Widespread misunderstanding of domestic rabbits has made them the third most abandoned pets in the United States. As well, they are the third most popular pet in America, after cats and dogs, according to the Humane Society of the United States.
Source: National Geographic, April 12, 2017.
With proper care, rabbits live 10 to 12 years. Because many people think they’re short-lived, low maintenance, cage-bound animals, rabbits are seen as “starter pets,” akin to hamsters or goldfish, perfect for kids. This misconception may help drive a glut of baby bunny sales ahead of Easter — and a subsequent rise in rabbit abandonments