New Zealand rabbits are one of the largest and heaviest rabbit breeds in the world. These giants are very calm and gentle, being famous for their relaxed and friendly nature.
These rabbits have spread throughout the world, reaching almost every country. Do you want to know where the breed of New Zealand rabbits came from? Are you interested in meeting these peculiar giant rabbits? Today, from our site, we want to tell you all the details about these furry ones in this file about New Zealand rabbits.
Origin of the New Zealand Rabbit
Although its name may seem that the New Zealand rabbit comes from the country of the same name, its origin is actually quite distant geographically speaking. These rabbits actually arose in 1919 in California, when American white rabbits were crossed with Flemish giant rabbits and Angora rabbits. Originally, this rabbit was widely used as a laboratory animal and in the meat industry, although today it is most commonly found as a pet.
From these crosses came the New Zealand white rabbit, which was registered by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in the year 1920. Currently, different colors apart from white are official, as we will see below.
Characteristics of the New Zealand Rabbit
The New Zealand rabbit is one of the giant rabbit breeds, as its weight can reach up to 5.5 kilograms ! In general, the average weight is about 4.5 kilograms except in the case of red New Zealanders, as this variety is the smallest, not exceeding 3, 5 kilos of weight. Their life expectancy ranges between 8 and 12 years approximately.
These rabbits have an extremely muscular and compact body, which is also very long, with a proportionally large, wide and round head. The legs are long, especially the rear ones, and they have great strength. Their cheeks are round and their ears are long and erect.
Its coat is short and very soft, distinguishing four varieties depending on its colour. This hair grows close to the skin and is satiny.
Colors of the New Zealand Rabbit
There are 4 colors accepted by the ARBA:
- Rojo: rabbits of this variety have a shiny steel-colored coat and brown eyes, which are deep, reaching the root of the hair. They can have a somewhat different belly tone, not being admitted as a rabbit breed if it is too different. They may also have a whitish hue at the base of the tail, as well as on the footpads.
- Black: His coat is jet black, always uniform, having a slate blue undercolor and dark brown eyes.
- Broken: being the most recent variety, the broken have the coat of any color of the breed (red or black) combined with white. They have a pattern called broken, marked or broken, in which the colored parts have to match the standard of the red and black varieties.
- White: the first to emerge, the fur is pure white, with pink eyes. Stains or discolorations are not allowed on any part of the animal's body.
New Zealand Rabbit Character
New Zealand rabbits have a friendly character, being very sociable and peaceful rabbitsThey are never usually aggressive, being very sensitive and attentive with their loved ones. They really like to receive caresses, hugs and stay in the lap of their owners for hours, as well as having good times playing games. Here we teach you how to play with a rabbit?
They are suitable rabbits for living with small children, since they are calm, allow themselves to be manipulated and are also very patient and understanding. Of course, they must always treat each other with love and respect, whatever the age of the person who treats them.
They also adapt with remarkable ease to coexistence with other animals, especially when both parties have gotten used to it early. In general, it can be said that the New Zealand rabbit is suitable for any family, as it gets along well with both smaller families or single people, as well as large multigenerational families.
New Zealand rabbit care
These rabbits require a space adapted for them. This space, which should not be a cage (because in addition to its large size, it is always advisable to keep rabbits in smaller spaces), must meet a series of requirements.
One of them is that it be wide enough, leaving the animal enough space to move freely, to be able to play and have its drinker and his hay, as well as toys and others at his disposal. We can also include a corner unit where they relieve themselves, something they get used to very easily. In addition, it is important to know that rabbits must be on a relatively soft ground, otherwise they develop splantar sores, which can degenerate into lameness and serious complications, not to mention highly painful.
As for their diet, this must be based on a combination of hay, which must be of good quality, vegetables and fresh fruits, the most beneficial being green leafy vegetablesIt is also essential that they have access to fresh water at all times, because only then can they be properly hydrated. Here we explain in greater depth What do rabbits eat?
New Zealand rabbits' coats require minimal grooming, including regular brushing This brushing should be done with a special comb or brush for rabbits, and it will be enough to carry out an exhaustive weekly brushing.
New Zealand Rabbit He alth
No diseases typical or typical of New Zealand rabbits in particular have been detected, and they do not present known congenital pathologies linked to their breed. However, a number of diseases to which all rabbits are susceptible must be considered.
One of the biggest problems in rabbits is related to their teeth, which never stop growing, so if The teeth do not wear down properly, various problems arise. Some of the most frequent are abscesses, malocclusions, infections and dental and gum diseases. To avoid this, the rabbit's mouth should be checked regularly, monitoring dental wear and going to the veterinarian if alterations of any kind are observed.
In the same way, you should also keep an eye on their ears, eyes and nose, because their poor condition is a clear sign that something is not going well. Periodic veterinary check-ups must be carried out, it is also recommended to follow the vaccination schedule and carry out regular deworming.
New Zealand rabbit for adoption
If we have thought about adopting a rabbit from New Zealand, we have to take into consideration a series of aspects. The first is whether we will be able to take care of him adequately throughout his life. This means that we will be able to serve you correctly, providing you with company, attention and care at all times. That is, everything that requires the care of the rabbit.
It also refers to the fact that we can provide them with everything they need to be in good condition and be happy To do this, we must have an adapted space, give them a quality diet and ensure time for daily activities and games. Only then can they be completely he althy and happy.
If we are totally sure that we can comply with all of the above, it is strongly advised to turn to animal associations or protectors in our area, Well, they may have a specimen for adoption or foster care that can be adapted to our needs.
