American
The American is a United States breed developed in California and standardised in 1917, originally as the German Blue Vienna and renamed during the First World War.
For a time it was among the most popular commercial rabbits in the country.
It is a large rabbit of semi-arch or mandolin type, meaning the back rises in a smooth curve from the shoulders to the hindquarters, and it comes in blue and white. It is now genuinely rare — it has appeared repeatedly on conservation priority lists — and is kept mainly by heritage breeders. Temperament is typically docile, and the does have a reputation as excellent mothers.
- Origin
- California, United States, standardised 1917
- Size
- 4–5.5 kg
- Lifespan
- 8–12 years
- Coat
- Short and dense, blue or white
- Temperament
- Docile and easy-going
- Recognition
- Rare; a heritage conservation breed
Related: American chinchilla · American fuzzy lop · American sable
2 american photos, newest first
Living with a american
Large rabbits need proportionally more space, and most commercially sold hutches are far below any welfare guideline. Room to take several consecutive hops and to stand fully upright on the hind legs is the minimum.
Keep them in neutered pairs, feed hay as the bulk of the diet, and vaccinate annually against myxomatosis and both RHD strains.
Heavier breeds are more prone to sore hocks, so avoid wire flooring and provide deep soft bedding. Check the hind feet regularly. Weight also needs watching: an overweight rabbit cannot reach to groom itself or eat its caecotrophs.
General guidance, not veterinary advice. Individual rabbits vary, and anything about a specific animal is a question for a vet who has seen it.
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