STAFF at Scottish SPCA Ayrshire’s rehoming centre are concerned at the increase in the number of rabbits coming into their care.

The unit, which covers East Ayrshire, revealed that there has been a 20 per cent rise in unwanted bunnies over the last five years.

They are urging people to consider taking on a rescue rabbit rather than buying a new bunny from a shop as their numbers continue to rise.

Centre manager Marion Hainey, said: “This year is proving to be very challenging and this worrying trend demonstrates why we need to raise awareness of the hardships many pet rabbits face.

“There are many excuses as to why people are giving up their pet rabbits, the main reason being that their children have got bored with them.

“Although there are lots of loving rabbit owners who treat their pets like one of the family and give them all the care and attention they need, sadly this isn’t true in all cases.

“Some rabbits arrive in our care in a terrible state having been denied basic nutrition and veterinary attention, while others are sadly forgotten pets children have grown tired of.

“Thankfully, the severe cruelty cases are in the minority. The biggest issue is rabbits being put in a hutch and left at the bottom of the garden, with many enduring a life of solitude and boredom.

“Often the only interaction they have is a brief visit from their owner to bring food and water. Many owners even find this to be a chore and it is these rabbits which tend to be dumped.

“We’d be delighted to welcome potential owners along to our rescue centre to meet the rabbits we have waiting for a fresh start in life and loving new homes.”

Two of them, Ollie and Cookie, are looking for a new home together as they are a closely bonded pair.

They both can be a little shy but are friendly and don’t mind being petted.

Ollie is the more confident of the two and Cookie will often hide behind him.

They are still getting used to their new surroundings but will be fantastic pets once they have settled in to their new home.

Visit scottishspca.org/rehoming or call 03000 999 999 for more information.