Giant Breeds

Giant breed rabbits are larger in size compared to other rabbits. Giant breeds share the same sociable nature of other rabbit breeds, but they tend to live for a shorter time, generally no more than five years.

There are many different types of the giant breeds including; Flemish Giant, French Lop, Checkered Giant or Giant Chinchilla Rabbit. A Flemish Giant Rabbit can live up to five years they are known for their long and powerful body. The French Lop Rabbit has a lifespan of five years or more and has long ears and has a soft dense coat. The Checkered Giant Rabbit is easy to spot; they will have checkered spots over their body and can live up to five years or more. The Giant Chinchilla is a stocky rabbit and does not require regular grooming.

Lifespan

The average lifespan of a Rabbit is between seven and ten years, however giant breeds tend to live for shorter periods, of about five years.

Company for Rabbits

Rabbits are very sociable and are happiest when they have another rabbit for company. However, they should be neutered or spayed to prevent breeding or fighting. Neutered or spayed rabbits tend to live happily together. The best pairing is usually a neutered male with a spayed female.

Breeding females should be separated from males to prevent the males from attacking the young.

Where Rabbits Like to Live

Rabbits can be kept indoors or outdoors. Your rabbit will need a cage or hutch which is at least four times larger than it is [consider its adult size when buying their cage], to ensure is has enough space to move around. If you have more than one rabbit, you will need a larger cage, or multiple cages to accommodate them all.

Your rabbit can be kept outdoors all year round but ideally they should be brought into a shed or shelter provided for the winter to protect them against harsh weather conditions. A hutch cover is recommended to provide extra protection from the elements. Your rabbit’s hutch should be draught free and fully waterproof. It should also have a separate space where the Rabbit can exercise, and should be raised off the ground to provide protection from predators such as cats and foxes.

If your rabbit is going to live indoors, choose a cage which is specifically designed for indoor rabbits. It should be positioned in a cool room out of direct sunlight, away from radiators and clear of any draughts. Indoor rabbits will also like time every day out of their cage to get some exercise.

Exercise & Play for Rabbits

Rabbits can get very bored if they’re left alone in their cage (indoor) or hutch (outdoor), when you are not around. Stimulating natural behaviour by hiding treats around their cage and providing lots of gnawing toys will help to keep them entertained.

Unlike some small animals, Rabbits normally come out to play during the day and sleep at night.

Rabbits love exercise; it is a good idea to let them out during the day under supervision in a play pen. Regular exercise will help the rabbit maintain good health. You may also like to take your rabbit for a walk, and bunny harnesses are available at your local Petmania.

Health & Hygiene

A healthy diet, regular exercise and a clean home will help to keep your rabbit in good health.

Your rabbit’s cage or hutch should be cleaned at least once a week using a pet-safe disinfectant, while water and feeding bowls should be cleaned every day.

Hay and gnawing toys are an essential part of your pets dental routine and should always be available as they help to prevent overgrown teeth.

If you become concerned about any aspect of your rabbit’s wellbeing Petmania’s Pet Care Advisors have a wealth of experience and knowledge that they are only too happy to share, so please ask.

A healthy rabbit will:

• Be alert with bright eyes
• Have dry and clean nostrils
• Have a shiny coat

Vaccinations

There are several common rabbit diseases, many of which are contagious. It’s vital that your rabbit is vaccinated against the two diseases known as Myxomatosis and Viral Haemorrhagic Disease (VHD1 and VHD2). A single injection for each disease will fully protect your rabbit. Your local vet can advise you on these vaccinations and regular booster injections.

Fleas

Keep an eye on your pet’s skin and coat for signs of fleas and mites such as bald patches or irritation. Regular grooming will help you identify any problems that may arise.

Outdoor rabbits are vulnerable to fly strike during the summer months so make sure you keep your rabbit and their environment clean and dry. Fly strike results from flies laying eggs on a Rabbits fur, these eggs then develop into maggots which then cause irritation for the Rabbit causing nasty wounds to develop if left untreated.

Grooming

Regular grooming will help strengthen the relationship between you and your rabbit and it can also help to highlight any health problems. Use a soft brush or a grooming glove, brush your rabbits hair once a week (short hair) or daily if they have long hair to keep their skin and coats healthy, and to prevent the hair balls occurring.

Keeping your rabbit’s nails trim is also important. Our Pet Care Advisors can clip your bunny’s nails for you the next time you are in store.

Neutering or Spaying

Neutering (males) or spaying (females), can help your rabbit live a happier, healthier, and longer life, while also preventing unwanted breeding and reducing aggression.

Both neutering (males) and spaying (females) are surgical procedures done under anaesthetic; therefore there is minimal pain for the rabbit. You can neuter or spay your rabbit when it reaches sexual maturity which is around four to six months old.

Benefits of Neutering / Spaying:

• Prevent breeding or fighting
• Neutered or Spayed Rabbits tend to live better together
• Neutered or Sprayed Rabbits are healthier and make much better company
• Your rabbit will be calmer and more sociable