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Oryctolagus cuniculus
Bred from the English Lop and Mini Rex, the first American breed to combine lop ears with rex fur. A medium rabbit of 2.3-3.2 kg that has not yet gained full ARBA recognition.
The Velveteen Lop was created in the late 1980s to early 1990s by American breeder Virginia Menden by crossing the English Lop with the Mini Rex, and is named after the children's story The Velveteen Rabbit. It is considered the first American breed to combine lop ears with rex fur (a short, dense, velvet-like coat). A wide range of colours is accepted, including agouti, self, shaded, ticked, wide-band, pointed white and broken. The breed holds a Certificate of Development from the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA), meaning it can only be shown against other Velveteen Lops and has not yet achieved full recognition. The temperament is described as friendly and gentle. Very few breeders work with the breed in Japan.
Source: Wikipedia (CC BY-SA 4.0)
The Velveteen Lop Rabbit lives 8-12 years.
The Velveteen Lop Rabbit grows to 2.3-3.2kg.
Mature weight is 2.3-3.2 kg, the ears measure at least 36 cm tip to tip, and the body is semi-arched with a full chest and wedge-shaped head.
The ideal temperature for the Velveteen Lop Rabbit is 10〜20℃.
Origin
United States
Lifespan
8-12 years
Sources: Wikipedia (Velveteen Lop) / ARBA Recognized Breeds / RSPCA Rabbit health / RSPCA Rabbits
Edited & verified by: BreederDirect editorial team
The taxonomic, regulatory, and husbandry data on this page are compiled and verified against the authoritative primary sources below.
Accepted name: Oryctolagus cuniculus (Linnaeus, 1758)
Authority databases: GBIF
Nomenclature follows global taxonomic authority databases.
Domestic law: Subject to the animal import notification system under the Infectious Disease Control Law (Lagomorpha). No notification is required for domestically distributed specimens.
Sources: CITES Appendices (species not listed) / MHLW Animal Import Notification System
Regulations may change. Always verify the latest information with the relevant authorities.
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Size
2.3-3.2kg
Temperature
10〜20℃
Humidity
40〜60%
Timothy hay, pellets, small amounts of vegetables
Provide ample space for a medium breed and choose flooring and furnishings that will not catch or trap the long lop ears. Recommended temperature is 10-20C.
The short rex coat is easy to maintain, but brush gently during moults. Check inside the lop ears regularly for dirt and ear mites.
Described as friendly and gentle, well suited to family homes.
Rex-coated rabbits have thin foot fur and are prone to sore hocks on hard floors, so use soft bedding. Rabbits are social and neutered pairs are recommended.
Intermediate. This is an intermediate-level species. Some prior experience and knowledge of environmental management are recommended.
The ideal temperature for Velveteen Lop Rabbit is 10〜20℃. Avoid sudden temperature changes and maintain a stable environment.
The average lifespan of Velveteen Lop Rabbit is 8-12 years. With proper care and nutrition, they can live a long and healthy life.
Velveteen Lop Rabbit typically reaches 2.3-3.2kg as an adult. Size may vary depending on care conditions and individual genetics.
Velveteen Lop Rabbit feeds on: Timothy hay, pellets, small amounts of vegetables. Aim for a balanced diet with appropriate feeding frequency.
The price of Velveteen Lop Rabbit varies significantly depending on variety, age, sex, and the individual animal's condition. Check our market price page for the latest pricing information.
Last updated: September 16, 2026