The Consumers Association of Penang has advised the public against buying rabbits as pets, in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration

The Consumers Association of Penang has advised the public against buying rabbits as pets, in conjunction with the Chinese New Year celebration. 

It says rabbits are among the most neglected animals, as people tend to be unaware of how to care for them.

“In most homes, these animals are subjected to filthy living conditions, in small and cramped cages for life,” CAP president Mohideen Abdul Kader says.

“Rabbit owners have no idea that their pets need space to exercise as they are social creatures needing social stimulation.”

 “High demand for rabbits may be inevitable in the run-up to the rabbit year with the belief that it will bring good luck,” he adds. 

“However, as with other past zodiacal hype, many rabbits will be left to their fate once the novelty dies off.”

He adds that the zodiac ‘animal trend’ is bound to lead to extensive exploitation by pet retailers, petting zoos, and animal farms.

“A high sales pitch is very worrisome to CAP because of the misconception that rabbits are low maintenance pets.”

“CAP, therefore, implores consumers not to follow the hype of acquiring rabbits as pets,” Mohideen says. 

“If there is a need for a rabbit to symbolise good fortune, elegance, and beauty, people can acquire a toy rabbit or figurine instead.”