The Polish rabbit is not a dwarf breed of domestic rabbit since they lack the dwarf gene, most often bred by fanciers and commonly exhibited in rabbit shows. Despite its name, the Polish rabbit likely originated in England, not Poland. The breed known in the UK as Polish is the breed known in the US as Britannia Petite. The breed known in the US as Polish is unknown in the UK.
Appearance
Today, the Britannia Petite rabbit in the US is used as a fancy exhibition breed. Britannia Petite rabbits are a small arched breed, the smallest breed accepted by the ARBA. The accepted weight a 6-months-or-older Britannia Petite rabbit in the US is 2½ pounds. They are a high strung breed that is not suitable for a beginner handler. Until the 1950s, most Britannia Petite rabbits in the US were white with either red eyes or blue eyes. The ruby-eyed white is a true albino. The blue-eyed white has the Vienna breed's white gene and is not a true albino. Since the 1950s, colored Britania Petite varieties have been recognized by rabbit clubs.
Personality and care
The American Polish rabbit is generally calm and friendly, especially the bucks. Does can be territorial if not spayed. Rabbits can be easily trained to use a litter box and to accept a harness with leash when out of their cage. Rabbit-proofing a room where a rabbit is roaming freely is critical. Rabbits will chew on carpets, baseboard and especially electrical cords.
Feeding
Polish rabbits should be fed about 1/4 cups of pelleted feed every other day depending on the activity level of the rabbit. It is vital that rabbits have access to unlimited fresh hay to ensure good dental health, gastrointestinal health, urinary tract health, weight control and for environmental enrichment. Treats such as fruit and carrot should be fed sparingly; typically a portion no larger than the tip of the thumb. Carrots are high in sugar so best to avoid it. Fresh young dandelion leaves, parsley and spinach are nutritious choices for treats. Vegetables in the cabbage family and high-sugar foods such as corn should be avoided, as these can cause gastroenteritis. Seed should never be given to rabbits. The darker the lettuce the healthier, with iceberg lettuce having no nutritional value. A healthy rabbit should be well fleshed but not flabby. This is tested by running one's hand over the rabbits back. A firm layer of flesh over the ribs and spine together with the ribs and spine should be felt, indicating proper nutrition. A prominent spine indicates under nutrition and is corrected by increasing the feed. Inability to feel the spine indicates over nutrition and likewise, the amount of feed is decreased.
Health concerns
As with other rabbits, Polish rabbits do not do well in high temperatures, but can withstand low temperatures if they are kept dry and out of drafts. They are prone to hairball obstructions and matted coats if not cared for properly. Other health concerns include ear mites, Pasturella, respiratory disease, dental problems, urinary bladder stones and fractured backs. Be quick to notice any changes in diet or litter box habits and contact a rabbit veterinarian immediately. The average life span of a breeding Polish rabbit is 5 to 6 years and 8-10 with being spayed or neutered.
