A calm and forthcoming companion , the Himalayan rabbit is one of the sure-enough rabbit breeds . Their food coloring , similar to a Himalayan cat , has made them a popular breed among bunny buff everywhere . Although commonly purchased or acquire for show purposes , they can make an excellent dearie for adults and children likewise .
Origin and History
Although their name refers to the Himalayan Mountains , there is disputation regarding their origin . Theories suppose they can be traced back to the Middle or Far East ; although coney devotee and scientists each have their own idea of where they came from . Theirhistory is vague , but it ’s think they were derive from argent rabbit .
One theory of how Himalayan rabbits go far in the United States is that they come from England during the " Belgian Hare Boom " in the early 20th century when breeder were drawn to cony furs . They existed prior to the introduction of rex hare and were consequently highly valued for their typical pelt character . They were one of the very first rabbit strain to be recognized by theAmerican Rabbit Breeders Association(ARBA ) .
Himalayan Rabbit Names
Since the breed has been around for so long and has possible origins in several countries , it has a variety ofbreed names . It is also have intercourse as the black nosed rabbit from China , the Chinese rabbit , black olfactory organ , the Russian rabbit , and the Egyptian smut . They are often known by the nickname " himmie " in the United States .
Appearance
Himalayans aresmall rabbits , weighing about 3 to 5½ pounds when fully grown . They are the only " cylindrical " breed the ARBA accepts . This dead body character is longsighted and appears round when viewed point on with the lapin adulterate out . It ’s sometimes referred to as snake - like .
The Himalayan is similar toSiameseandHimalayan catswhen it comes to their pelage colour . Their body is white with " points " on their ears , nose , and feet . Black is the most vulgar point vividness , but you could also feel Himalayans with black , spicy , chocolate , and lilac points . Their fur is light and is " flyback " which means the fur moves back to its original property if you tend your hired hand through it .
They requireminimal groomingaside from a weekly brush . They will moult during exuviate time of year . An interesting fact about Himalayans is that their fur is all white or grey when they are kits and their points follow in as they get older .
Temperament
Himalayans are patrician lapin that savour human contact . They are considered one of thebest rabbitsto have as favorite for their easy - going demeanour and rest with kid . They are one of the most set - back rabbits and love snuggling and handling . Althoughall rabbitscan bite , the Himalayan is known for seldom doing so .
While they are sweet and loving , they are also quite level-headed and will ask genial stimulation to be happy . you could provide them with cat toys and even teach themtricks with a clicker . They also will necessitate time out of their batting cage to drift around on a regular basis .
Diet
Himalayan rabbitseat a dietof 70 per centum Timothy hay , 25 per centum commercially made rabbit pellets , and 5 percent fresh yield and vegetables . They also require a tidy sum of hay to manducate on or their teeth can become overgrown , leading to a painful dental experimental condition . When supplementing withfresh foods , make indisputable they are hare - friendly , as some fruits and vegetables canmake them sick .
Health
The middling Himalayan hare will live anywhere between 4 to 5 years . Himalayans do n’t have many medical business organisation specific to their breed . They are susceptible to common problems determine in all rabbit include :
Cage Requirements
Although you could keep them outsidein a hutch , indoors is recommended . In cold temperature , their pelt can actually become darker and child Himalayans do not handle the cold well . Your minimumcage sizeshould be 24 inches by 15 inches with awire frameand solid bottom . There should be good deal of elbow room for your rabbit to move around and if you keep more than one you should double the size of at least the lower limit needed . you could line the cagewith beddingsuch as Carefresh or chaff and it should be cleaned often with a complete changeover once a calendar week .
Purchasing or Adopting a Himalayan Rabbit
If you ’re looking to grease one’s palms your own Himalayan , visit the internet site of theAmerican Himalayan Rabbit Association . you’re able to also find breeder information onthe ARBAandUSA Rabbit Breederswebsites . The average price for a Himalayan is about $ 25 to $ 60 , with show rabbit at the higher price final stage . Himalayans are coarse rabbits so you should be able to find them in shelters as well . you’re able to use thePetfinderandAdopt - A - Petwebsites to look for them by breed .
you could also look into deliverance groups admit the following :
Is the Himalayan Rabbit for You?
The Himalayan rabbit has been a beloved pet for almost a C in the United States . It ’s promiscuous to see why with their endearing , calm temperament and cuddly behavior with children and adults . Their striking people of color and easy - to - care - for pelt also make them the perfect choice for the rabbit novice pet owner .
