January 27, 2012
When Choosing A Pet Rabbit
Choosing the right rabbit for you and your family can be a very exciting process. Did you know that there are currently over 40 recognized breeds of rabbits? Many of the breeds have multiple varieties and colors. Rabbits range in size from 2 pounds to over 10 pounds. In other words, the choices are very abundant.
Many breeders give different answers regarding the preferred gender for a pet rabbit. This is also compounded by the individual temperament of the rabbit. Often a doe (girl rabbit) that is not spayed, can become territorial was she reaches maturity. When reaching for her or even her food or water dishes, then she may nip at you. When a familiar face does the feeding on a daily basis, then some does will eliminate that aggression. There are does that can become territorial towards everybody, but that is very rare while some are found to be non-aggressive. If you do not plan to breed your rabbit, and you want a doe, it is best to have her spayed to help reduce the chances that she may protect her den.
As for bucks, they present a different problem all together. Bucks generally are not aggressive. Spraying, however, can be a problem. When the buck reaches maturity he may start to spray his urine everywhere to let the whole world know he is ready for a mate. Again, not all bucks will do this, and typically the ones that do, will only do so for a short period of time. This problem can be eliminated by having the buck neutered.
Grooming is another consideration. Extra work in grooming is required for the wool breeds such as angoras and jersey woolies. All rabbits need a good routine of grooming by their caretaker, but the wool breeds require more time because of the nature of their fur type.
Attending a rabbit show is the best way to see and find out about rabbits. At the rabbit show you will find many breeders and most of the breeds of rabbits. To find a show near you visit our calendar page and search for a show in your state.
I would not recommend buying a rabbit without first seeing it, nor would I recommend purchasing a rabbit from a pet store. Finding a breeder in your area of the breed you think you would like is perhaps the best option that you have. Then, you can visit with that breeder. See what the conditions are in the barn. Ask if you can hold a rabbit. Determine the rabbit's reaction to their cage being opened. Rabbits will immediately come to the door if they love attention while some will make happy grunting type noises. There are other rabbits that will immediately go to the back of the cage. If a rabbit moves to the back its probably not a good rabbit for you.
The most important thing here is to have fun. Go ahead and enjoy your search for that perfect rabbit. Trying to find the fit for you can be time consuming but will be very rewarding in the end since there are many colors and choices.
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