ORIGIN.
According to ASNAC (National Association of Family Cuniculture), dwarfism is due only to the small size, but also to this type of rabbits, the hypophysis does not work well, producing an insufficient amount of growth hormone, which causes the formation of copies. viable but with characteristics of dwarfism.
The history of the dwarf rabbit dates back to the 19th century, in England, when the prohibition of the use of ermine fur forced a substitute to be found in the fur industry.
The best substitute was the Polish rabbit, a type of rabbit with white hair and red eyes of small size. These Polish rabbits were crossed with wild rabbits giving rise to a great variety of coats.
Once a small animal with soft, shiny and warm hair and a great variety of colors had been obtained, the export began, first to Holland where it would receive the m¡name of Dutch dwarf.
INDEX:
1.- BEHAVIOR.
2.- CHARACTERISTICS.
3.- CLASSIFICATION.
4.- NUTRITION.
5.- PRICE.
6.- CARE.
7.- HEALTH.
1.- BEHAVIOR:
Dwarf rabbits are usually affectionate, docile, intelligent, affable and friendly and have a friendly character.
They need a good environment at home so as not to develop unwanted behaviors such as fear or aggressiveness. They are nervous.
Dwarf rabbits are very territorial because they will not welcome other rabbits you may bring home.
If your intention is to get two rabbits, ideally they should be of different sexes and if you are going to take care of the litter, sterilize them. If you put two males together, they will fight all the time and if you opt for two females, one will want to dominate the other and they will end up fighting,
He is usually fearful and it is the responsibility of his caregiver to be able to offer him the necessary confidence so that he can live calmly in the presence of human beings.
I can also respond with fear to other pets, such as cats and dogs, so it is important to take this into account to help you adapt to assess if it is the right pet.
2.- CHARACTERISTICS:
Some of the dwarf rabbit breeds are:
- Dutch dwarf (Netherland dwarf).
- Mini Lion Lop.
- Dwarf Angora (Dwarf Angora).
- Belier dwarf.
- Miniature belier.
- Mini t-rex.
- Polish.
- Dwarf-lop.
- Mini cashmere lops.
Physically they are very similar to field rabbits, although with certain differences such as: Rabbits do not develop sexually until they are three months old.
EARS: With short ears, their length will be around 5 cm. and the 7 cm.
HAIR: The color of the hair can vary, the most common are rabbits with white, black, gray, or brown hair. The coat is usually short, and if well cared for, its texture is smooth. It is usually short, although there are also dwarf Angora rabbits.
HEAD: The head of the dwarf rabbit is rounder than that of the common rabbit, the snout is much flatter or flatter.
BODY: Rounder and more compact than the common rabbit.
WEIGHT: Between 800 gr. and 1.5 kg.
LENGTH: 34 cm.
LEGS: They are thin and short.
3.- CLASSIFICATION:
The classification of dwarf rabbits is divided into:
- Colored dwarf rabbit: Short-haired and rather broad-headed. The eyes of the colored dwarf rabbit are large and the color of its fur can be varied. The weight usually ranges between 0.9 and 1.3 kg. An example of a colored dwarf rabbit is the Polonese dwarf rabbit.
- Belier Rabbit: It is the largest within the category of dwarf rabbits, its weight can range between 1.3 and 1.7 kg. The hair of the Belier rabbit is short and the colors are varied. There is a variant that is the crossing of a Belier rabbit and an Angora rabbit, giving rise to the Belier de Angora rabbit.
- Angora rabbit: Very similar to the dwarf rabbit in color, except for the length of its hair, which in the dwarf angora rabbit is longer than normal. They are very affectionate and love to be caressed. Although it looks like a larger rabbit, it's all fur.
4.- NUTRITION:
Dwarf rabbits have a delicate digestive system and are prone to obesity. Take maximum care of your diet, 80% of it must be composed of hay and the other 20% of special feed for rabbits, vegetables and fruits allowed.
Fiber contributions are important, this will be achieved through Hay, which can be consumed without restrictions. Nor should you ever lack fresh and clean water.
To do this, at Glu Glu Pet we have the best 100% natural hay and feed brands that provide everything you need for your pet to grow healthy and happy, brands such as:
CUNIPIC:
ALPHA PRO JUNIOR RABIT , an al-in-one feed for your rabbit to grow healthy.
Your junior rabbit (up to 6 months of age) is going to have this product. It is a completely innovative range of products that provides junior rabbits with everything they need to grow up in a healthy and happy way.
Young rabbits (up to 6-8 months) have different nutritional requirements than adults.
They need more protein, more vitamin D3, more vitamin E, more iron.
And Alpha Pro takes it into account. At CUNIPIC they have carefully chosen the ingredients and additives for each pet, as is the case with the junior rabbit, to ensure healthy growth.
