Every rabbit owner finds pleasure in holding and cuddling their pet because they are shy and gentle.
At some point, they get to realize that their bunnies’ fur is changing color. Then the question can rabbit’s fur change color comes up.
In this article, we will explain why rabbits’ fur change color and also answer other questions regarding rabbits’ color change.
Contents
Can Rabbits Fur Change Color?
Yes, rabbit fur change color. They regularly lose and change their fur regularly.
When the fur regrows, it is soft, clean, and most times with a different color.
The shredding of rabbits’ fur into modified skin is called molting. In most species, these molting processes are enhanced during the winter.
During this period, they immediately shred their fur and adapt to the color according to snow intensity.
Wild rabbits in their natural habitat change color according to changes in the season because it protects them from predators.
Why Do Rabbits Fur Change Color?
From the question answered above, we now know that a newborn rabbit is prone to change several colors before adulthood.
The color change in rabbits is caused by molting and adjustment in weather changes.
Rabbits are born with the absence of fur. They develop fur gradually and have their first molt around four to five months after birth.
Rabbits continue to molt following about three months intervals which also corresponds with changes in season.
During winter, rabbits need thicker fur to survive the cold therefore their hue will also change to accommodate the weather.
During summer, the rabbit’s fur becomes darker because the rabbit produces more melanin due to increased sunshine.
Why Do Rabbits Have A Darker-Colored Summer Coat
There are some reasons why rabbits have darker furs during the summer;
- Camouflage: Helps them blend with the environment during the summer.
- Lighter Fur: Helps them adapt to the hot weather during the summer.
- Reproduction: Since they survive well during the summer, they tend to reproduce more.
- Less Stress: Being able to stay cool despite the hot weather, and also being with the environment means less stress for your pet.
Colors Rabbits Adapt According To Temperature Fluctuation?
There are different colors rabbit fur can change to during temperature fluctuations.
During the winter, their fur change to white due to the intense snow effect.
They sometimes have yellow spots because they urinate a lot during this period and they also spend too much time in their litter box.
Their fur most times soaks in their urine thereby creating multiple yellow spots on their white color.
During the summer period, most rabbits have darker fur colors. Which is either brown or gray.
FAQ
Does Rabbit Fur Change With Age?
Yes. As the bunny ages, the fur coat may become thinner and finer, or more “grizzled” and coarse.
Do Bunnies Hair Change?
As all rabbit owners are aware, rabbits molt (often referred to as shedding) regularly.
Initially, when rabbits are young, their baby coat is replaced at around 5 months by a transitional coat.
Do All Rabbits Fur Turn White In Winter?
No not all. Most rabbits gradually turn white as winter approaches.
How Long Does Rabbit Fur Last?
A healthy rabbit will usually change her coat twice a year. If all things are normal, the shed areas will regrow fur as the old coat falls out.
Some unfortunate rabbits seem to shed all the time.
Conclusion
The molting process in rabbits differs. For some it might start from head to toe, some shed theirs in clumps, while some will shed all at once.
To help your rabbit during the molting process, provide enough hay to help facilitate the process.
Furthermore, the right quantity of protein will also help facilitate the molting process.
Carefully read through the article then drop your questions, opinions, and doubt in the comment section below.