Smoke Pearl Rabbit Breed History/Origin
The Smoke Pearl Rabbit appeared for the first time in public in a show in 1926. Mr. Lawrie Stenhouse of Scotland developed this breed, and it is one of just two rabbit breeds that are truly of Scottish origin. Originally, Mr. Stenhouse bred Chinchilla Rabbits, Sable Rabbits, and Beveren Rabbits, but it isn’t clear whether the Smoke Pearl Rabbit is the result of using dilute Sable Rabbits or if there was a crossing of Blue Beverens with Sables.
When this breed was shown for the first time in the middle of the 1920s, it was known as the Smoke Beige Rabbit. However, the name was changed in 1932 because it was believed that Smoke Pearl was more attractive. That was also the year that the British Fur Rabbit Society accepted this new breed.
Beyond that point in history, however, there are only a few records regarding the breed. A lot of experts think that it never gained the popularity that it needed outside of Scotland, or that it may have gone extinct. But about 10 years later, the Smoke Pearls started making appearances again within the litters of Sable Rabbits in the Midlands. Breeders were then determined to make this breed a success. They lobbied for it to be accepted by the new show society, and a national club was formed in 1945, when the Smoke Pearl started to gain in popularity again.
Today, the Smoke Pearl Rabbit is a rare breed, so it is difficult to find.
The Smoke Pearl Rabbit has a luxurious, thick, and soft coat.
Overall Description
When looking at a Smoke Pearl Rabbit, you will notice that this is a small to medium sized breed that features a well-muscled and neat body with a slight arch to its back. It also carries the tail in a straight line, and the legs and feet are straight as well. The head is longer rather than square, and the well furred ears are short but they are held upright. Also, the eyes will be bright and bold and have a red glow to them.
Coat
Because the Smoke Pearl Rabbit was bred originally for its fur, it features a luxurious, thick, dense, and soft coat. In fact, the coat is so thick that this rabbit has a cuddly appearance.
Colors
The color of the beautiful coat on the Smoke Pearl Rabbit is a smoky brown or blue. In fact, the main colors for this breed include beige, blue, and light pearl gray. You will notice that there are smoky points that are combined with white guard hairs and a pale saddle area, creating the impression of a light underside. The ears, though, should not have any white ticking.
The Smoke Pearl Rabbit is a rare breed, so it is difficult to find.
Care Requirements
You can house your Smoke Pearl Rabbit indoors or outside. Just make sure that your pet has an outdoor hutch that is completely weatherproof and waterproof. It should be placed in a spot that is secure and sheltered, and it should be spacious and easy for you to clean. It should also be large enough for your rabbit to comfortably move around in all directions, stand up on his hind legs, and hop.
Even if your pet will be housed indoors, providing him with regular access to a safe garden area will give him the exposure to the great outdoors that he craves, and it will allow him to be active as he explores. When your pet is exploring and playing indoors, however, be sure your belongings have been rabbit-proofed to prevent things like cables from being chewed on. You can also train your pet to use a litter tray, and he should have his own cage or crate to retreat to for silence and security.
Health
The Smoke Pearl Rabbit is a hybrid breed, so it is considered relatively hardy, as well as generally free from hereditary diseases. Nevertheless, you should still watch out for the ailments that commonly affect all rabbits, as they are delicate animals that require plenty of love and care.
One of the main things that you will need to look out for is overgrown teeth. Because rabbits’ teeth grow continuously, you will need to provide your pet with plenty of high-fiber vegetables, as well as gnaw toys that are designed for rabbits. Doing so will ensure the teeth remain healthy and are always at the appropriate length.
Whether you house your rabbit indoors or outside, always protect your pet from extreme temperature fluctuations, as well as polluted or dusty conditions that could results in respiratory problems.
By feeding your rabbit a diet that is packed with vegetables, hays, and rabbit pellets, you can rest assured that your rabbit will not become overweight or obese. Overweight rabbits won’t be able to groom themselves properly, leaving them vulnerable to developing flystrike.
You can also talk to your vet about having your Smoke Pearl Rabbit vaccinated against conditions like myxomatosis and Viral Hemorrhagic Disease (VHD), and you can discuss having your rabbit treated for worms, ticks, and fleas as well.
These rabbits are laid-back and enjoy being around people.
Temperament/Behavior
In addition to it attractive appearance, the Smoke Pearl Rabbit is popular because of its wonderful, affectionate personality. These rabbits are laid-back and enjoy being around people because they prefer having the attention on them. They also enjoy cuddling and being stroked, and they will bond rather quickly with other Smoke Pearl Rabbits, so you can keep more than one as a pet.
This rabbit breed is a great choice for families with children, as well as beginner rabbit owners. They really do crave human company, and they require playtime and fun. They also don’t mind being picked up by those who know how to handle rabbits gently, and they like being petted and stroked. Just be sure that you and your family have plenty of time to devote to your pet before introducing a Smoke Pearl Rabbit into your household.
Photo credit: becki_moorcroft/Flickr; Neil Robertson/Flickr
