The RSPCA has warned against a surge in unwanted rabbits being returned to shelters.
The animal welfare charity said it has been met with an influx of rabbits and small pets.
In the last three months alone there have been reports of 150 abandoned rabbits, 2,528 abandoned rabbits and other small pets reported to our cruelty line since March 2020.
The RSPCA voiced their concerns about the possibility of an oncoming “spike” in families buying and then rehoming rabbits over the Easter period.
Potential bunny and small pet owners are being encouraged to be prepared before making a commitment.
RSPCA rabbit expert Dr Jane Tyson said: “This Easter and beyond we are urging people not to buy a rabbit, or any pet, on an impulse as sadly many people may not realise what is involved in caring for them.
“Small doesn’t necessarily mean easy and we’re already beginning to see the impact of the lockdown with owners struggling to care for their small pets.
“We’d always ask prospective owners to please do their research and make sure they have the time, money and resources to be able to care for that animal for the rest of their lives.”
Owners must provide rabbits with fresh hay, regular grooming and be paired with a companion for ideal conditions.
It is thought Easter festivities, a return to normal after the pandemic rise in pet ownership and the cost of living could be the causes for this issue.
Speaking to UK charity CAM4Animals, Bunny Bonding Coach Fiona Murphy said:“These days a lot of pet shops hold off on selling bunnies at Easter, but not all have any conscience about it.
“If you go into rabbit ownership with your eyes open and fully committing to their needs for their entire lifetime, you’ll never regret your decision to welcome a bunny into your home and life.”
