Lionhead Bunny Care

Rabbits are kept as pets by people that enjoy small, calm quiet animals. Lionhead rabbits are known for the large mane of fur these bunnies have, although not every lionhead bunny will have a mane. Lionhead bunnies are friendly and outgoing if raised correctly and make excellent pets for people that want a long haired rabbit. However, lionhead bunnies have special needs that owners must be aware of before adopting one.

  1. Diet

    • Lionhead bunnies have long, thick fur. As they groom themselves, they digest fur, which can create a fur blockage in their intestines. A diet of timothy hay helps prevent fur blockages and keeps a lionhead rabbit's digestive tract healthy. A basic diet of commercial rabbit feed should also be supplied. Fresh fruits and vegetables are a source of important vitamins and minerals lionhead rabbits require. A fresh water bottle is required at all times.

    Grooming

    • Lionhead bunnies are long haired and have a thick mane of fur around their necks. Some lionheads have a double mane, which means they have even more fur than other rabbit breeds. Lionhead bunnies' manes require brushing and combing to prevent tangles and matting. A lionhead bunny's thick under coat can mat if left unattended, and mats can create skin sores. Brushing your lionhead bunny's tail and bottom prevents its long fur from getting messy.

    Housing

    • Lionhead bunnies are healthiest and happiest when kept indoors near their human companions; outdoor conditions can cause injury, illness and predators. Indoor rabbits that are given lots of time outside of their cage require only a medium sized cage; lionhead rabbits with less human interaction require a bigger cage. Lionhead rabbit cages must have solid bottoms; wire bottomed cages can cause sores on a rabbit's feet. Lionhead rabbits cannot survive extreme heat or cold.

    Socialization

    • Lionhead bunnies are playful and enjoy having time with their human companions to play and exercise. Lionhead bunnies enjoy toys they can chew on such as commercial toys as well as items like leftover cardboard. Lionhead bunnies may enjoy climbing through tubes and exploring boxes. Shredded paper is a good distraction for lionhead bunnies. Lionhead bunnies require attention and play time at least twice a day. Lonely lionhead bunnies may destroy property and become depressed.