Grooming Long-haired Rabbits
All rabbits need regular brushing to help prevent blockages in their digestive system. Long-haired rabbits, though, require a more extensive regimen. This process is outlined in the steps below.
What you’ll need:
- a double-sided comb (one side fine, the other farther apart)
- a soft slicker brush
- a trash can (for loose hair)
- a scissors or clipper
- Optional: an unscented dryer sheet (for static)
To Start:
Place your rabbit either on your lap or on a table in front of you. Put something under their feet, like a carpet square or a small bed, to make them feel more secure. Some people find it helpful to have a specific place for grooming, and even specific clothing to wear. This helps your bunny know that you need them to be well-behaved; that it isn’t play time.
Give your rabbit a thorough once over using your hands. This gives you an idea of where any mats are, plus it helps relax them. It also helps you to identify where any sores or bumps are located, so you can be sure to avoid them.
Grooming the Back and Sides:
Starting at the base of the tail, begin brushing using the slicker. Be sure to thoroughly go through the fur, but be gentle. Slicker brushes can cause a skin injury called "slicker burn" if one brushes the skin in one place for too long. The resulting injury is a burn-like sore. Once you have brushed a small area, take the "rough" side of your comb and comb through the fur. When you are able to do this, do the same thing using the fine side of the comb. If you find a stubborn mat, take the end of your rough side of the comb and use it like a pick as shown at left.
If the mat still won’t come out, you can try using a scissors, but be careful! When using a scissors to clip a rabbit’s fur, be sure to place your comb between the rabbit’s skin and the scissors, as shown. This will help prevent cuts. Once you have finished with that area, move up. Do this until you have finished with the back and sides.
Grooming the Belly:
The belly and groin area are definitely the most difficult part to groom on your rabbit. Because most bunnies don’t like to be on their backs for long periods of time (some not at all), it can be a real challenge. The best recommendation I can give is to trim them short in these areas. You can do this either by using a scissors or a pet clipper. In either case, things can get tricky. One person needs to hold the rabbit on its back while the other trims. You can also try holding them under their arms with the rabbit’s legs on a firm surface. Be sure to be careful around their genitals and nipples. (Yes - boys have them too!) Take your time, and if needed, take a break.
One alternative to clipping your rabbit’s belly yourself, is to find a patient and knowledgeable pet groomer. You should consider this only if your rabbit travels well and is not easily stressed (although there are some mobile grooming services that can come directly to your home). Set up a time where there won’t be a lot of activity going on at the groomer's. Be sure that they allow you to stay there and hold the rabbit while they clip. Don’t leave your rabbit at the facility, like you do a dog. This can cause extreme stress.
Final Tips:
If at any time during the grooming process, your rabbit gets restless or nervous, stop and take a break. Start slowly; those mats will still be there tomorrow. Also, be sure to reward and praise your rabbit throughout the grooming. This will help them associate grooming with positive things.
These steps are just a guide. Modify any or all of these directions to best suit your furry friend. Remember, a regular grooming routine, especially for long-haired rabbits, is an important part of keeping your bunny happy and healthy.
