THE RSPCA is struggling to cope with large numbers of rabbits abandoned in the cold by heartless owners.

The rabbits have been set free by their owners fed-up with feeding their pets and cleaning out their cages in last week's freezing temperatures.

Kathy Kay from Bolton's RSPCA says that rabbits are like backyard prisoners as owners get fed up of cleaning them out in the winter months.

In the North-west, the RSPCA is currently housing 130 rabbits.

Ms Kay said it was difficult for people to report abuse of rabbits because many of the animals are stuck in a hutch, without the outside world knowing of their suffering.

She said: "People simply don't want to walk to the bottom of their garden to clean out a rabbit hutch when it is raining or cold.

"They need constant attention. People often get rabbits for the children thinking it is the cheap option. But a rabbit is for winter too."

The RSPCA only re-house rabbits in pairs saying that they are a social animal which are not designed to sit in hutches on their own.

RSPCA North-west superintendent Bill Cottingham, said: "While there are many responsible and caring rabbit owners in the north west, who look after their pets in more acceptable conditions, there are too many people who do not understand the commitment, time and money required to provide proper care. Sadly, this is true for most animals."

Bolton is providing emergency homes for 20 rabbits.

Those interested in adopting a neutered pair are asked to contact the Bolton RSPCA on 01204 521160.