epilepsy in dwarf lionhead rabbits

Question
Hi Sarah,

I am an experienced guinea pig owner, but am considering taking on a pet rabbit. I understand that the diet of a rabbit is different to that of a guinea pig, and plan to thoroughly research the practicalities of having this new pet. I hasten to add that I do not tend to keep a rabbit with my guineas pigs, but in a separate cage.

Whilst doing my research into the breed, I have come across an American website that is investigating the increasingly reported incidents of epilepsy in lionhead rabbits, particularly those that come from English bloodlines. As I live in the UK, this concerns me, as I presume it would be hard to come across a more 'foreign' bunny. Are lionheads, and dwarf lionheads inparticular predisposed to this condition? And is it purely genetic, or does a controlled environment decrease the chance of seizures?

I have also read that lionheads overgroom each other, so it is best to keep them on their own. Is this true? As a guinea pig owner I know how sociable small animals can be, but I suppose rabbits might be different ...

Many thanks,
Jenny.

Answer
hello jenny

no, rabbits are just as sociable as guinea pigs and love to have a companion. usually rabbits of a different sexes get along better with eachother. rabbits can also get along well with guinea pigs too.

i have never heard of this information before and many people i know have had  lionhead rabbits and have had no problems with them. as rabbits of any breed can have seizures not just one breed. i really would not worry about this. also it is absolutley fine to get two lionhead rabbits together as they groom as much as any other breeds this is why this breed needs loads of grooming from owners.

hope this helps

sarah