The Scottish SPCA fears more rabbits than ever are being neglected and mistreated after rescuing a record-breaking number of bunnies.
The animal welfare charity is concerned at the number of animals arriving in their care.
As Rabbit Awareness Week started on Monday, chief superintendent Mike Flynn revealed that almost 100 rabbits were brought into their Tayside and Fife rescue centre at Petterden last year.
He said: “This worrying figure demonstrates why we need to raise awareness of the hardships many pet rabbits face.
“Some rabbits arrive in our care in a terrible state having been denied basic nutrition and veterinary attention, while others are sadly forgotten pets children have grown tired of.”
He said anyone thinking of buying or rehoming a rabbit should ensure they have the time, commitment and ability to provide it with a happy and healthy life.
“Thankfully, the severe cruelty cases are in the minority. The biggest issue is rabbits being put in a hutch and left at the bottom of the garden, with many enduring a life of solitude and boredom,” he said.
“Often the only interaction they have is a brief visit from their owner to bring food and water.
“Many owners even find this to be a chore and it is these rabbits which tend to be dumped outdoors or handed into one of our rescue centres unwanted.
“We currently have a number of rabbits in our care looking for good, permanent homes.”
The Scottish SPCA’s Angus, Fife and Tayside Animal Rescue and Rehoming Centre is open from 10am to 4pm daily.
For more information call 03000 999 999 or visit scottishspca.org/rehoming.