The lion-headed rabbit attracts the attention of others with its unusual, exotic appearance. Therefore, today an increasing number of people choose representatives of this relatively new breed as pets. Having considered today's article, you will learn how these decorative animals look and how to care for them.
A bit of history
Despite the fact that this breed was bred relatively recently, specialists do not have accurate information about their origin. According to one version, these animals were obtained by crossing smooth-haired and long-haired rabbits. According to another, no less common theory, they are the result of some kind of mutation. The only thing that can be said with absolute certainty is the dominance of the genes that determine the development of mane.
Despite the fact that the first lion-headed rabbit appeared in Belgium, a generally accepted standard that applies to all representatives of this breed was developed in the United States. These fluffy animals with exotic appearance were brought to Russia in the early 2000s and immediately gained unprecedented popularity.
Breed description
These are small animals with a shortened body, a wide chest and a well-developed croup. On a small head are wide-set eyes and furry ears, the length of which does not exceed nine centimeters. The rounded cheeks of the animals smoothly pass into a short neck, almost invisible behind a thick mane.
An adult lion-headed rabbit, the size of which is striking in its miniature, has strong, moderately long hind limbs. Babies who have not reached the age of six months have a body weight of not more than 700 grams. An adult, sexually mature individual weighs between 1.5-1.7 kg.
As for the color, the standard allowed about 60 possible variations. The most common are purple, chocolate, sable, black and white fur. The most interesting are decorative rabbits with chinchilla, opal, blue and orange fur coats.
Character Features
These are very calm and peaceful animals. They differ in complaisant character. Representatives of this breed are quite active and energetic. If desired, they can be taught some simple tricks.
The lion-headed dwarf rabbit is very shy. Caught in a noisy and unfavorable environment, he can be very scared and show aggression. With gentle handling, the animal quickly assimilates and manifests itself from the best side.
These friendly animals get along well with both children and adults. But they do not tolerate sudden movements and will not tolerate touching their ears, on which there are many nerve endings.
Lion-headed rabbits: care
These animals need a fairly spacious cage, in which there is a drinking bowl, feeder, berth and toilet tray. The rabbit's housing must not be placed in drafts and in the immediate vicinity of heating appliances. Also, direct sunlight should not fall on the cage. It is undesirable to allow loud noises in the room where the fearful lion-headed rabbit lives.
How long do these animals live? In many respects, terms depend on the conditions of detention. Under favorable circumstances, the furry will delight owners until 11 years old. To reduce the likelihood of problems with the spine, to strengthen the back muscles and prevent the development of obesity, the pet needs to ensure regular physical activity. Three times a week, a pet needs to brush his teeth. Special care requires animal hair. So that it does not stray into tangles and has an aesthetic appearance, it should be combed daily. Once a month, the animal is recommended to cut its claws.
Food
Miniature decorative rabbits eat the same thing as their standard relatives. The basis of their diet should be hay. They can also be given raw fruits and vegetables, including apples, pears, cauliflower, lettuce, turnips, pumpkin and carrots. From time to time, it is advisable to supplement the animal menu with fresh dandelions and tree branches. In addition, they periodically need to give special granules with the maximum fiber content and low protein levels.
It is important to completely exclude white cabbage, walnuts, cookies, sweets, beets, potatoes and baked goods from the diet of a lion-headed rabbit. All these products are categorically not suitable for feeding miniature animals and are not absorbed in their bodies.
Health
Lion-headed rabbit is susceptible to various viral and infectious diseases. Since many of the ailments that these animals suffer are difficult to treat, they are easier to prevent. These fluffy miniature animals with exotic looks are prone to myxomatosis, pneumonia, infectious rhinitis, stomatitis and conjunctivitis. All these diseases are transmitted from infected individuals to healthy ones.
Also, rabbits often suffer from pododermatitis, scabies and ringworm. The weakness of all types of ornamental rabbits is the gastrointestinal tract. They are prone to constipation and bloating.
In order to protect your pet from the most dangerous ailments, it is important to conduct timely vaccination. Veterinarians advise giving comprehensive preventive vaccinations at least once a year.
Rabbit Choice and Common Content Mistakes
The acquisition of a small pet is a kind of lottery. After all, no self-respecting breeder can guarantee that an exhibition animal of breeding value will necessarily grow out of a particular rabbit. Therefore, those who want to buy a small animal that meets generally accepted standards and is suitable for breeding should choose from adult specimens.
For those who just need a pet, you can buy a little rabbit. When choosing, it is desirable to give preference to active individuals with a clearly emerging mane. The animal you like should have clean ears, nose and eyes. A healthy baby has a soft and pleasant to the touch coat.
Many inexperienced owners unknowingly believe that a lion-headed rabbit needs regular bathing. In fact, despite the fluffy and long coat, it can not be washed. Hygienic water procedures are very stressful for the animal, so they must be avoided. The animal is able to independently clean its own fur coat.
Some people, buying a furry pet, forget to ask the breeder what he fed the baby. Therefore, upon arrival to a new home, they begin to give the animal inappropriate and unusual products. Such rash actions are fraught with serious problems with the digestive system. To avoid possible troubles, find out in advance what the rabbit you bought was eating.