Flemish Giant Rabbit
Scientific Name: Oryctolagus cuniculus domesticus
Species Name & Origin: Known as the “Flemish Giant” because the breed originated in Flanders (Belgium) and is famous for its unusually large size.
Size & Lifespan: One of the largest rabbit breeds. Adults commonly reach 15–22 lbs, with exceptional individuals exceeding 25 lbs. Lifespan averages 5–8 years, sometimes 10+ with premium care.
Native Habitat: Domestic breed descended from European wild rabbits; natural ancestors lived in temperate forests and grasslands.
Behaviors: Calm, gentle, slow-moving, curious. They love exploring, stretching out flat, and lounging. They can be skittish with sudden sounds but generally mellow.
Social Structure: Social animals. Can live singly with human attention or with other rabbits if properly bonded.
Activity Pattern: Mostly crepuscular—most active at dawn and dusk.
Why They Look How They Look: Selective breeding for size, heavy bone structure, large ears for cooling, and soft dense fur.
Fun Facts:
– Nicknamed the “Gentle Giant.”
– Known to act more like a small dog than a rabbit.
– Can learn simple tricks and use litter boxes.
ENCLOSURE
A Flemish Giant needs much more space than standard rabbits. Minimum indoor pen size is 4 ft x 6 ft, with daily free-roam time. Larger is better. If outdoors, provide a predator-proof, roofed, fully enclosed run.
Use soft bedding such as hay, aspen shavings, paper bedding, or a thin layer of cypress mulch under hay. Avoid pine/cedar.
Ideal temperature range is 60–70°F with low humidity. They tolerate up to 80°F but heat stress becomes a danger. Keep them out of Florida heat. Indoors or climate-controlled spaces are best.
Provide hide boxes, tunnels, chew toys, and thick hay piles. No UVB required. A clean, dry environment is essential.
DIET & HYDRATION
Weekly Feeding Schedule (Adult Flemish Giant):
– Daily unlimited timothy hay (main staple).
– 2–4 cups of mixed leafy greens per day (split AM/PM).
– 1/2–1 cup of quality rabbit pellets per day depending on body size.
– Occasional treats 1–2× per week only.
Staples: Timothy hay, orchard grass, quality rabbit pellets, romaine, spring mix, cilantro, parsley, carrot tops, bok choy, kale (in moderation).
Treats: Fruits (apple, banana, berries), carrots, broccoli leaves. Use tiny portions.
No Feed/Toxic: Iceberg lettuce, avocado, onions, garlic, chocolate, nuts, seeds, rhubarb, houseplants, processed foods.
Hydration: Fresh water always available in a large crock or bottle. Crocs are preferred since they drink heavily. Ensure water stays cool and clean in Florida heat.
Supplements: Usually no calcium supplement needed if diet is balanced. Avoid over-supplementing. Occasional probiotic can help during stress or travel.
Diet Behaviors: Flemish Giants can overeat pellets and gain weight quickly. Monitor body condition closely. They may stop eating if stressed—this is an emergency (GI stasis).
HEALTH
Main risks include GI stasis, heat stroke, respiratory infections, dental overgrowth, and parasites such as mites or coccidia.
GI stasis is the most dangerous—if they stop eating or pooping for 8–12 hours, treat as an emergency.
Keep their environment clean to prevent flystrike (flies laying eggs on dirty fur).
Provide regular nail trims and dental checks (teeth grow continuously).
HANDLING
Flemish Giants are gentle but very fragile despite their size. Their spine can easily injure if they kick or twist.
Handle by supporting the chest and hindquarters at all times. Never pick up by the ears.
They tolerate handling but too much can stress them. Keep sessions calm and short.
They are excellent for shows with kids because they are calm, soft, and friendly, but must be closely supervised to prevent children from lifting them incorrectly.
At Shows (Shadow’s Reptiles Consideration):
– Friendly: Yes. Often extremely sweet.
– Messiness: Moderate. They may poop pellets regularly; plan for this.
– Show Frequency: Can do multiple shows a day if kept cool and stress-free.
– Boxing/Transport: Can be crated for a day with hay, water breaks, and airflow.
– Good with heat: No. Must stay in AC or cool shade. High heat is dangerous.