UK breed page gives 2.26-3.17 kg (5-7 lb); another guide gives 7-9 lb (about 3.2-4.1 kg).
glossy, dense roll-back normal fur about 2.5 cm long
A neat, compact rabbit with a gently arched back, a head a little longer than it is wide, and upright ears about 10 cm long. The short, glossy coat has few guard hairs and springs back into place when stroked the wrong way.21
A calm, friendly and intelligent rabbit with a steady nature. It tends to suit families and can be taught to use a litter tray and come when called.2
Needs daily exercise in a safe, roomy space outside its hutch.32
The short coat is easy to keep; a regular brush, more often while moulting, keeps it glossy. Outdoor housing must be weatherproof and roomy.2
Welfare guidance asks for a combined shelter and exercise area of at least 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high for a pair of medium rabbits, tall enough to stand up on the back legs and long enough to stretch out fully.32
Unlimited hay or grass should form the bulk of the diet, with fresh water always available, plus some leafy greens and a small measured portion of pellets. Fruit and starchy vegetables are for occasional treats only.32
A sociable animal that should share its home with at least one compatible rabbit, plus regular gentle time with people.3
British breeders Chas Banfield and C. Pope developed the Siberian around 1930, aiming for an even, single-colour pelt for the fur industry. Lilac was the last colour added, created by Ron Crowther in 1946, and after fur demand faded the breed carried on as a show and pet rabbit.12
Despite the name, the breed was created in Britain, not Siberia.1
The lilac colour was the final one developed, by Ron Crowther in 1946.1
Its 'roll-back' coat springs back into place when you stroke it from tail to head.2
It should not be confused with an old, long-vanished Angora type that was also once called 'Siberian'.2
A typical home-care rhythm for a Siberian Rabbit. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
Encourages rabbits to eat more hay while giving them a tasty treat.
How much: One skewer per rabbit per day
Recipe from PDSA
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
Your Siberian Rabbit needs unlimited hay every day, plus a daily portion of leafy greens and a small measured amount of pellets. Furry Diary's starting plan is to refill hay daily and follow the food label and your vet for exact pellet amounts.234 Pet Wiki plan
Unlimited hay or grass should be the main food, with fresh water always, plus leafy greens and a small measured portion of pellets. Avoid avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, muesli mixes, and any processed human food, as these are dangerous.2345
No, you should not bathe a Siberian Rabbit, as it can stress them and harm their skin. Instead, spot-clean any dirty areas with a damp cloth and check the fur around the tail daily, especially in summer.2 Pet Wiki plan
Yes, a weekly brush keeps the short coat glossy, and daily brushing during moulting helps remove loose fur. This is part of Furry Diary's starting care plan.2 Pet Wiki plan
Trim nails every six weeks or as needed, and check teeth weekly since they never stop growing. Provide plenty of hay to wear down teeth naturally, and ask your vet if you need help with nail trims or dental checks.2 Pet Wiki plan
A pair of medium rabbits needs a combined shelter and exercise area of at least 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high, tall enough to stand up and long enough to stretch out. Daily exercise in a safe, roomy space outside the hutch is essential, and Furry Diary suggests at least 4 hours of free roam each day.23 Pet Wiki plan
This sociable rabbit should share its home with at least one compatible rabbit, plus regular gentle time with people. A bonded pair is ideal for their happiness.3
The lifespan of a Siberian Rabbit varies depending on care and genetics, so ask your vet or a good breeder for specific guidance. With proper diet and housing, they can live many happy years.
Yes, its calm, friendly and steady nature makes it a good fit for families, and it can be taught to use a litter tray and come when called. Always supervise young children to ensure gentle handling.2
Support the rabbit's full body weight with one hand under the chest and the other under the hindquarters, keeping it secure and calm. Never lift by the ears or scruff, and ask a vet or experienced owner for a demonstration if unsure.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.
Havana Rabbit
Beveren
Lilac Rabbit