Petfood retailer Burgess Pet Care and UK animal charities are leading a campaign to stop sales of muesli-style products after reviewing new veterinary research.

Research by the University of Edinburgh, supported by Burgess, suggests that feeding muesli-style petfoods , with or without hay, to rabbits may be linked to abnormalities that can lead to dental and digestive problems needing veterinary treatment.

Professor Anna Meredith, from the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies, The University of Edinburgh, said: “The findings of this research have significant implications for the feeding of the nation’s rabbits. Vets have suspected for a number of years that feeding muesli-style foods could lead to health issues in rabbits, and now we have the proof to substantiate that.”

As a result of the findings, beginning May 4, Rabbit Awareness Week will run an education program among rabbit owners to stop sales of these foods. The program includes free health checks and rabbit-related events in the UK, resources for veterinarians and consumers, as well as a national media campaign. Veterinarians can register online to become part of the campaign and receive their free support packs.