Petition · Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

Ban the sale of rabbits as domestic pets

Open for signatures 25 signatures

What the petition asks

We want the Government to ban the sale of rabbits as domestic pets. We feel that too many rabbits are neglected, kept in unsuitable hutches, and abandoned.
Rabbits can be classified as exotic pets due to their specialised care needs and unique physiology and need to be looked after correctly. They are bought mainly for children and then they can get neglected as the novelty wears off. Pet shops often sell hutches not fit for purpose, and rabbits can often be kept in them 24/7. We believe there are far too many rabbits needing to be re-homed because people realise they are not easy or cheap to care for properly.

Timeline

16 Jul 2026 Petition opened for signatures

Key facts

Signatures 25
Status Open for signatures
Department Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Opened 16 Jul 2026

Follow this petition

Sign in to get an email when the government responds, a debate is scheduled or held, or the petition closes.

Source: the official petition page. Last checked 26 Jul 2026.