.
• To discuss the implications of these findings for the social housing of laboratory rabbits.
• To advocate for enhanced animal welfare in research through evidence-based housing strategies.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of studies on European rabbit social behavior.
• Analysis of ethological data from wild rabbit populations.
• Examination of captive rabbit behavior and social preferences in research settings.

Main Results:

• Wild rabbits exhibit complex social structures and group living.
• Captive rabbits demonstrate preferences for social interaction and companionship.
• Individual housing may negatively impact the welfare of European rabbits.

Conclusions:

• Social housing is a viable and beneficial approach for laboratory rabbits.
• Implementing social housing can significantly improve the welfare of European rabbits in research.
• Further research and adoption of social housing practices are recommended for laboratory rabbits.