Critters Collection: Rabbit



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Rabbits

Rabbits were once considered rodents but have been reclassified as part of the Lagomorph family. Adult rabbits vary in size from 2 to almost 20 pounds, depending on the breed. Most rabbits have soft fur consisting of a dense undercoat and slightly longer guard hairs. Angora rabbits have fur that grows continually, which is called "wool." Most rabbits have erect ears, which can be as short as 2 inches in dwarf breeds. Lop rabbits have ears that hang down and include the longest-eared of all rabbits, the English lop who's ears can span nearly 3 feet. Rabbits live an average of about six years. However, with good care, a life span of 10 years is not unusual, which makes owning a rabbit a long-time commitment.

Raising and keeping rabbits is a popular and growing hobby in the United States. In 1994, the American Rabbit Breeders Association sanctioned over 3,600 shows. This organization currently has more than 24,000 adult members and 15,000 youth members.

Rabbits are quiet and relatively inexpensive to house and maintain. Rabbit breeds include many small, fancy breeds bred primarily as companion animals, as well as commercial breeds bred for meat and fur.

If you are looking for an alternative to a cat or dog because of living conditions or allergies, a rabbit could be just right for you. A rabbit also can be an alternative companion for a gentle cat or dog; a rabbit is an interesing addition to a multipet household.

Author(s): Julie Wright

ADDITIONAL RABBIT INFORMATION
Species:	Rabbit Breeds
Caging:	Rabbit Housing: Indoors or Outdoors?
Food and Water:	Feeding Rabbits
Handling:	Rabbits and Children
Pet Potential:	Rabbits as Pets
Supplies:	Rabbit Requirements
Special Tips:	Rabbit Pointers

Critters Home Page: Critter Collection: Rabbit

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