Otto Brock from San Gabriel, California, developed this species in 1924, producing a soft Sable rabbit in a sepia tone. The rabbit had an entirely different color from the Chinchilla breed, although its body shape remained similar. Although its coat coloration resembles a Chinchilla, it is not related to and cannot interbreed with the Chinchillas. These rabbits’ popularity grew tremendously that the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) accepted it in 1929 before officially documenting it in 1931.
Description
American Sable rabbits are unmistakable due to their unique color patterns. They highly resemble a Siamese cat. American Sable’s were created by crossing various types of Chinchilla Rabbits, producing an entirely new color, while their body remains true to the Chinchilla breed itself. Even though Sable’s first began appearing in the early 20th century, developed by Otto Brock from California, and were accepted as a breed by the ARBA in 1929, they began losing their appeal.
If rabbits turn your head, find yourself an American Sable. The handsome American Sable rabbit first came along in the 20th century, when breeders emphasized breeding Chinchilla colored rabbits. This rabbit breed is an off-shoot from the breeding of purebred Chinchilla rabbit. The American Sable is a great companion for you and your family, and you can also use its high-powered free manure to enrich your vegetable garden’s soil. But before you settle for this breed, it is vital to understand that these animals require a commitment. So, choosing it and hoping for the best is not enough. Instead, it would help if you had deeper insights into its rich history, characteristics, and personality to decide about adopting it.
American Sable Rabbit Characteristics
The American Sable rabbit has commercial body type and is suitable for meat production. They are medium in size and slightly smaller than some other commercial rabbit breeds, such as the Satin or Californian The main color of these rabbits is sepia brown with darker sepia brown over the back, feet, face, ears and tail. Their medium sized body is well rounded with good muscle cover. The breed has graduated coloring with a sepia brown over the flanks that darkens on the face, ears, feet, back and tail. It has dark eyes which also have a deep ruby red coloring. The hair of these rabbits is soft and fine. But the hair is quite dense and blows over quite a long period.Their head is round and the ears are held upright. Average body weight of the bucks is about 3.1-4 kg and does about 3.6-4.5 kg
Uses/benefits
This rabbit is a meat rabbit breed. They have good body size and very suitable for commercial meat production. With proper care these small animals make excellent and adorable pets. American Sable rabbit is a placid and friendly breed and make excellent pets. They have docile temperament and are easily handled. They usually spend the majority of the day sleeping, and are most active at sunrise and sunset. They are social beings and enjoy the company of other rabbits. They also love human companionship and enjoy attention from their owners. They will be very happy and keep playing if you give them some noisy cat toys to play
Specification
| Species Name: | Oryctolagus Cuniculus Domesticus |
| Family: | Leporidae |
| Care Level: | Intermediate, requires attention |
| Temperature: | Prefers a temperate climate |
| Temperament: | Gentle, docile, sweet, playful |
| Color Form: | Slightly faded Sable, bright Siamese sable |
| Lifespan: | 5-8 years |
| Size: | Medium, 5-8 lbs. |
| Diet: | Hay, pellets, fresh veggies, plenty of water |
| Minimum Tank Size: | 21 by 36 inches for breeds less than 8 lbs, 30 to 36 inches for large rabbits |
| Tank Set-Up: | Outdoors or Indoors |
| Compatibility: | American Chinchilla and Silver Marten Rabbits |
American Sable Rabbit Price
$75-$150