How difficult is it to keep New Zealand Rabbit?

Beginner. This is a beginner-friendly species. No special equipment or experience is required, and it can be kept successfully with basic care setup.

What is the ideal temperature for New Zealand Rabbit?

The ideal temperature for New Zealand Rabbit is 18〜26℃. Recommended humidity is 40〜60%. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.

What is the lifespan of New Zealand Rabbit?

The average lifespan of New Zealand Rabbit is 5-8 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.

How large does New Zealand Rabbit get?

New Zealand Rabbit typically reaches 45-55cm / 4-5.5kg as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.

What should I feed New Zealand Rabbit?

New Zealand Rabbit feeds on: Timothy hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.

What is the typical price for New Zealand Rabbit?

The price of New Zealand Rabbit varies significantly depending on morph, size, and lineage. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.

Source: Wikimedia Commons

New Zealand Rabbit

Beginner

Oryctolagus cuniculus

Hardy large breed available in white, red, and black. Originally a utility breed but excellent as pets due to their calm disposition.

Difficulty

Beginner

Temperature

18〜26℃

Lifespan

5-8 years

Size

45-55cm / 4-5.5kg

Humidity

40〜60%

Diet

Timothy hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens

About

Despite its name, the New Zealand rabbit was developed in the United States in the early 1910s, likely from American White and Flemish Giant crosses; the name is thought to reference the imported ancestry of some foundation stock. Adults measure 45–55 cm and weigh 4–5.5 kg. The white variety (an albino with pink eyes) is by far the most common, though red and black varieties also exist. Their sturdy, well-muscled body and docile disposition made them the breed of choice for the commercial meat industry and biomedical research. Today, they are increasingly popular as family pets for their manageable temperament. Their large size requires a spacious enclosure with daily exercise. Obesity must be carefully prevented through measured pellet portions and unlimited high-fiber hay. Optimal temperature is 15–25 °C. Common health concerns include pododermatitis (sore hocks from their weight), dental malocclusion, GI stasis, and obesity. Lifespan is 5–8 years.

Basic Info

Origin

United States

Lifespan

5-8 years

Size

45-55cm / 4-5.5kg

Temperature

18〜26℃

Humidity

40〜60%

Diet

Timothy hay, rabbit pellets, leafy greens

Care Guide

Housing

Large rabbit cage. Sturdy build but watch for lack of exercise

Care Specifications

Pair

Sources: RWAF Rabbit companionship

Morphs (Varieties)

ARBA 公認 New Zealand のカラー variety(5色)。

Other

BlackBlueRedWhiteBroken

Sources: ARBA Recognized Breeds and Varieties

A curated selection of notable morphs. Inheritance modes are a breeding-planning guide; actual appearance varies with combos.

References & Sources

Edited & verified by: br-choku editorial team

The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.

Primary sources

Taxonomy & Authority

Accepted name: Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus, 1758)

Authority databases: GBIF

Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.

Regulations & Conservation Status

Not CITES-listed

Sources: CITES Appendices / 環境省特定外来生物一覧

Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.