History and Origin
The Britannia Petite rabbit has its roots in England, where it originated in the 19th century. Initially known as the Polish rabbit, this breed was the result of selective breeding involving the Netherland Dwarf, Polish, and Himalayan breeds. This deliberate breeding strategy aimed to develop a distinct rabbit that boasted a refined structure and size.
Physical Characteristics
Renowned for being one of the smallest rabbit breeds, the Britannia Petite typically weighs between 2 and 2.5 pounds when fully matured. Its compact, fully arched body structure is complemented by a wedge-shaped head, small pointed ears, and large expressive eyes. The coat of a Britannia Petite is short and fine, requiring minimal maintenance. This fur comes in a variety of colors, including REW (ruby-eyed white), BEW (blue-eyed white), broken, chestnut agouti, black, sable, and black otter.
Temperament and Behavior
Britannia Petites are known for their high-strung nature and energetic demeanor, which means they are best suited for experienced rabbit owners. Their lively personality can sometimes be aggressive, so handling requires a gentle and patient approach. Although they are sociable animals, their delicate nature and general dislike for cuddling make them less ideal for young children.
Diet and Nutrition
A high-fiber diet is crucial for Britannia Petites. The bulk of their diet should consist of hay, supplemented with fresh vegetables and a small amount of pellets. These components ensure they receive all the necessary nutrients for optimal health. Additionally, they need ample water daily to stay hydrated and maintain proper body temperature regulation.
Habitat and Exercise
Providing the right living conditions is important for this breed. An ideal cage size is approximately 24” wide x 24” high x 36” long, with a non-slippery floor to prevent bone fractures. Regular exercise and mental stimulation are also essential to prevent boredom. Owners can offer toys and supervised playtime outside the enclosure to meet these needs.
Grooming and Health
The short fur of the Britannia Petite necessitates only occasional grooming, primarily during warmer months. Bathing should be avoided as it can cause skin irritation. They are prone to health issues like malocclusion due to the disparity between their short heads and long jaws, so regular dental care is key to their health.
Show and Training
For those interested in showcasing their Britannia Petite, intensive handling and table training are prerequisites for successful show preparation. This process requires a patient and committed approach from the owner. Young Britannia Petites can be trained to assume the show pose with consistent and gentle handling.