The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA), on Thursday 9 January, criticised the current conditions under which rabbits are reared and recommended enlarging cages and improving slaughter methods (electric stunning).
At the initiative of European Parliament and at the request of the European Commission, EFSA examined the conditions under which rabbits, the second most common farm animal in Europe in terms of numbers, are reared. Rabbit farming in the EU is mainly carried out in five Member States (France, Hungary, Italy, Portugal and Spain) and there is a wide variety of farming practices.
Based mainly on European expert opinions, as there is little data available, EFSA recommends that 'conventional' cages should be enlarged to improve rabbit welfare, in particular freedom of movement. The most satisfactory farming system is still the one that meets the specifications of organic farming, notes EFSA.
The scientific opinion focuses on six examples of housing systems: conventional cages, structurally enriched cages, elevated pens, floor pens, outdoor/partially outdoor systems and organic systems.
EFSA refers to risks in the slaughter procedure and identifies indicators to define whether or not the animal is conscious.
In 2017, the Parliament called for minimum standards for the protection of farmed rabbits. The EU Council has called for strengthened rules on the welfare of animals, including rabbits (see EUROPE 12391/31). To consult the EFSA opinion: http://bit.ly/2uxShSR Original version in French by Lionel Changeur)