Why Do Himalayan Rabbits Have Two Chins?

Himalayan rabbits are one of the oldest breeds of rabbits and date back to ancient times. The history of the Himalayan rabbit is vague and there is no proven evidence as to where the breed came from. In fact, there are over 20 names given to the breed including the Russian, the Chinese, the Egyptian and the black nose, according to the American Himalayan Rabbit Association.

  1. Dewlap

    • A Himalayan rabbit doesn't actually have two chins, but instead has a longitudinal flap of skin called a dewlap, which hangs beneath the rabbit's lower jaw or neck area and resembles a double chin. Typically, a fatty dewlap is found on female rabbits. Pregnant Himalayans pluck fur from the dewlap to prepare a nest for their offspring.

    Cleaning

    • Himalayans have scent glands under their chins, and every once in a while you may need to clean out the chin scent glands, especially if you see a waxy buildup in this area. To clean your rabbit's glands, wash the rabbit in warm water and use scissors to trim away any matted fur. Take your rabbit to the veterinarian if you notice your rabbit's chin is inflamed.

    Health

    • You can determine if your Himalayan is at a healthy weight by looking at its dewlap. If the dewlap is big enough that it touches the rabbit's elbows when your rabbit is in the sitting position, your rabbit is obese. You should restrict your rabbit's diet until a healthy weight is achieved, or contact a veterinarian.

    Characteristics

    • Himalayans are known for being gentle and easy to handle. The rabbits stay smaller than other rabbit breeds, which allow them to be transported in smaller cages and eat less. Be warned that black Himalayans are the only true and pure breed of Himalayan rabbits. There are blue, chocolate and lilac Himalayans, but these are breeds that have been crossbred with other rabbits.