Everything You Need to Know About Lionhead Rabbit Care

We are a family of animal lovers, and when my girls dreamed of having a lionhead rabbit, we knew we had to make it happen! They spent time thinking of the cutest lionhead bunny names and even drew pictures of them. Now that we have our own fluffy companion, we’ve learned so much about their care—and let me tell you, they are SO SWEET!

If you’re considering bringing a lionhead rabbit into your home, it’s important to understand their needs. From their adorable mane-like fur to their affectionate yet timid personality, these small rabbits require special care. In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to know, including grooming, diet, housing, and must-have products to ensure your bunny thrives.

Where Do Lionhead Rabbits Get Their Name?

Lionhead rabbits are irresistibly cute and get their name from their fluffy, mane-like fur. This distinctive feature gives them a lion-like appearance, making them one of the most unique rabbit breeds. They come in a variety of colors, from white and gray to black and tan, and their manes can be single or double, affecting the fullness of their fluff.

5 Things to Know Before Getting a Lionhead Rabbit

Before bringing a lionhead rabbit into your home, here are key things to consider:

1. Lifespan – These rabbits typically live 8-9 years, but with excellent care, they can reach 10 years or more.

2. Personality – They are gentle and affectionate but can be timid. A calm environment helps them feel safe.

3. Size & Space – Despite being small (2.5-3.5 lbs and about 8-10 inches long), they need plenty of room to move and exercise.

4. Climate – Sensitive to extreme temperatures, they should be kept in a moderate climate (50-75°F).

5. Social Needs – They thrive with companionship, so consider adopting a bonded pair if possible.

Essential Care Tips for Your Lionhead Bunny

Grooming

Lionhead rabbits require regular grooming due to their thick manes:

Brushing – Brush 2-3 times a week to prevent matting.

Shedding Season – Increase grooming during warmer months when they shed more.

Trimming – Some owners take their bunny to a groomer for mane maintenance.

Potty Training

Lionhead rabbits can be litter trained:

Litter Box Setup – Place a litter box in their enclosure and clean it regularly.

Safe Litter – Use paper-based or hay-based bedding for safety.

Exercise & Enrichment

Lionhead bunnies are active and need daily exercise:

Safe Play Areas – Provide an enclosed, rabbit-safe space for hopping and exploring.

Toys & Stimulation – Offer rabbit-safe toys to prevent boredom.

Supervised Time Outside – Let them out daily for extra interaction and movement.

Handling & Bonding

Gentle Handling – Always support their back legs when picking them up.

Building Trust – Spend time near them, offer treats, and speak softly to create a bond.

Best Diet for a Lionhead Rabbit

Proper nutrition is key to keeping your lionhead bunny healthy:

What to Feed Your Lionhead Rabbit

Hay – 80-90% of their diet should be high-quality hay like Timothy hay.

Leafy Greens – Offer rabbit-safe greens daily (e.g., romaine lettuce, parsley, cilantro).

Pellets – Provide a small amount of high-fiber rabbit pellets.

Water – Always have fresh, clean water available with a no-drip water bottle.

Foods to Avoid

Fruits & Sugary Treats – Limit due to high sugar content.

Carrots – A common misconception—these should only be occasional treats.

Iceberg Lettuce – Lacks nutrients and can cause digestive issues.

Processed Foods – Avoid bread, crackers, and cereals.

Setting Up the Perfect Home for Your Lionhead Bunny

Providing a comfortable, safe environment is crucial for your rabbit’s well-being.

Indoor vs. Outdoor Housing – Indoor environments are safer, protecting against predators and extreme weather.

Cage Size – Their enclosure should be at least 4×2 feet with a larger playpen area available.

Bedding – Use soft, rabbit-safe bedding like paper-based bedding or fleece liners.

Hideouts & Shelters – Rabbits love to burrow and hide, so provide tunnels or hideaway boxes like this Wooden Bunny Hideaway.

Shop Bunny Essentials

 Housing & Comfort

Spacious Playpen – Rabbit Exercise Pen

Hideout – Wooden Bunny Hideaway

Litter Box – Corner Litter Box

Pet Carrier Apron – Bunny Travel Apron

 Food & Nutrition

Timothy Hay – Premium Hay for Rabbits

Rabbit Pellets – High-Fiber Pellets

Water Dispenser – No-Drip Water Bottle

 Grooming & Health

Bunny Brush – Soft Bristle Grooming Brush

Nail Clippers – Rabbit Nail Clippers

Chew Toys – Bunny Chew Toys

Play & Enrichment

Exercise Pen – Indoor/Outdoor Playpen

Bunny-Safe Toys – Willow Balls & Tunnels

Scratch Pad – Rabbit Digging Pad

Your Lionhead Bunny Journey Begins

Lionhead rabbits are affectionate, adorable pets, but they require proper care, patience, and love. They thrive in a structured, calm environment where they receive daily interaction and a healthy diet.

Bringing a lionhead bunny into your home is a rewarding experience. If you’re considering one, research thoroughly and prepare their space in advance. We are so happy to have our lionhead rabbit, and my girls adore their fluffy new friend!