The Ultimate Guide to Grooming Short-Haired Rabbits

Keep Your Bunny Happy, Healthy, and Looking Their Best

Rabbits are delightful companions, and while short-haired breeds may seem low-maintenance, regular grooming is essential for their health and wellbeing. Grooming not only keeps your bunny’s coat in top nick but also strengthens your bond and helps you spot any health concerns early on. Here’s a step-by-step guide to grooming your short-haired rabbit, plus product recommendations to make the job a breeze.

Why Groom Short-Haired Rabbits?

• Removes loose fur and prevents hairballs

• Reduces shedding around the house

• Helps check for skin issues, lumps, or parasites

• Builds trust between you and your bunny

• Rabbits are seasonal shedders, removing excess fur reduces the ingestion of hair leading to gut complications

Step-by-Step Guide to Grooming Your Short-Haired Rabbit

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 or electric clippers.

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

5. Trim Nails (If Needed)

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

6. Reward and Reassure

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

   
   

Recommended Grooming Products for Short-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)

Final Tips

• Never bathe your rabbit – spot clean only if necessary (with baby wipes or gentle rabbit-friendly dry shampoo).

• Handle your bunny gently and patiently to build trust.

• Regular vet check-ups ensure your rabbit’s overall health.

With the right tools and a gentle touch, grooming your short-haired rabbit becomes an enjoyable part of your weekly routine. Your bunny will thank you with snuggles and a shiny, healthy coat!