Fauve De Bourgogne Rabbit

Lisa Selvaggio
by Lisa Selvaggio
fast facts

About Fauve De Bourgogne Rabbit

Size
Medium
Weight
7-8 lb
Lifespan
12 years
Body Shape
Commercial
Best Suited For
Rabbit owners of all experience levels
Temperament
Docile, gentle, social, active
Comparable Breeds
Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit Breed History/Origin


The Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit is one of the oldest breeds from France. It originated within the Burgundy region of the country, and it was developed through the selective breeding of rabbits that were fawn colored. In 1928, the breed was officially recognized.


Today, this breed is considered rare, as these rabbits are not commonly found outside of their home country. In France, though, they are still popular, even though these rabbits were originally bred for their fur and meat. In addition to making great family pets, these rabbits are also beloved show animals.


The Fauve de Bourgogne is a rabbit breed from France.


Overall Description

The body of the Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit can be described as muscular, round, and thickset. Also, the head will be large and broad, and the neck will be strong and short. You will also notice that the ears will be strong and well furred, will be held upright, and will feature rounded tips.


Coat


The coat of a Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit should be medium in length. There will also be a dense undercoat.


Colors


One of the most distinguishing features of the Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit is its beautiful fur, which is a lovely orange-red color. This russet red is the only color that this breed features.


Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbits have a lovely orange-red coat.


Care Requirements


The Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit will do best when housed indoors, protected from predators and extreme temperatures. However, you should allow your rabbit out of his indoor enclosure in order to roam about freely and exercise every day. Rabbit-proofing your house will ensure your pet doesn’t end up chewing any of your valuable belongings or your cables and wires.


Whether or not you house your rabbit outside, you should give your pet the opportunity to explore the great outdoors. Using a lawn enclosure, exercise pen, or extension hutch will provide a safe and secure space where your rabbit can get some fresh air and sunshine.


Any rabbit, regardless of whether he is being housed indoors or outside, should have an enclosure that is safe, quiet, and clean. It should also be large enough that your rabbit can stand up, turn around, and hop around comfortably. An outdoor enclosure, in particular, should also be weatherproof and waterproof, and it should be kept out of direct wind and direct sunlight.


To give your Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit the best nutrition, focus on providing your pet with a variety of vegetables, but you can also give him some fruit as a treat. For example, you can feed your rabbit some dark, leafy greens that include spring greens, romaine lettuce, spinach, and kale, and then provide him with other types of veggies, such as cauliflower, summer squash, bell pepper, and broccoli. Starchy vegetables and fruits should be given only occasionally, as you do not want your pet to consume too much of those foods. Rabbits also require an array of high quality hays and grasses, as well as rabbit pellets. And, of course, you should always make certain that your pet has access to clean, fresh drinking water.


Health

Rabbits like the Fauve de Bourgogne can be susceptible to infections and colds, so keeping your pet in a stress-free environment that is free of sudden temperature changes and drafts will be important. A pet rabbit can also become vulnerable to ear mites and conjunctivitis, as well as intestinal problems like coccidiosis, hairball obstructions, and bloat. Interacting with your pet every day will give you the chance to check his body, ears, eyes, and mouth for any signs of illness.


Also be sure to give your rabbit plenty of gnaw toys and fibrous veggies that will help ensure his teeth never become overgrown. And making it a point to keep your rabbit at the ideal weight will also prevent problems like flystrike, which is more common in overweight rabbits who are unable to properly groom themselves.


You can even talk to your vet about having your pet treated for ticks, worms, and fleas, especially if he spends time in the great outdoors. And you can also have your rabbit vaccinated, spayed, or neutered.


The Fauve de Bourgogne is known for being gentle and docile.


Temperament/Behavior


The Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit is known for being gentle and docile in temperament, making it a great choice for those who are seeking a family pet. If you are hoping to have a playful rabbit, however, this breed might disappoint.


Like other rabbit breeds, you can train your Fauve de Bourgogne Rabbit to use a litter tray. And knowing how to pick up and handle a rabbit without harming him will also ensure your pet will be comfortable with being held.


Photo credit: cynoclub/Bigstock

Lisa Selvaggio
Lisa Selvaggio

Lisa Selvaggio is a freelance writer and editor, and our resident cats-pert, with certifications in pet nutrition and pet first aid. She enjoys producing content that helps people understand animals better so they can give their pets a safe and happy home.

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