Bucks 5.5-7.5 lb, does 6-8 lb (Wikipedia); ARBA maximum 8 lb; PetGuide gives 6-8 lb.
short, soft normal-fur coat on a compact, medium body
A sturdy, medium-sized rabbit with broad hindquarters and a gently rising back line. Its soft, short coat is an even pinkish dove-grey, and its eyes are a matching soft tone.123
A quiet, friendly and gentle rabbit that likes to explore and enjoys a good petting session; many are happy to settle on a lap. Its easygoing nature makes it a pleasant family companion.21
Needs regular time out of its enclosure to explore indoor or outdoor spaces, with toys such as cardboard boxes and chews to keep it busy.24
Brush weekly to keep the coat soft, increasing to twice a week during its two moults each year.2
The RSPCA recommends a living area of at least 3 m x 2 m x 1 m high so a rabbit can hop, stretch, hide and play; a hutch or cage works only as a base alongside a large run or daily free-roam time. Use solid flooring with soft bedding, spot-clean daily and change bedding weekly. Being a medium-sized breed, it needs a fairly roomy base enclosure.42
About 70 percent quality grass hay such as timothy or orchard grass, plus fibre-rich leafy greens, vegetables, a measured amount of pellets, little sugary fruit, and fresh water at all times.24
Rabbits are a highly social species and the RSPCA advises they should not live alone; a compatible, neutered rabbit companion plus regular gentle time with people suits them best. Lilacs bond well with families and enjoy human attention.42
Lilac rabbits were produced in several places in the early 1900s: H. Onslow of Cambridge showed them in London in 1913, and Mabel Illingworth bred them from Blue Imperials and Havanas. In 1917 a larger strain was made in Gouda, Holland, and in 1922 Cambridge professor R.C. Punnett created the Cambridge Blue. Exports to the US began in 1922 and an American breed club was formed in 1944.12
One early strain was bred by Cambridge geneticist R.C. Punnett, of Punnett square fame, and was called the Cambridge Blue.1
The Dutch strain from Gouda was known as the Gouda or Gowenaar.1
ARBA classes it as a standard breed, meaning it is shown in a single colour.3
Lilac litters are fairly small, averaging four to six kits.1
How many Listed as 'Watch' by The Livestock Conservancy, a category defined as fewer than 2,000 estimated worldwide and fewer than 200 annual US registrations.51
A typical home-care rhythm for a Lilac 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 Lilac Rabbit needs unlimited fresh hay every day, plus a daily portion of leafy greens and a measured amount of pellets. Furry Diary's starting plan is to refill hay daily and follow the food label for pellet amounts, checking with your vet for exact portions.246 Pet Wiki plan
About 70% of the diet should be quality grass hay like timothy, plus fibre-rich leafy greens, a small amount of pellets, and very little fruit. Never give avocado, chocolate, onions, garlic, muesli mixes, or any human processed food, as these are dangerous.2467
No, rabbits should not be bathed as it causes stress and can lead to health issues. Instead, spot-clean any dirty areas with a damp cloth and keep their living space clean to prevent mess.24
Yes, brush your Lilac Rabbit weekly to keep its soft coat in good condition, and increase to twice a week during moulting seasons. Furry Diary's plan suggests daily brushing while moulting to remove loose fur.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 and safe wooden chews to help wear teeth down naturally, and consult a vet if you notice overgrowth.24 Pet Wiki plan
The RSPCA recommends a living area of at least 3m x 2m x 1m high for hopping and playing, plus daily free-roam time of at least four hours. Furry Diary's plan includes daily free-roam and a clean, roomy enclosure with soft bedding.42 Pet Wiki plan
Rabbits are highly social and should not live alone; a compatible, neutered rabbit companion is ideal. Lilacs bond well with families and enjoy gentle human time, but a bunny friend is best for their happiness.42
A Lilac Rabbit typically lives between 9 and 12 years with proper care. Providing a good diet, regular vet checkups, and a safe environment helps them reach their full lifespan.2
Yes, its quiet, friendly and gentle nature makes it a pleasant family companion. However, always supervise interactions with young children and teach them to handle the rabbit calmly and respectfully.21
Support the rabbit's hindquarters and chest securely, never lift by the ears or scruff. Many Lilacs enjoy lap time, but always let the rabbit feel safe and never force handling.24
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.
Havana Rabbit
Beveren