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Condition pertains to the overall appearance and health of the animal. A rabbit in good condition will display health and vigor. It will be free from molt, stains, and disease. The body should be "firm" in flesh. Firm flesh will neither be doughy in feel (meaning the bunny is too fat), nor bony (meaning the bun lacks flesh). The bones of the hips, ribs, and spine should not be felt on a properly conditioned Holland. Good flesh is predominately hereditary, but feeding programs can have an effect on it's consistency through under or over feeding. Conditining is said to be an "art" that is learned through experience, time, and knowing your animals particular tendancy for flesh. Each breeder usually has their own formula for conditioning their bunnies. There are multitudes of supplements and vitamins available to enhance the quality of the show animals condition. The main thing to remember here is that an animal that is not genetically predispositioned to good fur and flesh is not going to be turned magically into a rabbit in full bloom by giving special feed or vitamins. The most important thing to do in conditioning your rabbits is to begin your breeding program with animals that exhibit a strong genetic tendancy for good coat and flesh with the least amount of supplements possible. There are some helpful articles about conditioning on the Holland Lop Rabbit Specialty Club web site. A link is listed below. You will have to use the "back" button on your internet web browser to return to this site. |
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