Are rabbits getting the correct care?

There are around 1.2 millions rabbits registered as pets in the UK but vets are becoming increasingly concerned that many rabbit owners aren't caring for their pet correctly. 

Some of the incorrect information owners have given to vets are:
Rabbits need custard creams for a shiny coat
Rabbits shouldn't eat grass before they're six months old
They shouldn't be transported at speeds over 30mph

The British Small Animal Veterinary Congress (BSAVA) which took place in Birmingham this year asked vets and veterinary nurses for other misconceptions they had heard. One of the most popular was that people didn't realise rabbits require their own body size in fresh hay everyday. Also that rabbits are social animals and so need company (other rabbits, not guinea pigs). And although Bugs Bunny may be very keen on carrots, they should only be fed to rabbits as a rare treat. The same applies to apples.
As well as this:
Fruit juice should NOT be added to a rabbits water
Six years of age isn't old, the average life expectancy of a rabbit is 8-12 years (the oldest recorded rabbit in the UK was 17 years old).

The Animal Welfare Act 2006 (UK) states that as a pet owner, you are legally obliged to provide the following for your rabbit:

1. Environment - In the wild, a rabbits territory is the equivalent to 30 tennis courts. Many pet rabbits spend their entire lives confined to a hutch 24 hours a day. They also need a large grassy area to run and jump around in to provide them with their much needed exercise and giving you a far happier bunny. 
   
2. Diet - Fibre is essential to a rabbits dental and digestive health. Good quality grass or hay should make up the majority of a rabbits diet and must be available at all times. 5% of their diet should consist of dry pellets.
   
3. Behaviour - Rabbits have plenty to keep them occupied in the wild. From foraging, territorial fighting, reproducing and just general exploration. Pet rabbits often lack any form of stimulation which can lead to behavioural problems and poor health. Like us, they need to be kept physically and mentally active.
   
4. Company - Rabbits are incredible sociable animals and if left alone and without nothing to do, will suffer. Keeping a single rabbit alone in a hutch is a very miserable life for a rabbit. With complex social needs and are happier if kept with another friendly rabbit or in a group of rabbits. However, putting the wrong rabbits together can lead to unwanted kittens (baby rabbits) or fighting so neutering is always recommended.
   
5. Health - For a long, happy and fulfilling life, its vital to keep your rabbit fit and healthy. They can be prone to some nasty illnesses which can be tricky to treat but can be easily prevented if you know how. Good care, appropriate feeding and vaccinations are the key to a healthy, happy bunny.
   

Last week saw Rabbit Awareness Week in the UK.  A campaign now in its 10th year, which offers free help and advice through vets. Hundreds of retailers and rescue centres run fun and educational events to spread the word about how to care for and get the best from your pet rabbit.