Perhaps one of the things that attract rabbit enthusiasts to the lionhead rabbit is its teddy bear-like appearance. However, a lionheads cuteness can also be its curse with some potential owners put off by the thought of a lot of extra care and maintenance including haircuts. Lionheads are a fluffy breed, so what is the truth? Let’s take a look
Giving a lionhead or any other rabbit a haircut is not recommended. Lionhead rabbits molt several times a year to get rid of excess fur, but as one of the longer-haired rabbit breeds, lionheads will also need regular brushing to prevent tangles and matting.
Lionheads are one of the timidest of the small rabbit breeds, and contrary to what their name may lead you to believe, they are (at least in my experience) gentle and shy.
Although every rabbit is an individual, I can also attest that these rabbit breeds will benefit from a good grooming session, it will also be a good way to strengthen your bond.
Why Haircuts are Just Not Necessary
Lionhead rabbits have thick, wool-like fur which may look beautiful but when it is not properly cared for, it can cause problems. However, giving the pet a haircut is not necessary and definitely not recommended.
All Rabbits molt but it’s obviously more noticeable in longer-haired breeds such as lionheads and usually coincides with the changing of the seasons, particularly if the rabbit is kept outdoors.
A molt may even be triggered simply by bringing a rabbit into a warmer environment than it is used to.
A rabbit’s fur helps protect its delicate tissue-like skin as well as keep it warm when temperatures drop, particularly if they are kept outside of the house as many are.
Benefits of Brushing a Lionhead Rabbit
While haircuts are a big no-no, keeping the fur under control with longer-haired breeds like lionheads is a must. Brushing does two things, it helps remove dead fur which the rabbit is in the process of molting, and also prevents the matting of the fur.
Matting may not seem like a big deal, however, as the mats develop they can pull at the skin creating sores that leave a rabbit vulnerable to flystrike.
Likewise, brushing to remove dead fur may also seem trivial until you consider the possibility that if this doesn’t take place, a rabbit may ingest its own fur during grooming and cleaning routines, potentially, this can lead to internal issues, in particular, Gastrointestinal Stasis which can be deadly.
Finally, regular brushing sessions will help to spread the natural oils across the rabbit’s entire coat, keeping it in tip-top condition.
Brushing a Lionhead Rabbit
If you feel a little overwhelmed at the thought of brushing (grooming), you wouldn’t be alone. A lot of new rabbit owners are fearful of hurting or frightening their pets but when it is done correctly, grooming shouldn’t cause distress for the bunny.
One of the best ways to ensure that your pet has an enjoyable grooming experience is to head to your vet soon after adopting or buying the rabbit, particularly if you are finding handling difficult.
Your vet will be able to show the right way to handle the rabbit and the correct method for more intricate jobs such as clipping the nails.
You should begin a grooming session by brushing your lionhead rabbits fur. Placing the rabbit in your lap is the easiest way to do this and will ensure that your rabbit is calm throughout the process.
When doing this, you should carefully and gently remove any tangles from the fur and avoid letting the comb touch the rabbit’s skin as this is delicate and may be sensitive particularly if the rabbit is midway through a molt.
Although haircuts are largely unnecessary, there may be times, particularly if you have neglected a regular grooming regime when the rabbit does develop a mat in the fur.
This is often the result of hay or other debris getting into the fur and becoming tangled. Commonly this can occur at the lower end of the rabbit, around its skirt area.
When this happens, cutting out the mat may be the only course of action. You can buy special grooming scissors but these are not a necessity. You can just as easily use regular scissors provided they are sharp enough.
Note that you should never attempt this procedure if you are not confident that you can do it without injuring the rabbit. If at any point the rabbit appears to be uncomfortable or stressed, stop the procedure and try again another day.
Can You Shave a Lionhead Rabbit?
The sound of a set of clippers could be upsetting for rabbits. However, in extreme cases of neglect, some rabbits may require shaving with clippers.
There are some breeds of rabbit such as the Angora whose fur can get so long that they require shaving as often as every three months.
Fortunately, although lionheads have a significant amount of fur around their faces and flanks, the rest of the fur is not particularly dense.
A regular brushing regime along with their own molting means this shaving with clippers is unlikely to ever become necessary.
Can You Bathe a Lionhead Rabbit?
Rabbits are naturally adept at cleaning themselves and as such, should be allowed to do this. However, sometimes hardened poop can get stuck in their fur. If this cannot be cut out, bathing the rabbit in an inch of warm water can help soften and remove this prior to brushing.
Bathing should only ever be a last resort and the rabbit should never be submerged, furthermore, the rabbit should never be allowed to remain wet.
Although well-equipped to survive in wintry conditions such as snow and cold, if they become wet, their thick fur coat will do little to stop them from developing hypothermia or pneumonia.
The problem is that rabbit fur does not dry quickly. Unlike a dog, for example, who can have a bath, shake himself off, and be dry in time for dinner, a rabbit will take far longer.
Every minute that the rabbit is wet, there is an increased risk of his body temperature falling below what it should be.
Again, to reiterate, bathing should only ever be a last resort. Most rabbits are not comfortable when they are wet and water will be very stressful.
Wrap Up
Despite their long impressive manes, lionheads are by no means a difficult rabbit to maintain. A healthy diet and a brushing session once or twice a week will be enough to keep lionheads looking at their very best, In short, giving them a haircut will be unnecessary.
Further Reading
How to Groom a Lionhead Rabbit cuteness.com
Best Grooming Kit and Brush lionheadrabbitcare.com
Rabbit Grooming Basics therabbithaven.org
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should you groom a Lionhead rabbit?
Lionhead rabbits should be groomed at least once a week to maintain their long, dense coat and prevent matting and fur issues.
How do you groom a Lionhead rabbit?
Grooming a Lionhead rabbit involves regular brushing to remove loose fur, tangles, and prevent matting. Pay attention to their mane, underside, and tail.
Do long-haired rabbits need haircuts?
Most long-haired rabbits, including Lionheads, do not require haircuts. Regular grooming and brushing are usually sufficient to keep their coat in good condition.
Are Lionhead rabbits high maintenance?
Lionhead rabbits are considered high maintenance due to their long, dense coat. Regular grooming, including brushing and checking for matting, is necessary.
Do Lionhead bunnies like to cuddle?
Lionhead rabbits have individual personalities, but many enjoy cuddling and human companionship. Building trust and providing gentle handling can encourage cuddling behavior.
