It is evident that long-haired rabbits have been prized for years now. But like long-haired dogs and cats, not many people appreciate the effort that will be needed to maintain this special type of coat.
Long-haired rabbits are sometimes presented to rabbit rescue groups in a terrible state due to neglected coats. So, if you think you lack the time for a rabbit full grooming expedition, you might have to consider one of the short-haired breeds!
Of course, rabbit constantly groom themselves and each other. Excessive grooming related to a poor-quality matted haircoat, can lead to the ingestion of large amounts of hair, forming hair balls in the stomach.
Rabbit full grooming not only makes it possible for you to remove this loose hair and matts, but it is also a chance for a close examination of the whole rabbit. When perfectly done, this is a wonderful socializing and bonding activity between you and your pet rabbit.
So, how do you care for your short-hair coat rabbit? Well, be sure to use a soft-bristled brush for day-to-day care. A weekly groom is usually enough, except when molting. Sticker brushed and cat molting combs can do the trick when grooming short-haired rabbits.
If more grooming is needed, then you should start with a wide-toothed comb. Once you’ve brushed the whole rabbit, repeat with a fine-toothed comb and finish with a flea comb between the ears, round the anus, under the chin, and in the armpits. You should then use a soft-bristled brush to get done with the job.
As for long-hair coat care, you need to comb or have it clipped every day. The fur on the hindfeet is thicker and protects the foot, so leave it alone. Combing a long-haired coat takes about 20-40 minutes each day, so some people would rather clip their long-haired rabbit every four to six weeks, and then comb each day as described above.
It would be ideal to consider using round ended scissors but won’t penetrate the matts as well as scissors with sharp ends. Be sure to rest a comb against the skin as protection whilst you are scissoring, and don’t ‘tent’ the skin while you are cutting.
Keep in mind unhandled rabbits find the entire process distressing so they have to be de-matted under sedation or general anesthetic. Only then can you go about this expedition with ease.
