Silver Fox
Also known as American Silver Fox
- Adult size
- About 4–5.5 kg
- Lifespan
- 5–10 years
- Origin
- United States (Ohio)
- Company
- Keep in a neutered pair or group
- Docile
- Gentle
- Good-natured
- Rare
About the Silver Fox
The Silver Fox is a large rabbit with a dense, silvered coat that stands upright when stroked backwards, rather than flowing back into place. It was developed in Ohio in the 1920s and became one of the earliest rabbit breeds created in the United States.
Bred as a dual-purpose meat and fur rabbit, it has become rare and is regarded as a heritage breed. Silver Foxes are generally calm, which makes them pleasant pets for owners with room for a big rabbit.
Temperament
Silver Foxes are often docile and gentle, with a reputation for good-natured behaviour. Many are tolerant of handling and enjoy attention. Like any large rabbit, they appreciate calm, confident handling and plenty of time on the ground.
Housing
Their size calls for a large enclosure, a rabbit-proofed room or a secure outdoor run with a roomy shelter. Soft, non-slip flooring protects their feet and joints. Provide shade and ventilation in summer, as their dense coat can make them prone to overheating.
Diet
Unlimited hay forms the core of the diet, along with a daily variety of leafy greens. Pellets should be measured according to weight, as overfeeding leads to obesity. Always provide fresh water in a heavy bowl or large bottle.
Exercise & enrichment
Silver Foxes enjoy room to stretch and explore, large tunnels and foraging toys. Gentle interaction and grooming time can strengthen your bond. Use full-body support when lifting, or train them to enter a carrier.
Grooming
Their dense coat needs brushing weekly and more often during moults, ideally in the direction of hair growth. Check nails, feet and teeth regularly, and inspect the rear end in warm weather.
Health
Silver Foxes are not known for many breed-specific problems. Their size makes sore hocks and obesity concerns, and like all rabbits they can suffer dental disease and gut stasis. Neutering and vaccination against myxomatosis and RHD where available are advised.
Prone to
- Sore hocks
- Obesity
- Dental disease
- Gastrointestinal stasis
Call a vet if you notice
- Not eating or no droppingsEmergency
- Heavy breathing or collapse in hot weatherEmergency
- Reddened or ulcerated hocks
- Swelling around the jaw
- Unexplained weight loss
A vet with experience of exotic pets is best placed to help. Find one before you need them.
Common questions
Why does Silver Fox rabbit fur stand up?
The coat is unusually dense, so when stroked from tail to head, the fur stays standing until it is smoothed back. This is a key breed trait.
Is the Silver Fox rabbit rare?
Yes, it is considered a rare heritage breed. Breed conservation groups have worked to raise its numbers.
Are Silver Fox rabbits good pets?
Their gentle nature can make them lovely companions. Owners need space and budget for a large rabbit.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.