Most robust pet rabbit breed

Question
A friend of mine who is into rabbits told me that pet rabbits are fragile creatures.  They require a lot of care, easily become sick and easily die.  She told me that taking care of a rabbit can involve frequent, costly veterinarian visits.

Which breed of rabbits that are suitable as pets would be the most medically hardy?


Answer
UPDATE

Hi, I thought I was clear.  All rabbits are fragile, require a more observant eye, and they can easily injure or get sick and die.  From a species point of view, all breeds of rabbits face the same potential problems.  They all have the same gi tract issues, big or small.  They all have the same skeletal issues, big or small.  Temperatures affect both the big and small in the same way.  From a purely medical point of view, they are all susceptible to the same things.   And that is what you are asking.

From your question, it sounds like you are looking for a pet rabbit that is able to medically take the most 'punishment', and/or be the least expensive from a vet bill point of view.  I am telling you that they all are susceptible to the same injuries, illnesses and such.  And this is also why I said you should probably consider getting a dog or cat, because any dog or cat is going to be more medically hardy than any rabbit breed you'd pick.


Hi,

I am glad you are asking before you actually get a rabbit.

They are all more delicate than cats and dogs.  Their skeletons are lighter, so they can get hurt more easily if they fall or are dropped.

Their gi tract is more delicate than dogs and cats (and people).  Their gi tract is more like a horse's or cow's gi tract.  They need to be fed proper diets and you cannot leave them for a couple days with heaps of food and water like a dog and cat.

Further because of their natures and the kind of animal they are, you need to bunnyproof the house (any areas they will be in).  They are also very quiet, and when out, you really need to assume they are under your feet before moving around.  They are not good in houses with a lot of loud noises or younger children.

I would suggest not adopting a rabbit as a pet.  You would probably be better off with a dog or cat.

Lee