BRC standard weight about 6 lb (2.72 kg).
short, dense, glossy, silky normal fur
A small, neat rabbit with a greyish-white silvered surface sitting over a deep slate-blue undercolour, giving a frosted silver look. It has bold brown eyes.1
The Argenté breeds are known for a good temperament and are regarded as excellent pets, combining an easygoing nature with a small, tidy build.1
The coat is short and lies close to the body. Rabbits keep themselves clean, so routine care is mostly regular hands-on checks of coat, nails and teeth.13
Needs a secure living area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m so it can hop, play, stretch, hide and exercise, with toys and foraging opportunities for enrichment.3
Hay should form the foundation of the diet, as constant chewing keeps the teeth worn down, with fresh leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets alongside. Carrots are best kept as an occasional treat.3
A social animal that should live with at least one other rabbit; a neutered male and female pair is often the easiest match.3
The Argenté rabbits are one of France's oldest groups of show breeds, prized for silvered coats over a coloured undercoat. Britain has kept several colour forms as separate breeds, and Argente Noir is one of the six recognised by the British Rabbit Council.1
Argenté kits are born a solid colour and only take on their silvered adult coat between about 6 weeks and 4 months old.1
The British Rabbit Council recognises six Argenté breeds, while the ARBA recognises three.1
The ideal Argenté body is small and neat, with well-developed hindquarters and a gently arched back.1
Despite its name, the Argente Noir looks silvery grey-white on top, with the dark colour hidden in its slate-blue undercoat.1
A typical home-care rhythm for an Argente Noir. 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
Feed unlimited hay every day, as it is the foundation of the diet. Offer a large handful of safe leafy greens daily and a measured amount of pellets (about 25g per kg of body weight, check the label). Treats like carrots should only be given occasionally.34 Pet Wiki plan
The diet should be mostly hay, with fresh leafy greens and a small portion of pellets. Dangerous foods include avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, raisins, and muesli mixes. Always provide fresh water and avoid any processed human food.345
No, rabbits keep themselves clean and do not need baths. Bathing can cause stress and health issues. If your rabbit gets dirty, consult a vet for safe cleaning methods.3
Yes, brushing once a week helps remove loose fur and keeps the coat glossy. During moulting, brush daily to prevent fur ingestion. This is part of routine care.1 Pet Wiki plan
Check teeth weekly and provide unlimited hay to wear them down naturally. Trim nails every six weeks or as needed. A vet can show you the proper technique for both.3 Pet Wiki plan
Provide a secure enclosure at least 3m by 2m by 1m for hopping and playing. Give at least four hours of supervised exercise outside the enclosure daily, with toys and hiding spots for enrichment.3 Pet Wiki plan
Argente Noirs are social and should live with at least one other rabbit. A neutered male and female pair is often the easiest and happiest match.3
Lifespan varies, but with good care rabbits often live 8 to 12 years. For specific information about your rabbit, ask your vet.
Yes, Argente Noirs have a good temperament and are easygoing, making them suitable for children with proper supervision. Always teach gentle handling and respect for the rabbit.1
Always support the rabbit's hindquarters and chest securely when lifting. Never pick up by the ears or scruff. Ask a vet or experienced breeder to show you the correct technique.
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? support@petwiki.app.
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.
Argente Bleu
Argente St Hubert
Champagne d'Argent
Argente Brun