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Author: Rob Usakowski
Having a pet rabbit can be such a rewarding experience. But
with all the breeds, sizes and colors, how do you select the
rabbit that is just right for you? This article will help
you select that perfect rabbit.
Choosing the right rabbit for you and your family can be
a very exciting process. 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. So the choices are very abundant.
Many breeders give different answers regarding the preferred
gender for a pet rabbit. This is compounded by the individual
temperament of the rabbit. Often a doe (girl rabbit) that
is not
spayed, can become territorial was she reaches maturity. She
may nip at you when reaching for her or even her food or water
dishes. Some does will eliminate that aggression when a familiar
face does the feeding on a daily basis. Some does we've found
to be non-aggressive, and yet others can become territorial
towards everybody, but that is very rare. 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.
Bucks present a different problem all together. Bucks generally
are not aggressive. However, spraying 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. The wool breeds such as
angoras and jersey woolies require extra work in grooming.
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.
The best way to see and find out about rabbits is to attend
a rabbit show. 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.
It would be in your best interest to find a breeder in your
area of the breed you think you would like. Visit with that
breeder. See what the conditions are in the barn. Ask if you
can hold a rabbit. Watch the rabbit's reaction to their cage
being opened.
Rabbits that love attention, will immediately come to the
door, some will even make happy grunting type noises. Other
rabbits will immediately go to the back of the cage. If a
rabbit moves to the back its probably not a good rabbit for
you.
Most of all have fun. Enjoy your search for that perfect
rabbit. There are many sizes colors and choices and finding
the fit for you can be time consuming but will be very rewarding
in the end.
About the author:
Rob Usakowski is owner of Three Little Ladies Rabbitry which is
run by his wife Cathie and their three daughters. Visit their
site Three
Little Ladies Holland Lops for lots of rabbit raising
information for both pet owners and breeders alike. |
