Angora Rabbit Basics

Angora Rabbits are famous for their abundance of fur and their cute, cuddly appearance. Some of them can be so furry it is hard to tell at a quick glance that they are rabbits at all. The wool harvested from their abundant coat is one of the most desirable in the world. But how difficult is it for the first timer to successfully raise a happy, healthy angora?

Caring for that Coat

As you might imagine, grooming is a bigger chore for the angora owner than for those who choose a different breed. Most experienced angora owners use a system of “blowing” the fur, and advise the purchase of a pet grooming blower, as a conventional hair dryer can become dangerously hot and burn delicate bunny skin. It is best to try to do this at least once a week to remove excess hair and prevent matting and tangling. Unless it is a show animal, the Angora can be shorn in the summer, much like a sheep, to help it stay cool and happy.

Hidden Hair Danger

Because of that thick wooly coat, Angoras are prone to a condition known as “wool block” which can prove fatal if untreated. The Angora tends to eat or chew its’ fur, which sits in the stomach undigested. The affected rabbit then feels too full to eat, and may starve itself to death. Feeding them a high fiber diet on a regular basis can help prevent the problem from occurring, and for those already afflicted pineapple juice and a human stool softener such as Colace have been used successfully by breeders to cure their animals. For inexperienced owners though a visit to the local vet is always recommended.

Living with a Furball!

Angoras are usually very placid and good tempered. They make good house rabbits as long as the owners do not mind the abundance of hair all over the place at shedding time, which is a twice a year occasion.