How to Groom Angoras

Angora rabbits are a specialized breed prized for their fluffy wool coats. They are actually bred for show, just like purebred dogs and cats. Because of the Angora̵7;s long wool coat, it is essential to groom the rabbit regularly so it doesn̵7;t develop mats. Whether you are grooming your Angora for an upcoming show, or just so your rabbit looks his best, you will need a few pieces of grooming equipment to do the job right. When you first groom your rabbit, he may move around a lot, but after a few grooming sessions you will build up trust and you and your rabbit may both come to enjoy the grooming ritual.

Things You'll Need

  • Grooming blow dryer
  • Grooming scissors
  • Slicker brush
  • Nail clippers
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Instructions

    • 1

      Prepare all the tools and equipment you will need to complete the grooming. Lay them all in an easy to reach location so you don̵7;t have to get up and move the rabbit during the session. This makes it easier for you and the rabbit.

    • 2

      Sit down and lay the rabbit between your knees. Use your grooming blow dryer to blow cool air over the rabbit̵7;s stomach and back. This will blow out all the fine dander ̵2; which looks like white dust ̵2; and it will also help prevent mats. You should do this frequently to remove excess dander because the more you do it, the less dander will build up.

    • 3

      Use a pair of small grooming scissors to trim the hair. As a general rule of thumb, trim the rabbit̵7;s coat shorter than one inch to prevent mats. Using an electric clipper is not effective on Angora rabbits because it will clog with the thick wool and it can frighten the animal, resulting in injury. Scissors give you more control because you can trim only the areas that need trimming.

    • 4

      Use the slicker brush and run it over the rabbit̵7;s entire coat to smooth out the fur. When brushing, you are not attempting to remove hair like you would when grooming a dog. Instead, you should just be using it on the tips of the rabbit̵7;s fur for aesthetic purposes.

    • 5

      Use a nail clipper to keep the rabbit̵7;s claws. Every one or two months, clip the rabbit̵7;s nails carefully so they are not long. This will make your rabbit look more polished and will also prevent him from scratching you with his sharp claws.