The Ultimate Guide to Grooming Long-Haired Rabbits

Keep Your Bunny Happy, Healthy and Mat-Free

Long-haired rabbits, such as Angoras, Lionheads and Cashmere's, are absolutely adorable but require a bit of extra TLC to keep their coats in top condition. Regular grooming isn’t just about keeping them looking schmick – it’s essential for their health and wellbeing. Matting, skin infections, and even flystrike can be avoided with a consistent grooming routine. Here’s the best way to care for your fluffy friend, complete with a step-by-step guide and recommended Aussie-friendly products.

Step-by-Step Guide to Grooming Long-Haired Rabbits

1. Prepare Your Space and Gather Supplies

   1. Find a quiet spot with good lighting and a non-slip surface (a towel on a table works well).

   2. Gather your grooming kit: brush, comb, small scissors (preferably with rounded tips), pet-safe detangler, nail clippers, and some treats for positive reinforcement.

2. Get Your Bunny Comfortable

   1. Speak softly and gently pet your rabbit to help them relax.

   2. Lift them onto your lap or the table, supporting their hindquarters.

3. Brushing Out the Coat

   1. Start by gently running your fingers through the fur to locate any mats or tangles.

   2. Use a soft slicker brush to work through the coat, brushing in the direction of hair growth.

   3. For stubborn tangles, apply a small amount of pet-safe detangling spray and gently tease apart with a wide-tooth comb.

4. Removing Mats

   1. If you find a mat that won’t brush out, carefully trim it away using rounded-tip pet scissors.

   2. Always keep scissors parallel to the skin and go slowly to avoid nicks.

5. Check Ears, Eyes, and Bottom

   1. Wipe away any discharge with a damp cotton pad.

   2. Make sure the bottom area is clean and dry to prevent flystrike, especially in warm weather.

6. Trim Nails (If Needed)

   1. Use rabbit nail clippers to carefully trim the tips of the nails, avoiding the quick.

7. Reward and Reassure

   1. Give your bunny a favourite treat and plenty of cuddles for being a good sport!

      
      

Recommended Products for Grooming Long-Haired Rabbits

• Bunny Gear Hair Buster Grooming Comb – Gentle and effective for daily brushing.

• FURminator Pet Hair Scissors – Rounded tips for safe mat removal.

• Ivory Coat Detangling Spray or Wahl Detangling Spray – Helps prevent and remove tangles.

• FURminator Long Hair Deshedding Tool - Helps get under the long hair to remove mats.

• Wahl 2 in 1 EZ Nail Clipper and File – Sized for small pets like rabbits.

• Oxbow Rabbit Treats – Tasty rewards for positive reinforcement.

• Wahl KM10 Electric clipper – with a number 10 blade, is perfect for making life easier (tip: get at least 2 x 10 blades, so if one goes blunt you have another one ready to finish the job, and also get the Wahl Blade Ice to keep it lubricated and not hot against the rabbit's skin)

Tips for Success

• Groom your bunny at least 3-4 times a week – daily is best for breeds like Angoras/Cashmere's.

• Check for mats in hidden spots: underarms, belly, and around the tail.

• Be patient. If your rabbit is stressed, take a break and try again later.

• Never bathe your rabbit – spot clean with a damp cloth if needed.

• If mats are severe or you’re unsure, see a rabbit-savvy vet or groomer.

With regular grooming, your long-haired rabbit will look and feel their best – and you’ll both enjoy some quality bonding time. Happy brushing!