Do you want to discover the biggest rabbits in the world? Nicknamed the Kings of Rabbits because they are the largest of any breed in existence, Continental Giant Rabbits aren't just prized for their spectacular size.
These giant bunnies are incredibly affectionate and friendly, making them popular among bunny lovers. For example, did you know that they are often compared to a dog for their behavior? Sociable, playful and very, very calm, these are just some of the defining characteristics of Continental Giant Rabbits, will you stick around to find out the rest in this AnimalPlanet feature?
Origin
- Europe
- Belgium
Origin of the Continental Giant Rabbit
The continental giant rabbits are the descendants of the famous giant rabbits of Flanders. Like Flemish Giants, Continental Giant Rabbits are one of the oldest recorded domestic rabbit breeds. Specifically, these rabbits are believed to have appeared as early as the 16th century. However, the first official standards were not developed until the end of the 19th century, since it was in 1893 that the first standard of this type was created.
Around the same time the first standards were registered, these rabbits set foot on American soil, becoming a very popular breed in North America. Although it should be noted that the breed has not yet been recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association, it is recognized by the British Rabbit Council, which distinguishes between colored rabbits and white rabbits.
Physical Characteristics of the Continental Giant Rabbit
The fact that the continental giant rabbit is considered the largest rabbit in the world is not a coincidence, because this lagomorph, which normally weighs around 6 kilos, can easily reach up to 10 kilos. The life expectancy of this rabbit is quite short compared to other breeds, ranging from 5 to 7 years.
They have a broad body, with a strongly developed musculature, hind legs longer than the front legs and a semi-arched back. Its head is large and it is even larger and wider in males. In females, there is usually a conspicuous dewlap. Its ears are thick, erect, long and end in rounded tips. His eyes are round and have a lively and expressive gaze.
The coat of continental giant rabbits consists of short, dense, thick and very shiny fur. They have an undercoat made up of softer, woolly fur that insulates them from cold and humidity.
The colors of the continental giant rabbit
The continental giant rabbit can have the following colors:
- Black.
- White.
- Gray, both clear and steel.
- The sand.
- Beige.
- Fawn.
Continental Giant Rabbit Character
The Continental Giant Rabbit has a well-deserved reputation as the most sociable and friendly of all rabbits. They are patient, outgoing, affectionate and very tame, allowing themselves to be touched and even carried very easily.
They get along very well with children, who generally like to carry them from place to place in their arms, which the continental giant really appreciates, as he loves all kinds and forms of emotional displays .
They are very sociable rabbits, which also means that they need constant contact to be in a good mood.In other words, they are not rabbits that tolerate loneliness well, neither prolonged nor temporary, because they need near-constant affection and companionship.
Although their large size might suggest that they need a lot of space, this is not the case, as they are very calm and do not tend to run around constantly, nor to fidget. Therefore, a space in which they can move freely and where they have objects, food, water and toys at their disposal will suffice.
To enjoy the moments spent with your continental giant rabbit, you can consult this other article from PlanèteAnimale on How to play with a rabbit?
Continental Giant Rabbit Care
The most important care for the continental giant rabbit is, without a doubt, giving it attention and affection.
Although they do not need too much space, it is generally advisable to give them, if possible, access to outdoor spaces, whether it is a garden, a a terrace or other, where they can lie down, take the sun and breathe fresh air.
Their diet should be no different than any other rabbit, although the amount of food they eat may vary. That is to say, their diet should be based on hay, along with fresh vegetables, occasional fruits and specific food for rabbits. Adequate nutrition guarantees wear and tear on their constantly growing teeth, in order to avoid pain, malformations, etc. To find out what you can give your rabbit, you can consult this other article from PlanèteAnimal on recommended fruits and vegetables for rabbits.
Continental Giant Rabbit He alth
The Giant Continental Rabbit can suffer from a number of ailments due to its large size. One of the most common and worrying is that related to his joints. These problems are usually related to overweight or obesity. This is why it is very important that our animal's diet is balanced, in other words no excess or deficiency.
To avoid dental problems, it is advisable to monitor the wear of the teeth and to visit the veterinarian if alarming signs are observed, or in the event that the rabbit shows signs of pain or illness. Some of these symptoms are apathy, aggression, lethargy or reluctance to eat and/or drink.
It is also important to carry out regular veterinary checks and to vaccinate your rabbit against dangerous diseases such as myxomatosis or viral haemorrhagic disease, both of which are fatal for rabbits.
Adopt a continental giant rabbit
If we want to share our home with a continental giant rabbit, it is very important to start by assessing its needs and requirements, being self-critical and judging if we will be able to satisfy them all.
Also worth noting that although many people think rabbits are short-lived, as we've seen a continental giant can live up to 7 years, so adopt it means a long-term commitment that we will accept by welcoming him into our family.
If, after having examined all its characteristics and needs, you are sure you want to adopt it, we recommend that you go to animal associations, shelters in your area, to find out if they have a continental giant rabbit to adopt. If not, you can wait for one of them to arrive, because by adopting you are helping to prevent animal abandonment, by giving them a chance to get off the streets and part of a family.
Pictures of Continental Giant Rabbit