ADDITIVES AND INGREDIENTS:
Regarding additives, ALPHA PRO for young rabbits contains 22,000 IU/Kg. of vitamin A, 2,200 IU/Kg. of vitamin D3, 1,320 mgr./kgr. of vitamin E, in addition to the minerals zinc, copper and iron. And the ingredients are: Timothy hay, multifloral hay, pea fiber, vegetable by-products, alfalfa, vitamins. soy concentrate, sunflower husk, carrot, minerals, prebiotics, L-Lysine, herbal mix (basil, rosemary, fennel, mint, nettle), yucca extract.
ALL-IN-ONE.
In addition to the quality of the carefully chosen ingredients so that the diet is complete, balanced and healthy, the good thing about extruded food is that it is a diet based on al-in-one croquettes.
Extruding is a system that grinds the raw materials and cooks them, giving them all the same shape and size, like a croquette, allowing each of them to have all the nutrients and avoiding selective food (the animal choosing a series of foods and leave others)
Eat the amount your pet eats, it will have all the nutrients, vitamins, minerals and fibers ensuring good growth.
ADVANTAGES OF ALPHA PRO:
Alpha Pro extrusion is different from that of other brands, since cereals are not used and the cooking temperature is lower, because the nutrients are well preserved.
Among other advantages too, it has the optimal level of calcium. phosphorus and the high content of hay favors a lateral chewing movement, which recent studies have pointed out as the one that incites dental wear, essential in rabbits for optimal dental health.
ALPAHA PRO ADULT RABIT, a low-calorie diet, without grains or sugars and high in fiber for optimal health.
A completely innovative range of products that provides everything necessary for a rabbit in perfect health and well-being.
It is a diet without sugars or grains, low in calories and high in fiber, and prevents carcinogenic or cardiovascular diseases.
And all this without neglecting palatability, since tests have been carried out on hundreds of pets that have certified that they love ALPHA Pro.
THE HIGHEST FIBER DIET ON THE MARKET.
In the case of the adult rabbit, the ingredients of Alpha Pro are Timothy hay, multifloral hay, pea fiber, by-products of vegetable origin, sunflower husk, vitamins, minerals, cranberries, prebiotics, L-Lysine, yucca extract.
It is the diet on the market with the highest fiber value, helping intestinal transit.
OTHER ADVANTAGES:
Alpha Pro for adult rabbit contains minerals such as iron and vitamins A, D3 and E. But another very important aspect is the optimal level of calcium-phosphorus, for the prevention of kidney problems,
RIBERO HAY: AGRICULTURAL PRODUCER:
The company was created around 1976, when Ribero, a descendant of farmers and ranchers, decided to start an agricultural business on his own. Since then, the Ribero family has devoted itself to the business, exploring the land, caring for and improving the fields, and always trying to obtain the highest quality products.
They offer exclusive and unique products on the market, with the added value of carrying out the entire production process, from planting to distribution.
Ribero believes that innovation is in nature, and for this reason in our fields we work following the code of good agricultural practices, betting on technological innovation for cultivation, avoiding production in quantity and prioritizing product quality. The result of our work is high quality products, with a delicious colour, aroma and taste.
Ribero guarantees all the traceability of its products and certifies their quality, since we have contributed to animal feed for more than 35 years.
FESTUCA HAY:
It is an annual herbaceous plant, belonging to the grass family. The fodder plant is sown in the fall, grows during the spring and is harvested in the summer.
- Helps tooth wear.
- Its high content of insoluble fiber favors intestinal function, contributes to better digestion.
- It acts as an antioxidant and is an immune system enhancer. Due to its softness, your pet can use it as a bed for accommodation or rest.
MINORICS:
It is a family business dedicated to feeding high quality products for rabbits and rodents. Its natural products reflect the needs of animals in their wild origin, are based on selected ingredients to benefit the health of our pets and are backed by a team of specialized nutritionists and veterinarians who certify their quality.
SNACKS MINIORYCS:
Its snacks are divided into two ranges, one based on plants and flowers and another based on fruit and vegetables. It is made solely from 100% natural ingredients and strictly designed so that our rabbits and rodents can taste a wide variety of foods.
Thanks to these "treats" we can interact with our pets since the smells and flavors of these foods captivate their instincts.
It is recommended to vary the snacks that we give our pets since in their wild state they do not always find the same prizes.
MEADOW SNACK:
It is a 100% natural product. It helps to strengthen the immune system and the digestive functions of our pet. Helps to achieve a soft, shiny coat and strong bones.
Administer a maximum of 5-10 grams daily.
Carob is a 100% natural and healthy product thanks to its antioxidant content.
It also has a high content of fiber and tannins that benefit the intestinal flora and act as a natural antidiarrheal. It is recommended for states of deficiency or independence.
Administer a maximum of 8 grams daily.
The apple is a 100% natural and very healthy product with no added sugars thanks to its vitamin content that contributes to strengthening the immune system and to a soft and shiny coat. It also contributes to a natural wear of the teeth.
Administer a maximum of 4-6 grams daily.
Carrot without added sugars, 100% natural and very healthy thanks to the contribution of nutrients and antioxidants. Its high vitamin content strengthens the immune system and stimulates the body's regeneration processes.
Administer a maximum of 5-7 grams daily.
