Lionhead Rabbit Price
The Lionhead rabbit, a relatively recent breed in the rabbit world, first made its appearance in the United States in the late 1990s. It wasn't until 2014, however, that the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) officially recognized this unique breed.
Originating in Belgium, the Lionhead rabbit is believed to be the result of crossbreeding between the Swiss Fox and Netherland Dwarf breeds. A genetic mutation, known as the mane gene, led to the distinctive wool-like hair around its head, inspiring its lion-esque name.
The cost of acquiring a Lionhead rabbit varies and depends on several factors, including the rabbit's age, the quality and color of its coat, and the source from which you are purchasing. Generally, prices found on classified websites from private breeders range from $15 to $105 (≈7 hours to sacrifice at work earning $15/hour).
How much does a Lionhead rabbit cost?
The cost of a Lionhead can range from $20 to $125 (≈1 day working without days off at $15/hour). The cost is dependent on factors such as the rabbit's quality, where it's purchased from, and whether it comes with a pedigree.
Hoobly, an online classifieds platform, featured a wide range of listings, with prices ranging from as low as $10 (≈40 minutes working at a $15/hour wage) to upwards of $70 (≈4.7 hours to sacrifice at work earning $15/hour).
RunnyBunny also suggests a similar price bracket of $20 to $125 (≈1 day working without days off at $15/hour) for these rabbits.
Lionhead rabbit prices on different websites
Here are some prices found on other websites offering Lionhead rabbits for sale:
- Bluebunnies.org: They had a listing for three cute Lionhead bunnies, about 8 weeks old, friendly with kids and adults, and on a high-quality diet, with each bunny priced at $20 (≈1.3 hours of your life traded for $15/hour). Another listing included a bunny enclosure with two Lionhead bunnies (one grey and one white with grey) for $60 (≈4 hours to sacrifice at work earning $15/hour) for both. Additionally, there were dwarf Lionhead bunnies, 10-12 weeks old, for $50 (≈3.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour) each, except for a blue-eyed white bunny named Rodger, priced at $100 (≈6.7 hours of continuous work at a $15/hour job)
- Rabbitsforsale.com: They featured a pair of bonded mother and daughter gray and light yellow Lionhead bunnies, complete with cage and water bottle, looking for a forever home, priced at $95 (≈6.3 hours working without breaks at $15/hour)
- Happily Ever After Rabbitry: While they didn't list specific prices, they noted that the pricing of their bunnies is influenced by factors such as body type, head/ear shape, color variations, and gender
- Lionheadrabbit.com: This site offers Lionhead Rabbits for sale in the USA in various colors, suggesting a wide range of choices for potential buyers.
- Abbey's Lionhead Rabbitry: A small, family-owned rabbitry in Coatesville, PA, they have been breeding Lionhead rabbits for 4 years, with adult and baby bunnies available for sale at $35 (≈2.3 hours of uninterrupted labor at $15/hour) each
These listings demonstrate the diversity in pricing and options available for those interested in purchasing Lionhead rabbits. The prices vary based on age, color, and whether the rabbits come with additional items like cages. This information adds depth to your article by providing current market examples and pricing.
Extra costs when owning a Lionhead rabbit
Food and Treats
Lionhead rabbits require a balanced diet. Experts recommend a half cup of high-quality pellets daily, supplemented with fresh leafy greens. Some owners also offer rabbit-safe vegetables and fruits occasionally. Overall, expect to pay around $20 to $30 (≈2 hours of labor required at $15/hour) on a bag of pellets, with additional costs for fresh produce.
You may also find our articles on the cost of a Holland Lop Bunny or a real lion interesting.
Cage
A one-time investment, the cage should be as spacious as possible. Prices start at $55 (≈3.7 hours of uninterrupted labor at $15/hour) and can increase based on size, material, and the retailer. The cage should include straw or a soft blanket for bedding and must have a constant supply of fresh water. Remember, rabbits need time outside their cage to explore and exercise.
Supplies and Grooming
Given the Lionhead's woolly hair, regular grooming is essential to prevent matting and potential skin infections. A quality rabbit brush might cost around $15 (≈1 hour of uninterrupted labor at $15/hour). Other necessary items include nail clippers, a gentle ear cleaning solution, and a litter box for those planning to potty train their rabbits. The total cost for these supplies shouldn't exceed $50 (≈3.3 hours of labor required at $15/hour).
Spaying/Neutering
If you're not planning to breed your rabbit, spaying or neutering is advisable. This procedure can cost between $50 and $150 (≈1.3 days of continuous work at a $15/hour job).
Healthcare and Vaccinations
Like other pets, Lionhead rabbits require regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations against diseases like VHD and Myxomatosis. Initial vet visits start at $55 (≈3.7 hours of uninterrupted labor at $15/hour), with additional costs for vaccinations and dental care.
You might also like the articles about the cost of a dwarf bunny or an Angora rabbit.
What’s included in the adoption fee?
The adoption package usually includes nail trimming, a small food sample for transition, and pedigree documentation, if applicable. If shipping is involved, a crate may be provided. The specifics can vary between breeders, so it's important to confirm what's included before finalizing the adoption.
Lionhead rabbit care overview
The Lionhead rabbit is distinguished by its mane-like fur, about 2 inches long, encircling its head, much like a lion's mane, which led to its breed name. These rabbits are compact, round, and categorized as a fancy breed. Known for their calm temperament, Lionheads are a popular choice for families with children.
The Lionhead typically weighs around 3 pounds. In the U.S., the ARBA recognizes this breed in various color types, including Chocolate and Seal, Ruby Eyed White, and Tortoise, a blend of black, blue, chocolate, and lilac hues.
With proper care and a stress-free living environment, a Lionhead rabbit can enjoy a lifespan of up to ten years. Their care requires a commitment to proper diet, housing, grooming, and regular veterinary visits to ensure a healthy and happy life.
You should add that hay is a huge cost depending on where you are located. It should make up 80% or more of your rabbit’s diet. Also, “as many greens” is wrong. You should only be feeding 1-2 cups max per day usually depending on the size of your rabbit. Too many greens can give your bun high calcium issues and/or diarrhea which is actually deadly to buns.
Also, a doggy x-pen is great for a “cage” option. Most “rabbit cages” are much too small. Minimum cage size should be 4’x4′ and tall enough for them to stand up in, but the bigger the better. You can potty train them and rabbit proof your home so they can free roam though, so that’s what I do. Please do tons of research involving talking to multiple bunny parents before purchasing or adopting a bun. They’re the 3rd most abandoned pet in the US and one of the most abused and neglected by far due to people thinking they can keep them in a small cage and not let them explore. Tons of very depressed buns in the US, and being ill-informed or unwilling to listen to others is the main cause of rabbit neglect and abuse. Please know what you’re getting into!!