The Cashmere Lop is a particular type of rabbit. It’s known for its soft and fluffy fur. This rabbit breed was found by Miss Turner of Wales in 1980. She saw that some baby rabbits had thicker and longer fur than others. Are they looking for a unique and charming rabbit breed to add to your family? Learn about the adorable and fluffy Cashmere Lop Rabbit in our comprehensive guide!
The Cashmere Lop is a medium-sized rabbit breed with long, dense fur originating from Kashmir in Pakistan. They come in many colours and weigh around 4–5 lbs.
Cashmere Lops are soft and cuddly and can be kept indoors or outdoors in secure cabinets. They are considered a great family pet, with care requirements similar to other rabbits.
The British Rabbit Council recognized the Cashmere Lop as a separate breed from the Dwarf Lop in the 1980s. There is also a Miniature Cashmere Lop, recognized by the British Rabbit Council in 1994.
If you’re searching for an affectionate and soft pet, look at the cashmere rabbit. They are loved for their smooth, silky fur and sweet personalities. In this article, we’ll provide all you need to know about this beloved breed, from its origins to its grooming and care.
All Bullet Points
- Introduction
- Origins and Origin
- Appearance and Characteristics
- Colour and Coat
- Size and Shape
- Temperament and Behaviour
- Housing and Environment
- Diet and nutrition
- Maintenance and grooming
- Health and Wellness
- Training and Exercise
- Reproduction and Breeding
- Frequently asked questions
- Conclusion
Origins and Origin
This Cashmere Lop rabbit is a relatively new breed initially developed in the early 1980s by a breeder called Patricia S. Dyment. She wanted to breed an animal with a luxurious and long coat, similar to the Angora rabbit but with a more pleasant and friendly personality. Dyment crossbred with the English Lop and the French Angora. The outcome was The Cashmere Lop rabbit.
History and Origin
People started to like the Cashmere Lop about six years after it was found. By the mid-90s, this rabbit breed began to appear in shows. More people learned about it, and breeders began to improve the breed. The National Cashmere Lop Club accepted the breed in all colours.
This breed is still popular and can be seen in shows worldwide. The smaller version, the Cashmere Miniature, was seen about ten years later. The British Rabbit Council (BRC) recognizes the Cashmere Lop Standard and the Cashmere Mini, but the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) does not.
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Appearance and Characteristics
Physical Characteristics
The Cashmere Lop is a small to medium-sized rabbit with a long, silky, thick coat. It has a strong body that is wide and short. You can’t see much of its neck. Its backside is solid and round, and its chest is profound and broad. This rabbit’s front legs are straight, short, and thick. Its back legs are strong, fast, and parallel to its body.
The rabbit’s tail is also covered in fur and is strong. Its head is broad and robust, and its cheeks are full. Its ears are long, round at the ends, thick, and wide, and stay close to its head. You can’t see the inside of the rabbit’s ears from any angle. Its eyes are bright, and its skull has a noticeable crown.
About Cashmere Lop
| Size: | Small |
| Weight: | 4–5 pounds |
| Lifespan: | 8–12 years |
| Body Shape: | Compact |
| Similar Breeds: | English Lop, Miniature Lion Lop, Meissner Lop |
| Suitable for: | Families that have older children, single owners, first-time owners |
| Temperament: | Intelligent, cheerful, active, social |
| Comparable Breed: | Mini Lop |
| Best Suited For: | Rabbit owners of all experience levels, including families with older children |
Colour and Coat
The Cashmere Lop rabbit has a soft, woolly, silky coat. It is available in a variety of colours that, include blue, white and black, as well as chocolate, lilac and many more. The breed’s skin can grow up to 5 inches long and requires frequent grooming to prevent matting or knots.
Coat
The Cashmere Lop’s coat is silky, long, and thick. It should be about 1.5 to 2 inches long and lay nicely on the rabbit’s body. The rabbit’s fur should not be woolly. The topcoat is heavier and longer than the undercoat. These rabbits need more care than other breeds, especially young ones.
Until your rabbit is about five months old, its coat will likely get matted and knotted. So, you’ll need to groom it regularly using a wire comb that’s good for longhaired cats and dogs. When you groom your Cashmere Lop, you shouldn’t comb out all of the thickness from the undercoat. Please don’t use a comb to thin the coat; use it to untangle any knots gently.
Shape and size
The Cashmere Lop is a medium-sized breed that weighs 6 to 9 pounds when fully mature. They have small, rounded bodies with sturdy, short legs and long ears up to 16 inches long.
Temperament and Behaviour
Cashmere Lop rabbits are friendly, sweet, gentle, and affectionate pets. They love human companionship and enjoy cuddling and playing. They are also well-known for their peaceful and calm nature, making them an excellent choice for families with children. The Cashmere Lops also make great social pets and are best kept in groups or pairs to avoid boredom and loneliness.
Environment and Housing
Cashmere Lop rabbits can be kept in pen or indoors, depending on the type of environment you prefer and your conditions. If you decide to keep them inside, offer them an organized, spacious pen or cage-free of drafts, providing plenty of space to play and exercise. If they are kept outside, make sure you provide them with an enclosed, secure enclosure or hutch secured from the harsh weather.