It is a 100% natural and healthy product thanks to its high fiber content, which benefits the intestinal flora. It also has a high content of minerals and vitamins that strengthen the immune system.
Administer a maximum of 4-5 grams daily.
Helps strengthen the immune system. It stimulates appetite and fights digestive and kidney problems thanks to its antioxidant properties. In addition, it contributes to a natural wear of the teeth.
Administer a maximum of 7-10 grams daily.
DANDELION SNACKS:
It helps to strengthen the immune system and digestive functions of our pet. Helps to achieve a soft, shiny coat and strong bones.
Administer a maximum of 5-10 grams daily.
SNACK PREVENTION:
The best option to prevent intestinal problems in early ages, deficiency periods or lack of appetite. It benefits the intestinal flora and acts as a natural antidiarrheal and strengthens the immune system.
Administer a maximum of 14 grams daily.
5.- PRICE:
The prices of dwarf rabbits can vary significantly and it is always essential to acquire them in specialized places, where both their upbringing and the care of their parents are respected.
It costs about 50-60 euros in the case of purebred rabbits purchased in specialized animal stores.
Some breeds of rabbit (minilop, lion head, etc.) are more expensive than others.
Normally dwarf rabbits are more expensive than medium ones.
6.- CARE:
Depending on the characteristics of the animal (type of hair, size if it is very old, if it has bone problems...). The base of the cage will be made of one material or another.
Dry straw is not recommended as it rots and does not absorb urine. Cat litter should also not be used.
Coconut fiber,wood pellets , paper pellets, biodegradable pellets are recommended... The ideal is to try the options available on the market until you find the most suitable for the furry.
Be careful where you leave your cage, avoid direct sunlight and drafts. Dwarf rabbits are capable of learning to relieve themselves in a specific place in the cage. To do this, allocate a small drawer inside the cage. Impregnate a piece of paper with his urine and put it where you want him to pee, he will learn.
Dwarf rabbits are more active than normal-sized rabbits, so they will need a cage of at least 4 square meters to be comfortable. Choose it simple, without much nook and cranny and with a bottom without bars or it could hurt its delicate legs.
When looking for a space at home for his cage, it is essential to select the space very well, since noise is detrimental to his well-being.
Dwarf rabbits should get out of their cage for a little while each day, no matter how spacious it is. Otherwise, they could become stressed or even self-injure on the bars of the cage.
Whenever the pet leaves its cage, it must be watched by someone and without the presence of other animals such as dogs or cats.
One of the most important aspects of caring for this small pet is to bear in mind that it is fragile, small and must be handled very delicately. His bones are fragile, so it is essential to hold him gently and safely, in the same way as the caresses that are made to him.
He needs to have his hair brushed frequently, especially when he sheds, but it will not be necessary to bathe him since he takes care of his own cleaning. In situations where a lot has been stained, you can wipe the hair with a damp cloth to keep it clean.
If you want to buy toys or accessories for their own entertainment, it is an essential requirement that you buy only those that are thought out and designed for them. Dwarf rabbits tend to bite everything and you have to pay attention to the materials with which they are made, their consistency and resistance.
Buy calcium stones are used for your dental cleaning.
7.- HEALTH:
Dwarf rabbits are very clean animals because if you notice that the animal is dirty or its hair has bald spots, dandruff or is not thick or shiny, it is possible that it is sick, take it to a veterinarian.
They have a life expectancy of between 8 and 10 years, if they live in good conditions.
They may suffer some other complication such as intestinal, respiratory or nervous problems, which would require a veterinary review along with their corresponding treatment.
Dental Malocclusion is one of the most common diseases in rabbits, it is dental overgrowth. This disease affects the incisors, molars and premolars. The teeth usually grow 5 millimeters a month, and for this reason it is important to offer food to your rabbit to gnaw on.
Rabbits' teeth are constantly growing throughout their lives and need continuous daily wear.
The wear is produced by the friction of the upper feelers with the lower ones, which is why it is so important to offer hay daily and unlimitedly.
HOW TO DETECT DENTAL OVERGROWTH?
The first symptom that we will detect is that the rabbit stops eating hay and can begin to lose weight gradually.
When our pet has this disease it will have difficulty eating, even picking up food and it will cause discomfort and pain when chewing.
WHAT ARE THE CAUSES OF OVERGROWTH?
One of the main causes is incorrect feeding. Diets rich in fiber favor wear during chewing due to their abrasive effect on the teeth. The most important food is hay, since it is rich in fiber and its regular consumption favors the natural wear of the teeth.
Another cause would be genetic pathologies such as prognathism in the mandible, which consists in the fact that the mandible and maxilla are not the same and when closing the mouth the wear of the teeth does not occur due to friction between them.
Every year your pet should undergo a veterinary review or annual check-up to check the good state of his health.
HOW TO CURE DENTAL MALOCCLUSION?
If the cause is genetic, your pet will have no choice but to undergo surgery by a veterinarian to equalize the length of the mandible and maxilla.
If the cause is a nutritional deficiency, the solution is obvious: you must change the rabbit's diet and make sure that it always has plenty of hay available.
