Everything You Need To Know About Flemish Giant Rabbit
One of the most oversized rabbits, the Flemish Giant rabbit, also known as one of the oldest recognized breeds, leaves an impression on the rabbit world. This breed developed in Belgium in the 16th century. In the mid-19th century, locals began breeding these rabbits, and some were exported to England.
Since the Flemish Giant is one of the oldest breeds in history, they arrived in America shortly after that, and many of the pet rabbits we have today descended from the Flemish Giant. Some experts believe they descended from ancient giant rabbit breeds such as the European Patagonian and the Stone Rabbit.
The Flemish Giant rabbits were bred for both fur and meat in the beginning. They are, however, primarily kept as pets nowadays. These rabbits are for their gentle nature as it is docile, intelligent, and friendly if kept in the proper environment. The American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) recognizes seven varieties of Flemish Giants, which are distinguished by their semi-arch body type.
Do Flemish Giant Rabbits make good pets?
Despite their massive size, Flemish Giants have unique personalities as they are naturally docile, intelligent, and make excellent companions and adorable family pets. Therefore, we can see that they will frequently seek human interaction. Flemish Giants are known to greet their owners in the following ways:
- They will stand on their hind legs as if to say, “Look at me!”
- They nudge you with their nose as if to get your attention.
- They might even bring their toys to you in this sort of way like a dog does.
- They may even come over to you and sit beside you as if to request a stroke.
From here, it shows that they are also malleable and easily trained. With a litter box, you can litter teach the rabbits. Therefore, Flemish Giants are loyal and tend to favor one human over another.
What does Flemish Giant Rabbit eat?
The Flemish Giant is the same as all the rabbits as they eat primarily fresh hay and grass. Many experts recommend that the Rabbit should consume its body weight in the grass every day. Alternatively, hay should account for at least 70% of the Rabbit’s diet, and 18% of protein pellets should not exceed one-third of the Rabbit’s daily diet. The Rabbit’s diets have to keep its treats to 10% or less.
Also, these Flemish Giant should have constant access to fresh water. All rabbits are heat sensitive, but the Flemish Giant’s size makes them even more so. Thus, having plenty of water on hand can be beneficial. Another thing is Flemish Giants have a huge appetite to match their stature.
How big is a Flemish Giant Rabbit?
Flemish Giant rabbits have a long, muscular body with broad hindquarters. In addition, these rabbits are classified as a “semi-arch” breed because their spine has a noticeable, but not extreme, arch. According to the PDSA, the average Flemish Giant weighs around 7kg (15 lbs.) which weight is the same as three Chihuahua dogs. However, the Flemish Giant males are typically heavier than the females. Plus, some of these rabbits can even weigh around 10 kg (22 lbs.). Meanwhile, the longest recorded Flemish Giant rabbit was four feet three inches long.
Is Flemish Giant Rabbit aggressive?
Flemish Giant Rabbits have a diverse set of personality traits. Others are aggressive and territorial, while some are incredibly affectionate. In general, females will be friendlier than males. However, this is not a universal rule because it varies depending on the type of Rabbit.
One thing for sure is they do not lap rabbits. There are a few rare exceptions, but they will not jump up on your lap like a dog in general. They dislike being picked up for a good reason, as their skeletal system is compassionate. Their bones are similar to those of birds, being extremely light and hollow.
In general, Flemish Giant rabbits are usually calmer and more laid back than smaller rabbit breeds. They enjoy lounging and have a generally laid-back demeanor. They are also the most adorable and intelligent rabbit breed.
What’s the average lifespan of a Flemish Giant Rabbit?
A Flemish Giant Rabbit can live for five years or more until it reaches puberty with regular veterinarian visits, a healthy diet, and quality care. They, like any other pet, require a special diet for optimal health. The right environment and proper maintenance are equally important. Diet and space to run and play are critical for these massive rabbits. Despite this fact, it depends on the gender of these rabbits, for a female Flemish Giant or doe, they can mature in one year, while for a male Flemish Giant or buck, it takes one and a half years.
How fast does Flemish Giant Rabbit grow?
Flemish Giants can typically weigh 14 pounds at nine months or one year of age. They usually reach their peak weight around the age of 1.5 years. Thus, the Flemish Giants Rabbits can get their maximum weight when they are 1.5 years old. Breeders and owners should wait until their Rabbit is nearly a year old before breeding.
How do you bond with a Flemish Giant Rabbit?
To develop a strong bond with the Flemish Giant rabbits, we should share the home with a couple or trio, which does not preclude them from interacting with you. It is because these rabbits are highly social animals. Pet bunnies enjoy interacting with one another as well as with their owner. However, some bunnies may not get along. Therefore, we should be cautious when introducing a new bunny to a home with existing bunnies. Another thing is spayed, which can prevent unwanted pregnancies when males and females are mixed. In addition, spaying/neutering could reduce the risk of future reproductive cancers.
Final thought
Flemish Giant Rabbits are exciting and entertaining pets. Because of their docile personality, owning or breeding a Flemish Giant may appear enjoyable and straightforward. It does, however, necessitate a significant amount of effort and patience. The truth about owning one of these gentle giants, on the other hand, is likely to differ significantly from your current expectations. As a result, it is essential to speak with reputable Flemish Giant breeders to get an idea of the cost, care, and maintenance of this furry bunny.
https://www.rabbitproducersassociation.com/everything-you-need-to-know-about-flemish-giant-rabbit/https://www.rabbitproducersassociation.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/flemish-giant-rabbit-3-1024x576.jpghttps://www.rabbitproducersassociation.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/flemish-giant-rabbit-3-150x150.jpgUncategorizedOne of the most oversized rabbits, the Flemish Giant rabbit, also known as one of the oldest recognized breeds, leaves an impression on the rabbit world. This breed developed in Belgium in the 16th century. In the mid-19th century, locals began breeding these rabbits, and some were exported to...FatimahFatimah ftmhuda@gmail.comAuthorNetherland Dwarf Rabbit
Leave a Reply