🦁 Introduction

The Lionhead rabbit, easily recognized by its distinctive “mane” of fur around the head and throat, has surged in popularity due to its charming appearance and friendly temperament. In this 2025 vet-approved guide, we'll cover everything a dedicated owner needs to know—from grooming and diet to health checks and safe home environments.

📖 Breed Overview

• Size: A dwarf breed weighing ~2.5–3.5 lb (1.1–1.6 kg) :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}
• Mane gene: One (single) or two (double) copies of the “mane” gene affect fluffiness :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}
• Coat & color: Short body fur with a woolly collar; available in wide color variations :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}
• Background: Originated in Belgium/France via Swiss Fox × Netherland Dwarf cross; ARBA recognized in 2013 :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}

💞 Temperament & Social Needs

• Friendly, intelligent, playful—can bond strongly with humans and other rabbits :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}
• Generally gentle, but can be skittish or feisty under stress; careful handling is essential :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}
• Litter trainable, thrives with at least one rabbit companion for social enrichment :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}

🧼 Grooming & Coat Care

• Brush weekly: Prevent mats by routine brushing—daily during shedding :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}
• Mane maintenance: Inspect the collar, cheeks and chest—trim gently if knots form :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}
• Nail trimming: Every 4–6 weeks to protect feet and posture :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}
• Bathing: Avoid full baths—spot-clean only to maintain coat health and rabbit stress levels.

🍽️ Diet & Nutrition

• Hay: >70% of diet composed of clean, dust-free grass hay (e.g., Timothy) :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}
• Leafy greens: Provide daily—safe options like romaine, cilantro, parsley in appropriate amounts.
• Pellets: Small handful of high-fiber, low-calcium pellets (≈¼ cup/5 lb) :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}
• Water: Always fresh—preferably in a stable bowl or glass bottle :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}
• Treats: Occasional fruit; avoid sugary, starchy human food to protect gut health.

🏡 Habitat, Exercise & Enrichment

• Housing: Spacious, solid-bottom enclosure (min 6 × 2 ft) with soft substrate—avoid wire floors :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}
• Exercise: At least 2–4 hours of supervised floor time daily :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}
• Enrichment: Provide chew toys, tunnels, hideaways; rotate weekly to stimulate curiosity.
• Companionship: Ideal to keep in bonded pairs—introductions should be gradual and monitored :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}

🩺 Health Concerns & Veterinary Care

• Dental health: Monitor chewing and teeth alignment—hay + chew toys support maintenance :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}
• GI stasis: High-fiber diet prevents gut slowdown; lethargy/loss of appetite—urgent vet consultation :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}
• Obesity: Monitor pellet intake and exercise to avoid weight-related issues.
• Spay/neuter: Recommended—prevents reproductive cancers and behavioral issues :contentReference[oaicite:21]{index=21}
• Vaccination: Regional vaccines (e.g., RHDV2, myxomatosis) should be discussed with your vet.
• Annual vet checks: Include teeth, weights, fecal; bring diet and environment photos :contentReference[oaicite:22]{index=22}

👶 Handling & Safety Tips

• Support hind legs and back—avoid sudden lifting or dropping.
• Never pick up by ears or scruff; instead scoop gently under chest and hindquarters :contentReference[oaicite:23]{index=23}
• Introduce handling slowly—read body language to avoid stress-related reactions.
• Ideal for older, calm children under supervision—some may startle easily :contentReference[oaicite:24]{index=24}

🧾 Quick Care Checklist

🐇 Lifespan & Cost Considerations

• Life expectancy: 7–10 years with proper care :contentReference[oaicite:25]{index=25}
• Initial cost: $20–$125 depending on breeder or rescue :contentReference[oaicite:26]{index=26}
• Monthly care: $40–$60 for hay, bedding, toys, and routine vet visits :contentReference[oaicite:27]{index=27}

💡 Vet-Pro Tips for 2025

• Begin grooming early to build trust and ease stress.
• Use soft rubber mats on exercise floors to protect feet.
• Rotate chew toys weekly to prevent boredom and dental issues.
• Ask your vet about seasonal vaccinations and RHDV2 coverage.
• Track weight monthly for early detection of health changes.

👋 Final Thoughts

The Lionhead rabbit is a delightful, sociable companion with unique grooming needs and a gentle spirit. With careful attention to diet, habitat, grooming, and regular veterinary care, your mane-clad friend can thrive for many joyous years. 🐇

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