If you have decided to get a rabbit as a pet, it is certainly interesting to learn a little about the different breeds of rabbits. Below you will find a few breed profiles. Decide for yourself which rabbit suits you best. You may also want to visit one or two breeders and get some more detailed advice.
One of the most popular breeds for keeping as pets are dwarf lop rabbits. They come in many different colors. They have a calm and even temperament and are relatively easy to tame. Lop rabbits are born with upright ears, which then droop downwards. Either on both sides or, in some cases, one ear droops and the other remains upright.
Due to their floppy ears, dwarf lop rabbits are prone to middle ear infections. Even with regular checks and care, the disease occurs repeatedly, sometimes even unnoticed by the owners. Sometimes the animals then have impaired hearing or even become deaf. In addition, the ears restrict the animal's field of vision to the rear.
Lionhead guinea pigs are also often sold in pet shops. They are cute to look at and come in different sizes and weights with a wide variety of "manes." Lionhead guinea pigs are active, cheeky, and sometimes even bitchy. However, it is precisely their chic mane that can cause the animals distress. If the mane is too thick, it can obstruct their vision and cause repeated eye infections. As these birds lack an outer coat, they are also vulnerable to moisture.
This is the typical dwarf rabbit. These little rabbits weigh between one and 1.5 kilograms and come in a variety of colors. This breed is active, cautious, quick, and skittish.
Unfortunately, dwarf rabbits are more prone to dental and respiratory problems. Malocclusion is a possible side effect of their small, squat head. The shortened jaw can also impair breathing. If the teeth press on the tear duct, this can lead to eye problems.
German Giants are – as their name suggests – the largest of all rabbits. They are calm, well-balanced, very trusting and affectionate, and they love food. A very good-natured breed that comes in a variety of colors. German Giants need space and plenty of exercise. If they live in cramped conditions, they quickly become apathetic.
Their life expectancy is only about four years. The gentle giants have weak joints and hearts.
Incidentally, the German Ram is similar: they are large, have a gentle nature, and have floppy ears, which can lead to the typical ear problems associated with rams (described for the Dwarf Ram).
The "Teddy" dogs have beautiful long fur. They do not need to be shorn. These little fur balls often appear aloof and uninterested, but this is due to the thick fur on their faces. Their facial expressions are not particularly easy to read. The animals' fur is not very water-repellent because they lack a protective top coat. Fur care and trimming around the eyes are a must for this breed.
There are a few other breeds, but the ones listed here are probably the most interesting for beginners—and they are the breeds that are also available in pet stores. However, it is always advisable to look for good breeders and seek their advice if you want to buy a rabbit. This way, you can be sure that you know how old your rabbit really is and where it comes from.
The adrenal gland disorder known as Cushing's disease was first described in humans in 1910 by Harvey Williams Cushing, after whom it was named. It involves increased stimulation of the adrenal cortex, resulting in excessive cortisol production (hyperadrenocorticism). The resulting symptoms are referred to as Cushing's syndrome. Unlike Addison's disease (adrenal insufficiency), Cushing's disease is not life-threatening. It mostly affects older, small dogs and breeds such as boxers, poodles, and dachshunds.
When a dog's kidneys can only perform their vital functions to a limited extent, this is referred to as kidney failure. The disease is often not recognized immediately, as it initially manifests itself with very unspecific symptoms. Dogs over the age of five are particularly affected, with certain breeds having a genetic predisposition to kidney disease.
Rotaviruses are the most common cause of diarrhea in foals. They are widespread among horses and highly contagious. However, they only cause symptoms in young foals.
What a wonderful feeling. Finally, your own horse! Everything went smoothly, from the trial ride to the pre-purchase examination to the purchase transaction. Your horse can move into its new stall. For new horse owners, this is a very exciting time, which is sure to raise a few questions about keeping conditions, health care, training, and much more. First and foremost, you should purchase basic equipment for your new horse that can be used for working and riding. You will quickly discover that you need a lot more than just a saddle and bridle.
This disease is a highly contagious bacterial infection of the mare's reproductive system, which is mainly transmitted through mating. The stallion is only a carrier of the pathogen and does not show any clinical symptoms. The disease, known as contagious equine metritis (CEM), was first described in detail in 1977 and is a notifiable disease in Germany.
EOTRH, or more precisely Equine Odontoclastic Tooth Resorption and Hypercementosis, is currently considered an incurable inflammatory condition affecting the incisors and canines of horses. The disease has only been known for about 10 years, but is now affecting more and more older horses. In many cases, the disease is not detected until late stages, as it is not visible below the gums at the onset.
Cats are among the most popular pets, with around 14.7 million living in German households alone and a total of approximately 46 million across Europe. Only about half of them are vaccinated and neutered, and therefore well protected against disease and unwanted reproduction. Many thousands of them roam the countryside as abandoned, stray, or feral cats.
Cats are very resilient and do not show symptoms of illness until late stages. When is it an emergency? And what is the right thing to do? Here you will find useful information to help you assess your cat's condition. The most important thing is to stay calm and keep a clear head.
A female dog's heat cycle is a natural process that is necessary for reproduction. Dogs quickly realize when this time has come. During the "heat days," you should therefore be particularly careful if you do not want your female dog to have offspring from a male dog that has wandered into your yard. Conversely, if you want to breed, you need to observe your dog's cycle and take her to the chosen male dog at the right time.
Many things are easier when done as a team – this applies to both humans and animals. There are dogs that help people live with disabilities. These dogs are not only special animals, they are also specially trained.
Rabbit hemorrhagic disease (RHD) is currently the most dangerous disease affecting rabbits. It is caused by a virus and causes blood clotting disorders (hemorrhagic = bleeding, causing hemorrhages). It is highly contagious and occurs worldwide in both domestic and wild rabbits. The infectious disease was first described in China in 1984, which is why it is also known as Chinese disease. Young animals and unvaccinated adult animals are particularly at risk.
Many dog owners will be familiar with this condition, which is colloquially referred to as foreskin inflammation. Recurring, yellowish-green, dripping discharge is very common, especially in young, unneutered male dogs.
