Harlequin Rabbit: Characteristics, Care And Feeding
If you hear about the harlequin rabbit, it is likely that it sounds familiar to you, as it is one of the most adorable animals in the world. This breed of rabbits is highly appreciated by fans and associations.
However, did you know that it was constituted and deposed as a race throughout the 20th century? This anecdote and different aspects of its characteristics, care and food will be told below. Do not miss it!
Harlequin rabbit characteristics
Being a breed of a domestic lagomorph, the harlequin rabbit belongs to the species Oryctolagus cuniculus . It also responds to the names of “Japanese archery” or “dwarf archery”. In some places, he is known as “the rabbit clown.” due to the curious pattern of its fur.
1. Its origin is unknown
According to the annals of history, the harlequin rabbit is believed to have appeared in France in the 1880s. It arose from crossing wild rabbits with semi-wild Dutch variants, which featured a specific coat.
2. Its coat has 2 variants: the magpie color and the Japanese color
This rabbit is recognized for its short, shiny coat, with its unique color traits. According to experts, the harlequin rabbit’s coat has 2 characteristic patterns, which are as follows:
- Japanese: on the orange color other shades are spread and mixed, such as blue, black, soft violet or chocolate color.
- Magpie: the white color predominates, on which the different colors are based. Normally, the tones tend to mix, among which blue, black, brown or light purple stand out.
Although it is curious that one of the patterns receives the name of “magpie”, this is because they remember the bird that gives it its nickname. This bird is characterized by the colors that are also manifested in the rabbit.
3. The harlequin rabbit is a small breed.
In relation to weight, in its adult phase this mammal ranges between 2.7 and 3.6 kilograms. Within rabbits, it is considered small in size, since there are giant breeds. When looking at her bearing and soft features, the word that comes up is adorable. This is due to its large head, accompanied by rounded and upright ears.
Feeding
When it comes to feeding the harlequin rabbit, it follows a fairly specific diet. Normally, their daily menu consists of hay mixed with a very specific feed.
In any case, at least 2 or 3 times a week it is convenient to vary your diet a little. Of course, the food must be cut into small pieces and the seeds removed. Some examples are as follows :
- Fruits: like apple, pear or melon.
- Vegetables: the best known is carrot, but there are cucumber or spinach.
- Vegetables: Rabbits love dandelions, so they can serve as a reward.
Harlequin rabbit care
When it comes to receiving a harlequin rabbit at home, it is convenient that every tutor knows the following aspects. Remember that domestic lagomorphs are very active and therefore require a lot of space and entertainment.
1. You can teach them to relieve themselves in a box
If the rabbit is educated from a young age, it can relieve itself in one place. Normally, a box is recommended, similar to the cat litter box, but adapted to its size. Of course, it is essential to eliminate excrement daily.
2. The comb is your essential companion
Like cats, dogs, or other pets with dense fur, it is appropriate to groom this pet periodically. In this way, you preserve your hair health and avoid intestinal problems. As the harlequin rabbit is characterized by having short hair, brushing it once a day is worth it. Within the different types of animals, it does not need much care.
3. Does the harlequin rabbit need a lot of space?
In reality, rabbits can live in different places, such as cages or outdoor facilities. Ideally, you can build a nest with straw, in an area with wood. It is essential to clean his cage or corner thoroughly once a week.
In addition, it is essential that you have adequate space for your size. If it is possible that the rabbit is not locked up, it is better that it runs freely through the house: for this, the area must be prepared to avoid accidents.
4. Check their nails and teeth!
Another aspect that must be monitored in these animals are the nails and teeth. In relation to nails, they grow continuously throughout their lives. Therefore, if they hinder the mobility of the animal, you should go to the vet to cut them.
Teeth, on the other hand, also grow non-stop throughout your life. Therefore, the harlequin rabbit must have wood to gnaw. Thus, the growth of your teeth is controlled and problems when eating are avoided.
5. They are sociable animals, but with individuals of their species
The harlequin rabbit is a very peaceful and calm animal, so it has no problem being domesticated. Although it is quite scary, it is very sociable and its coexistence is recommended, either between 2 males or male and female – previously castrated.
In short, the harlequin rabbit is mostly known for the pattern of its fur. However, we have seen other details: his straight hair, the shape of his patterns, his calm character and other things.
Each and every one of these traits make it a great companion animal for humans. Finally, if you have any questions about his health, do not hesitate to go to the vet, he will know how to indicate the steps you should follow.
