New Zealand rabbits are one of the largest and most robust rabbit breeds in the world. These big guys are very quiet and peaceful, and are famous for their relaxed and friendly personality.

These rabbits have spread all over the world, reaching almost every country. Want to know where the New Zealand rabbit breed comes from? Are you interested in meeting these giant rabbits in particular? Today at Animal Expert, we want to tell you all the details about these furry animals on this New Zealand rabbit leaf.

• Although.
• By name.
• It may seem that the New Zealand rabbit originated in the country of the same name.
• Its origin is actually quite remote geographically.
• These rabbits appeared in California in 1919.
• When American white rabbits were crossed with giant flemish rabbits and angora rabbits.
• Originally.
• This rabbit was widely used as a laboratory animal and in the meat industry.
• Although it is now more common to find it as a pet.

From these crosses was born the White Rabbit of New Zealand, registered by the American Association of Rabbit Breeders (ARBA) in 1920. Currently, different colors are officially accepted in addition to white, as we will see below.

The New Zealand Rabbit is one of the breeds of giant rabbits because it can weigh up to 5.5 kg! In general, the average weight is about 4.5 kg, except for New Zealand reds, since this variety is the smallest, not exceeding 3.5 kg. Its life expectancy varies between 8 and 12 years.

These rabbits have an extremely muscular and compact body, as well as very long, with a proportionally large, wide and round head. The legs are long, especially the hind legs, and have great strength. Its cheeks are round and its ears are long and straight.

Its fur is short and very soft, with four varieties, depending on the color. The hair grows very close to the skin and is satin.

ARBA accepts 4 colors

New Zealand rabbits have a friendly personality, being very sociable and peaceful rabbits. They are usually never aggressive, being very sensitive and attentive to their loved ones. They like to hug, hug and be on their owners’ lap for hours, as well as having fun playing.

They are rabbits suitable to live with young children, since they are quiet, accept that they are handled and are also very patient and understanding. Obviously, they should always be treated with love and respect, regardless of the age of the person who treats them.

They also adapt with considerable ease to coexistence with other animals, especially when there is an early addiction for both parties. In general, it can be said that the New Zealand rabbit is suitable for all families, as it suits families or singles well, as well as large multigenerational families.

These rabbits need a suitable space 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 less small spaces), must meet a number of requirements.

One of them is that it is large enough, leaving enough space for the animal to move freely, can play and have its feeder and hay, as well as toys and others at your disposal. You can also include a corner where they can do their needs, which they get used to very easily. In addition, it is important to know that rabbits must be in relatively soft ground; otherwise, they will develop plantar sores, which can cause limping and serious complications, not to mention very painful ones.

As for food, it should be based on a combination of hay, which should be of good quality, vegetables and fresh fruit, with green leafy vegetables being the most beneficial. It is also essential that they have access to fresh water at all times, as this is the only way to hydrate enough. Below, we explain more deeply the feeding of the rabbit.

The fur of New Zealand rabbits requires minimal care, including regular brushing. This brushing should be done with a special comb or brush for rabbits, and once a week will suffice.

To date, no specific or typical New Zealand rabbit disease has been detected, so they do not have any race-related congenital diseases. However, a number of diseases to which all rabbits are susceptible should be considered.

One of the biggest problems of rabbits are those related to teeth, which continue to grow, so if not used correctly several problems can arise. Some of the most common are abscesses, malocclusions, infections, and dental and gum diseases. To avoid them, the rabbit’s mouth should be checked regularly, monitoring tooth wear and going to the veterinarian if changes of any kind are observed.

Similarly, you should also be attentive to your ears, eyes and nose, as a bad condition in these areas is a clear sign that something is wrong. Veterinary examinations should be carried out regularly, and it is also recommended to follow the vaccination schedule and perform regular deworming.

If you are considering adopting a New Zealand rabbit, there are several aspects to consider. The first is if you can take good care of him throughout his life. This means serving you properly, providing you with companionship, care and care at all times. In other words, everything it takes to take care of the rabbit.

It also provides you with everything you need to be in good condition and be happy. This requires adequate space, quality food and daily activity and play. Only then can he be completely healthy and happy.

If you are absolutely sure that you can comply with all of the above, we strongly recommend that you call the associations or animal protectors in your area, as they may have a copy for adoption or receipt that can be adapted to your needs.