Are Rabbits Hypoallergenic?

For most prospective parents, rabbits are a hypoallergenic pet choice. Their low shedding and dander make them less likely to cause allergic reactions. With some care, rabbits can be an ideal pet, even for allergy sufferers. 

Saying that, if you are very sensitive to the fur and dander of other animals, there is a chance that these cute critters can still trigger your reactions. While the chances of having a reaction are substantially lower, it can still happen, so don’t rush to your nearest store to pick up the first bunny you see before you understand what could be making you sensitive.  

Fur is a common trigger for allergic reactions and animals with longer coats are often the culprits for triggering them. Just like dogs, not every rabbit sheds the same amount of fur and they are considered a low shedding species in general. Even if you are sensitive to dog fur, there is a good chance that rabbit fur will not cause the same reaction. Dander production is also reduced in these little guys meaning they shed fewer dead skin cells than other pets. You can also be allergic to animal saliva and urine, but instances of these in rabbits are almost unheard of. 

Rabbits are not often considered pets that people are commonly allergic to and for those who are, reactions are often very mild because of the low shedding quality of their coat and skin. The best way to find out if you’re allergic to rabbits is to spend time with them and see if you have any symptoms after. If you are allergic to dogs or cats, it doesn’t automatically mean that you will be allergic to rabbits as well.  

Trial interactions are going to be your best gauge of how you react to being around any animal. No pet is 100% hypoallergenic, not even dogs that are bred specifically to be. There is always going to be a small amount of skin and coat shed. Even if you had a hairless pet to avoid the fur, they’ll still naturally shed dead skin. It’s usually only individuals with severe allergies who might show reactions to rabbits, but it’s still worth noting that no pet is completely hypoallergenic.  

Having a mild reaction to one bunny doesn’t put you out of the running to have your very own. You may have to just be mindful of what breed you buy. Breeds with long, silky coats can often be the main culprits for allergic reactions. You can look into breeds with shorter and thicker coats which are going to be less likely to cause a flare up to an allergy.  

The most hypoallergenic rabbits include the rex breed, both standard and the mini rex. They have short, thick fur that feels like velvet to the touch. Havana rabbits are also exceptionally low shedding. They have a coat that feels similar to most other short coated breeds, but it’s a little more silky, and they are known for being very low maintenance when it comes to grooming. American sable rabbits are another low maintenance breed with coats that look like you might be bringing home a siamese cat rather than a bunny! They are another breed with short, dense coats that are less likely to cause an allergic reaction. 

If you are mildly allergic to rabbits, you don’t have to dash all hopes of being a pet parent. There are numerous ways you can keep your furry friend as allergen free through good housekeeping. Regular maintenance of their living space and their coat will help reduce the chance of a reaction. 

Advise for limited shedding when it comes to canine companions includes regular bathing. It’s not recommended or even necessary to give your bunny buddy regular baths. The shock of the water and weighing down their coat will have a detrimental effect on their wellbeing, but that doesn’t mean you can’t groom them. Rabbits will often enjoy a grooming session, so you can use regular grooming as an excuse to bond as well as to prevent any shedding. Most rabbits will moult twice a year, so it’s especially important in spring and autumn when they’re likely losing a little more fur.

By brushing out their dead coat with a grooming kit like the Rosewood Options Mini Grooming Set, you can dispose of the fur instead of allowing it to naturally shed around the house or on your clothes. Regular grooming can make the difference between having a minor reaction from your pet bunny to no reaction at all.  

Managing your rabbit’s environment is also a great way to reduce the presence of allergens. A good, absorbent bedding in their cage or hutch like Carefresh White Ultra Small Pet Bedding will drastically cut down on potential allergens. Regular cleaning of their home will also help. If your bunny is going to be an indoor pet, then regularly hoovering the house will pick up any hair your grooming sessions might have missed, and you can even restrict their access to some rooms. Keeping your bedroom a bunny free room will really lower the chances of stray fur getting into your sheets. Avoiding contact with the bed means you can sleep in a fur free environment and reduce contact time.  

Good management all around can really make the difference in being able to have a four-legged companion. You can find everything you need in store and online to help make your home a bunny paradise without the drawback of itchy skin and a runny nose!