Diet and Nutrition
A healthy diet is essential for the Cashmere Lop rabbit’s well-being and health. Feeding them a balanced diet high in vitamins, fibre, and minerals is necessary. Hay should comprise most of their diet, with high-quality fresh fruits, vegetables and pellets. Do not feed them sweet or starchy food items because they could cause digestive issues.
Grooming and Maintenance
Cashmere Lop rabbits require regular grooming to ensure their coats are well-maintained and tangles-free. Clean them regularly, at least once weekly, using a slicker brush or comb to remove any mats or loose fur. You might also have to cut their coats occasionally to keep them from becoming too long and tangled.
Health and Wellness
As with all pets, Cashmere Lop rabbits can be susceptible to health issues. Be on the lookout to detect signs of disease like fatigue, loss of appetite, or diarrhoea. Regular visits to the vet will help you prevent and treat any health issues that might be present.
Training and Exercise
Training and exercise are essential for the health and well-being of your Cashmere Lop rabbit. These animals are naturally active and need plenty of opportunities to exercise and play to prevent boredom and obesity.
One way to provide your rabbit with exercise is by providing them with a safe, enclosed space to run and play, such as a rabbit-proofed room or an outdoor playpen. You can also provide them with toys and other enrichment activities like tunnels, chew toys, and puzzles.
In addition to exercise, training can be a great way to bond with your Cashmere Lop and teach them new skills. Positive reinforcement training, using rewards such as treats and praise, can effectively teach your rabbit basic commands and tricks.
Always supervise your rabbit during exercise and training to ensure their safety and well-being. And, as with any pet, make sure to consult with your veterinarian before starting any new exercise or training routine.
Breeding and Reproduction:
Breeding and reproduction can be exciting and rewarding experiences for rabbit owners. However, it is essential to understand the responsibilities of breeding and ensure the health and well-being of both the parent rabbits and their offspring.
Here are some frequently asked questions about breeding and reproduction in Cashmere Lop rabbits:
What is a Cashmere Lop rabbit?
A Cashmere Lop is a unique breed of rabbit known for its soft, fluffy fur. It was discovered in 1980 within a nest of Dwarf Lop rabbits.
Who discovered the Cashmere Lop rabbit?
The Cashmere Lop rabbit was discovered by Miss Turner of Wales. She noticed some baby rabbits had fur that was thicker and longer than the others.
When did the Cashmere Lop rabbit become popular?
The Cashmere Lop rabbit started gaining popularity about six years after its discovery. By the mid-90s, it began appearing in shows and gained a larger audience.
Is the Cashmere Lop rabbit recognized by rabbit associations?
Yes, the Cashmere Lop Standard and the Cashmere Mini are recognized by the British Rabbit Council (BRC). However, they are not recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA).
What does a Cashmere Lop rabbit look like?
The Cashmere Lop is a compact, medium-sized rabbit with a long, silky, and dense coat. It has a strong body that is wide and short, with little neck visible.
How should I groom my Cashmere Lop rabbit?
Regular grooming sessions will be necessary using a wire comb suitable for longhaired cats and dogs. When grooming your Cashmere Lop, you shouldn’t comb out all of the density from the undercoat.
What is the temperament of a Cashmere Lop rabbit?
Cashmere Lops are generally known to be friendly, gentle, and good-natured. They can make great pets for families and individuals of all ages.
What should I feed my Cashmere Lop rabbit?
A balanced diet for a Cashmere Lop rabbit should include high-quality rabbit pellets, fresh hay, water, and fresh vegetables. Treats can be given sparingly and should not make up a large portion of their diet.
How long does a Cashmere Lop rabbit live?
With proper care, a Cashmere Lop rabbit can live for about 5 to 8 years. Some may even live longer with exceptional care.
Can Cashmere Lop rabbits live with other pets?
Yes, Cashmere Lop rabbits can live with other pets. However, it’s important to properly introduce them to ensure they get along. Always supervise interactions between your rabbit and other pets to ensure safety.
What is the breeding age for Cashmere Lop rabbits?
Cashmere Lop rabbits can start breeding at around six months of age, but waiting until they are at least eight months old is recommended to allow their bodies to mature fully.
How often can Cashmere Lop rabbits breed?
Cashmere Lop rabbits can reproduce multiple times a year, but limiting breeding to no more than three times a year is recommended to avoid potential health issues.
How long is the gestation period for Cashmere Lop rabbits?
The gestation period for Cashmere Lop rabbits is around 28-31 days.
How many babies can Cashmere Lop rabbits have in one litter?
Cashmere Lop rabbits typically have 4-6 babies, although larger litters are possible.
When should baby rabbits be weaned from their mother?
Baby rabbits should be weaned from their mother at around 8-10 weeks of age.
Conclusion:
Breeding and reproduction can be a wonderful experience for Cashmere Lop rabbit owners, but it is essential to understand the responsibilities that come with it. Proper care and attention should be given to the parent rabbits and their offspring to ensure their health and well-being. Consult with a veterinarian and do thorough research before starting a breeding program.
