Californian rabbit

Appearance

The Californian rabbit has big ears (although not as large as the ears of Flemish Giants) and is large in size, weighing around 10 to 12 pounds. This breed's coloration is similar to the Himalayan, with a white body and colored points. The variety (color) is normally white with spots and they don't normally have any other color to them. The does usually get up to 12 pounds and the bucks only get up to 10-11 pounds.

Feed and housing

Commercial rabbit pellets are often recommended, though this is a disputed claim amongst rabbit rescue shelters and commercial breeders. Pellets are high in fat and protein needed for a healthy rabbit.Feed 1/4 cup of pellets per 5 pounds of body weight every day. Ensure a steady supply of fresh water or the rabbit may not eat the feed ration. For rabbits under 8 months of age, feed unlimited plain grass pellets. House rabbits may be fed 2 cups of fresh rinsed greens, (NO iceberg lettuce) vegetables (stay away from greens high in iron) should be given daily, and fresh fruit sparingly. Free choice hay, such as timothy-grass, should be unlimited and changed daily. Alfalfa hay should not be offered free choice to rabbits over 8 months of age because it is too rich in calcium.

Outside housing should protect the rabbit from wind and rain/snow. Most breeders use wire cages to keep rabbits clean and healthy. Cages are typically 30 inches by 30 inches in size, with nursing does and grow out pens being 30 inches by 36 inches. 14 gauge GAW wire is ideal, as the thicker diameter provides more support for heavy breeds. A resting mat, such as a sheet of wood or slotted plastic, can be placed in the cage to reduce chances of sore hocks. The floor wire should be 1" x 0.5" welded wire, and the walls should be either 1"X 1" or 1" x 2". Never use hardware cloth for flooring as this is too rough on feet and will cause sore hocks. Poultry netting should also be avoided as it is often insecure. Avoid using treated wood, cedar, or painted wood as this can be toxic to rabbits. Intact rabbits should be kept in individual cages once they are over 4 months of age to prevent fighting and accidental breeding.

Many pet rabbits do very well in the home. They can be litter box trained and are quite fastidious groomers, they can also be trained to wear a harness and leash. Be aware that rabbits love to chew so make sure all wires are safely hidden or in protective plastic covers and understand that some of your furniture, books and baseboards may be nibbled. They can be contained in an exercise pen to prevent damage to your house. If you choose to cage your rabbit, make sure the cage is at least 2 feet by 2 feet by 4 feet. If the cage has a wire bottom make certain you give the rabbit a plank or sea grass mats to stand on so his feet won’t get damaged from being on the wire all the time. It is preferred that the bottom wire of the cage be 1/2 x 1/2 - large enough for the bunny berries to go through, but small enough to keep their feet and nails from being caught in the wire. Provide a hide box or shelter and plenty of straw for bedding. The rabbits are wonderful pets, with a very nice easy-going temperament. They enjoy empty oatmeal boxes, a juice can (paper) with the ends cut off and stuffed with hay, a bell hanging from the top of their cage. You should also provide chewing material, such as untreated pieces of lumber or small twigs from trees.

Californians are an excellent rabbit breed. They produce large litters of 8-12 kits. Californians are a breed developed for show and meat purposes.