Domestic Rabbit

Domestic Rabbit Facts

Size	8-28 inches (20-70 cm) (dwarf/giant)
Speed	Unknown
Weight	2.4-26 pounds (1.1-12 kg) (dwarf/giant)
Lifespan	6-10 years
Food	Grass, hay, herbs, green fodder
Predators	-
Habitat	Loose, sandy soil, hedges, bushland, meadows
Order	Lagomorpha
Family	Leporidae
Scientific name	Oryctolagus cuniculus forma domestica
Characteristics	Domestic rabbit with short ears

Main Characteristics

Domestic rabbits are a domesticated version of wild rabbits and are popular pets. They are quite social creatures that enjoy digging, munching on food, and finding cozy hiding spots. Their most notable characteristics include their short ears, compact size, and adorable, plump tails.

A Brown Rabbit Is Sitting in the Grass A Brown Rabbit Is Sitting in the Grass - Photo: arlee/stock.adobe.com

Species

While you might often spot them nibbling on something, rabbits aren't rodents. Instead, they belong to the lagomorph family. There are around 88 different species, including the Arctic hare, European rabbit, black-tailed jackrabbit, and cottontail rabbit.

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Anatomy and Appearance

Size and Weight

There are many different breeds of domestic rabbits, ranging from tiny and lightweight to big and hefty. They can reach heights of 8-28 inches (20-70 cm) and weigh anywhere from 2.4-26 pounds (1.1-12 kg).

Ears

Domestic rabbits have much shorter ears compared to larger hares like the brown hare.

Teeth

Rabbits, like many other rodents, have teeth that never stop growing. Fortunately, their teeth don’t become excessively long because they naturally wear down while they munch on food.

Fur

Pet rabbits can come in a wide variety of fur colors and patterns, such as solid or multi-colored options like white, black, brown, red, and orange. Some breeds feature spots or large patches. More unique traits include dark eye rings, long fur, floppy ears, or a lengthy "mane." All of these characteristics have developed through selective breeding.

Rabbit Characteristics Rabbit Characteristics - Photo: Supachai/stock.adobe.com

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Records

The Biggest Pet Rabbit

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the giant rabbit Ralph was the world’s heaviest rabbit. It weighed 55 pounds (25 kg). Its owner had to spend about 62 dollars (60 euros) every week to provide enough food for Ralph.

The Smallest Pet Rabbit

The smallest species among pet rabbits is the Netherland dwarf rabbit. It weighs between 2.4 and 2.9 pounds (1,100-1,350 grams).

The Oldest Pet Rabbit

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, the world’s oldest rabbit reached an age of 17 years and two weeks. It was an Jersey Wooly that was born in 1997 and was called “Do”.

The Longest Rabbit Ears

Nipper's Geronimo, an English Lop rabbit, didn't need anyone to stretch his ears. He had the longest rabbit ears in the world! His ears measured an impressive 31.1 inches (79 cm) in length and 7.2 inches (8.4 cm) in width. The ears of our admin at animalfunfacts.net are 2.5 inches (6.5 cm) long and 1.3 inches (3.5 cm) wide. How big are your ears?

Most Babies

In fact, the Guinness Book of Records noted that a New Zealand rabbit set a record in 1999 by giving birth to an astonishing 24 babies!

Two Cute Rabbits in the Grass Two Cute Rabbits in the Grasss - Photo: tutye/stock.adobe.com

Behavior

Sounds

Pet rabbits communicate through a variety of sounds that indicate their feelings of comfort or discomfort. When they chatter their teeth or purr, it usually means they're content. However, if they're grinding their teeth, it could signal that they're in pain. Growling and hissing are clear signs of anger or frustration. Thumping on the ground can indicate unease, such as fear or excitement. If they let out high-pitched screams, it often means they're extremely frightened. It's essential for pet owners to understand these vocalizations to provide the best care for their furry friends.

Body Language

Domestic rabbits also communicate their feelings through body language. When they sniff around, explore, or nudge with their noses, it shows they are curious and interested, which is a friendly and positive behavior. Erect or forward-pointing ears are another good sign of their contentment. Additionally, when they groom each other's fur by licking, it’s a sweet way of showing affection. And when they're super happy, they dash around, leap into the air, and kick their back legs out joyfully.

Senses and Abilities

Sense of Sight

Rabbits don't need to turn their heads to see what’s behind them. They have a 360 degree view. They also have excellent long-distance vision, which means they can see distant objects clearly. This ability helps them quickly spot approaching enemies. However, their close-up vision isn't as sharp.

White Domestic Rabbit White Domestic Rabbit - Photo: Elizabett/Shutterstock

Rabbits as Pets

Pet Rabbits Are Diurnal

Hamsters, chinchillas and mice sleep during daytime. Rabbits are active during the day. This makes them very popular pets.

Proper Animal Care

Many owners experience sadness and frustration when their rabbits display aggressive behavior. This behavior usually indicates that the rabbits are unhappy due to improper care.

Rabbits Aren't Solitary Animals

Rabbits can experience boredom and loneliness if they're kept by themselves. They're social creatures and only thrive when they have companions of their own kind nearby.

Exercise

Rabbits need to move around and really dislike being cooped up in a small cage all day.

Pet Rabbits for First-Timers

In our pets section, you'll discover a variety of lovely rabbit breeds that are perfect for children and those new to pet ownership.

Gray and White Rabbit Standing on its Hind Legs Gray and White Rabbit Standing on its Hind Legs - Photo: kaew6566/stock.adobe.com

Reproduction

Rabbits typically have a gestation period of about 30 days and are born blind. Usually, a litter consists of 4-6 baby rabbits, although there can be more.

Fun Facts

• Agility and Tricks

Rabbits are often underestimated, but they can actually learn tricks just like dogs! There's even an agility sport for them where they navigate through tunnels and jump over bridges. Unfortunately, many pet rabbits don't get enough exercise, so providing them with these fun activities is a great way to keep them active and engaged.

• Kaninhop

In the Swedish sport known as "Kaninhop," pet rabbits leap over various hurdles. There are even European championships dedicated to this fun activity. This sport is beneficial for the rabbits, providing them with both physical exercise and mental stimulation. Don't forget: It's important to ensure that the rabbits are never stressed or coerced into jumping. Notably, a rabbit from Denmark set a record in 1997 by jumping an impressive height of 31.1 inches (99.5 cm).