Tuesday, 15 June 2010

Choosing a rabbit thats best for you

There's currently over 40 recognized breeds of rabbits. Lots of of the breeds have multiple varieties & colors. Rabbits range in size from two pounds to over ten pounds. So the choices are very considerable.

Lots of 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 he reaches maturity. He 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 every day basis. Some does we have found to be non-aggressive, & yet others can become territorial towards everybody, but that is very rare. In case you do not plan to breed your rabbit, & you need a doe, it is best to have her spayed to help reduce the chances that he may protect her den.

Bucks present a different issue all together. Bucks usually are not aggressive. However, spraying can be an issue. When the buck reaches maturity he may start to spray his urine in every single place to let the whole world know he is prepared for a mate. Again, not all bucks will do this, & usually the ones that do, will only do so for a short time period. This issue can be eliminated by having the buck neutered.
Grooming is another consideration. The wool breeds such as angoras & jersey woolies need additional work in grooming. All rabbits need a nice method of grooming by their caretaker, but the wool breeds need more time because of the nature of their fur type.

The best way to see & find out about rabbits is to attend a rabbit show. At the rabbit show you will find lots of breeders & most of the breeds of rabbits. To discover a show near you visit our calendar page & search for a show in your state.

I would not recommend purchasing 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 discover 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 in case 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. If a rabbit moves to the back its probably not a nice rabbit for you.

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