Rabbit show

A rabbit show is a type of animal show where rabbits are exhibited. Most rabbit exhibitions in America are sanctioned by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA),^[1] which recognizes 52 breeds in its Standard of Perfection 2021–2025.^[2] Rabbit show jumping, also known as rabbit hopping or rabbit agility, is a performance sport developed in the 1970s based on horse jumping^[3] and is distinct from traditional rabbit shows.^[4] Rabbit shows are mainly oriented towards exhibitors, rather than spectators, and receive little publicity compared to rabbit show jumping. Exhibitors display rabbits at shows for prize money and other awards.^[5]

A rabbit show preparation area in Llantrisant Fawr, Monmouthshire, Wales

History

Rabbit shows are associated largely with the ARBA, originally founded in 1910 as the National Pet Stock Association,^[6] but various breeds have been raised for exhibition throughout the 19th century,^[7][8] starting in England with the formation of the first rabbit club in 1840.^[9]

Criteria

Rabbit shows involve the judging of rabbits based on several criteria, which are set based on a breed standard. Shows sanctioned by the ARBA are judged based on the Standard of Perfection. These criteria are specific to the breed of rabbit being shown, and shown rabbits in a breed are further divided into judging classes by their variety, age, and sex.^[5] In addition to any particular characteristics of a breed, shown rabbits are judged based on the following criteria:^[10]

• Rabbit handling
• Rabbit posing on show table
• Examination of rabbit
• Condition of rabbit, including that of:
  • Fitting
  • Flesh
  • Fur
  • General health

As part of the process, exhibitors themselves may be judged on their appearance and their own rabbit knowledge through a quiz.^[10]