Flemish Giant Rabbit

Flemish Giant Rabbit is the largest breed of rabbit recognized in this country. The bucks should not weigh less than 12 lb nor the does less than 12 lb. In shows however, animals under these weights but over six months of age are catered for by intermediate classes. Flemish of 14 lb. or more are of good size at the present time, although specimen sup to 21 lb. have been exhibited.

The breed, in its present form can be considered to be of entirely English origin, although there is evidence to suggest that it is descended from the Patagonian, with the introduction of some other blood, principally Silver Gray.

The steel color of the Flemish (the only oleoresins in this country) is a combination of the genes for dominant black and normal extension of black with the Agouti pattern. Although this is the basic genetic al constitution to give the dark steel co lour, there are also modifying factors which affect it. In other countries (principally America) many other colors such as sandy, white, etc., Americanized and the weights are usually higher.

Flemish giant rabbits are said to be the king of rabbits. They are commonly steel gray in color. They are long with a large head and their ears are long and erect. They are said to be an old breed from the Flemish region. They were bred in 16th century in the city of Ghent, Belgium.

• Appearance
  They are said to be the largest breed of rabbits. Their body is semi arch in shape. Their back arch starts from shoulders and leads to the base of tail giving a mandolin shape. Rabbit’s body is long and powerful and possesses a good muscular development. They have broad hindquarters. Bucks (male rabbits) have a broad, massive head in comparison to does (female rabbit). Female rabbits have a large, evenly carried dewlap (a fold of the skin under the chins). The fur of the Flemish giant is glossy and dense. When stroked from hindquarters to the head, the fur rolls back to its original position. Apart from gray color, they are found in different colors like black, blue, fawn steel gray and white. Minimum weight of female rabbit older than 8months is 10lbs and that of the male is 13lbs.

• Behavior and lifestyle
  Flemish giant rabbits are tolerant and quite in nature. They become fearful if they are handled incorrectly or irresponsibly. Hence they need to be under a mature owner who can take proper care. Due to its larger size, the Flemish rabbit needs a large space to play and roam around. So it is advisable to keep rabbit in a large room. They require more quantity of food as compared to other domestic rabbits. These rabbit have less hair on their body, hence they does not require regular grooming.

• Diet
  Like other domestic rabbits, most important component of diet for a Flemish giant is hay. Grass hays such as timothy are preferred over legume hays. Legume hays are higher in proteins, calories and calcium, which in excess can cause kidney stones and loose stool. A mix of black sunflower seed, steam rolled barley, beet pulp, shelled corn are good in winter. They can even consume chopped dark green leafy vegetables. Some quantity of fruits and carrots are also given to Flemish giant rabbit. A slice of banana, strawberry or apple can also be given as a treat.

• Cage and bedding
  As Flemish giant rabbit is large in size, they require a big cage or spacious bedding. A cage has to be wooden with waterproof roof and should be raised off the ground. These giant rabbits must have a spacious exercise area.
  Bedding material should be provided during winters. Rabbit’s home should be cleaned on regular basis. This can help to keep rabbit stay fit and healthy.

Flemish giant rabbits can be trained to learn their name. They can be even trained to go to toilet in one specific area. They are more active during day times and sleep in evening and at nights.

Slight use can be made of the pelt of the Flemish, although for early meat production the breed has its toes apart from exhibition purposes. Nevertheless, with a possible future demand for hating fur at increased prices, the breed may come into its own in this sphere, for the hair is of a very suitable nature for this purpose.