6. Coat Types
The different rabbit breeds have various fur structures. Fur structures are defined by several characteristics. In order to understand these you must understand some commonly used terms.

TERMS FOR DESCRIBING A COAT'S BUILD OR QUALITY

Density: The total number of fur fibers per area of skin at a location on the body. This is determined by the number of fur follicles per area and the number of fur fibers from each follicle.

Texture: The "feel" of the fur/wool and/or the reaction of the coat when stroked from the tail toward the head.

Finish: A coat with fully developed guard hairs, under fur and that is in good condition.

Molt: The act of losing fur from the pelt. This is a normal process that occurs periodically throughout the rabbit’s life. This is controlled by genetics, health, nutrition and environmental factors.

Broken coat: Exposure of the under coat due to the loss of guard hairs or the guard hairs being broken off at mid shaft. Will interfere with the uniformity of the texture over the body.

Guard hairs: The larger diameter and the longer fibers that protrude above the undercoat. Originates from the fur follicle; usually in lesser numbers than undercoat fibers.

Undercoat: The shorter, more abundant and fibers of smaller diameter. May originate from the same fur follicle as guard hair.

Fly back: A coat that lies smooth over the body and when stroked from tail towards the head returns to the original position very rapidly. Length of coat, diameter of guard hair, density and condition all will affect this character.

Roll back: A coat that lies smooth over the body -- and when stroked from tail towards head returns to its original position gradually.

Stand-up coat: A coat that lies smooth over the body and when stroked from tail towards the head, the fibers remain in an upright position.

Up-right or perpendicular coat: The fur stands at right angles, or straight up and down, to the skin. The guard hairs are just slightly longer than under fibers. This gives a very plush appearance to the coat.

 

Now that you know some of the common terms, use the links below to find out about different rabbit coat types.