Californian rabbit

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The Californian rabbit is a breed of rabbit developed in the United States in the 1920s, intended to be a rapidly maturing meat breed that also had good quality fur.

Contents 1 History and origin 2 Appearance 3 Feed and housing 4 Common diseases and disorders 5 References

[edit] History and origin

The Californian breed was developed in the early 1920s by George West. Rabbit breeders in the United States crossed Himalayan breeds and the Standard Chinchilla rabbit breed. The purpose of this breed was to have a good meat breed that also had good fur. The breed did not become popular for at least 15 years after development. Today, the Californian rabbit is the second most popular meat-producing breed in the world. The fur quality allows this rabbit to also be classified as a fancy breed.^[1]

[edit] Appearance

The Californian rabbit has erect ears and is moderate in size, weighing around 7 to 10 pounds (3.5 to 4.75 kilograms). The original coloration of this breed was very similar to the Himalayan rabbit, with a predominantly white body and black on the feet, nose, ears and tail.

[edit] Feed and housing

Commercial rabbit pellets are often recommended, though this is a disputed claim amongst rabbit rescue shelters and commercial breeders. Pellets are high in fat, which will render a fatter rabbit, but is not a healthy choice for longevity concerns.) Feed 1/4 cup of pellets per 5 pounds of body weight every day. For rabbits under 8 months of age, feed unlimited plain alfalfa pellets. 2 cups of fresh rinsed greens, vegetables (stay away from greens high in iron) should be given daily, and fresh fruit sparingly. Free choice hay, such as timothy-grass, should be unlimited and changed daily. Alfalfa hay should not be offered free choice to rabbits over 8 months of age because it is too rich in calcium.^[2]

Many rabbits do very well in the home. They can be litter box trained and are quite fastidious groomers. Be aware that rabbits love to chew so make sure all wires are safely hidden or in protective plastic covers and understand that some of your furniture may be nibbled. If you choose to cage your rabbit, make sure the cage is at least 2 feet by 2 feet by 4 feet. If the cage has a wire bottom make certain you give the rabbit a plank or sea grass mats to stand on so his feet won’t get damaged from being on the wire all the time. Provide a hide box or shelter and plenty of straw for bedding.

[edit] Common diseases and disorders

As with other rabbits, Californians do not do well in high or low temperatures. They are prone to hairball obstructions and matted coats if not cared for properly. Rabbits need daily grooming to remove loose hair. Other health concerns include ear mites, Pasteurella, respiratory disease, dental problems, urinary bladder stones and fractured backs. Be quick to notice any changes in diet or litter box habits and contact a rabbit veterinarian immediately. The average life span of a breeding Californian rabbit is 5 to 6 years. By spaying or neutering early in life, you can increase their life expectancy to around 10 years.

[edit] References