Which?

Question
Which animal is better for a middle aged woman who wants a calm animal to hold in her lap--a cavy or a rabbit?  And if it's a rabbit, is there a kind that's the best for being calm and cuddly?

Answer
Hi Deb,

I would have to say a rabbit.  They live longer and they can be litter trained. The problem is that all rabbits have unique personalities.  Most of them don't like to be held but occasionally you get one that loves it.  No matter they still crave attention.  It may not like to be held but often time house rabbits will come up to you and consider you their bonded mate.  There are also ways to calm them.  A rabbit that is neutered will have less aggressive tendencies and be more likely to use the litter pan faithfully.  

To tell you the truth all rabbits can have good traits.  The best experience I have had is with Flemish Giants.  They are called the gentle giant and they can grow up to 20 pounds.  Another breed that is usually quite passive is american fuzzy lops.  The only problem with them is that they have to be groomed a few times a week.  This may be the reason they are so tame because they are used to being flipped in all directions.

I also suggest a buck for a few reasons.  Bucks have a tendency to be more passive.  Does will become defensive of their space when they reach sexual maturity.  Usually once they have these tendencies even if they are neutered they have already learned the behavior.  The big asset of a buck is that it is far cheaper to get a buck neutered than a doe.  Personally we always suggest to people looking for pets to get a buck.

Again all breeds of rabbits can have docile personalities.  Often times you don't know until you get them.  I strongly suggest that you get the bunny from a reputable breeder and preferably someone that handles them from birth.  Stay away from pet stores as you have no clue what you are getting.  Purebreds usually have less problems later in life (such as bad teeth) but again it can still happen.  

One more thing you can try is to contact the local House Rabbit Society in your region.  They will let you visit with the rabbit and make sure that you are getting what you want.  The only downfall is that there is an adoption fee.  Honestly this fee is worth it when you know what you are getting ahead of time.

If you would like information on HRS in your region please contact Mr. Lee Meyer or Ms. Dana Krempels who are both experts here.  I am not a member of the HRS as I am a breeder and I don't have access to the contact information for the chapters.

I hope this has helped.  If you have anymore questions please feel free to ask.

Sincerely,

Pam