Britannia Petite
Breed Description

The Britannia Petite rabbit is recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) under this singular official name, though the breed has an interesting nomenclature history. Originally developed in England, these rabbits were known as the Polish rabbit in their country of origin, creating confusion as the American Polish rabbit is an entirely different breed. When the breed was imported to the United States in the 1970s, it needed a distinct name to avoid confusion with the already-established American Polish.

The name "Britannia Petite" was chosen to reflect both the breed's British heritage (Britannia being the Latin name for Great Britain) and its diminutive size (petite being French for small). This naming convention successfully distinguished the breed while honoring its origins. In the United Kingdom and Europe, these rabbits are still referred to simply as Polish rabbits, which can cause confusion for international enthusiasts and breeders.

The breed is sometimes informally called the "British Polish" by exhibitors familiar with its history, though this is not an official designation. Show enthusiasts may also refer to them simply as "Petites" in casual conversation, though the full breed name should be used in official contexts and show catalogs. The Britannia Petite has no regional naming variations within the United States, where it maintains consistent recognition under its official ARBA designation. This clear nomenclature helps maintain breed standards and prevents the historical confusion that originally necessitated the name change when the breed crossed the Atlantic.

The Britannia Petite is one of the smallest rabbit breeds recognized by ARBA, with a maximum weight of just 2.5 pounds and a minimum of 2 pounds at maturity. This tiny rabbit possesses a distinctive full-arch body type, meaning the arch of the body begins at the base of the neck and continues in a smooth curve over the shoulders, midsection, hips, and down to the tail. When posed for showing, the Britannia Petite stands on its toes with its body arched high off the table, creating an elegant, alert silhouette that sets it apart from other small breeds.

The head is small and wedge-shaped, carried erect and proudly. The eyes are large, bold, and full of expression, giving the breed its characteristic alert appearance. The ears are fine-textured, well-furred, and carried upright, ideally no longer than 2.5 inches. The ears should touch each other along their entire length when viewed from the front, creating the breed's distinctive narrow, streamlined head appearance. The body is fine-boned with a slender, racy build that emphasizes the breed's athletic nature.

The coat is short, fine-textured, and flyback in type, meaning it returns to its original position when stroked backward. The fur should be soft and silky with a high sheen. Recognized colors include Ruby-Eyed White (REW), Black, Chestnut Agouti, Sable Marten, and Black Otter, though the REW variety is particularly popular in show circles. The breed exhibits minimal sexual dimorphism, with both bucks and does maintaining the same compact, fine-boned structure. Does do not develop dewlaps, maintaining the breed's sleek profile throughout their lives.

The Britannia Petite's most striking feature is its temperament reflected in physical bearing—these rabbits are constantly alert, poised, and ready to spring into action. Their full-arch posture and fine bone structure create an impression of perpetual motion even when still. This breed epitomizes elegance and refinement in a miniature package, combining delicate beauty with athletic prowess.

The Britannia Petite's history begins in England during the Victorian era, where it was developed as a smaller version of the wild European rabbit. English breeders sought to create the smallest possible domestic rabbit while maintaining health and vigor. These early rabbits, known as Polish rabbits in England (despite having no connection to Poland), became popular in the late 1800s among Victorian-era fanciers who prized miniature livestock breeds. The name "Polish" likely derived from the breed's sleek, polished appearance rather than any geographic connection.

These tiny rabbits were refined over decades in England, with breeders selecting for increasingly smaller size, the distinctive full-arch body type, and bold, alert temperaments. The breed became a staple of British rabbit shows, valued for its elegant appearance and sprightly personality. English fanciers developed strict breed standards emphasizing the arched profile, tiny size, and refined features that characterize the breed today.

In the 1970s, several breeders imported the English Polish rabbit to the United States. However, this created immediate confusion because America already had an established breed called the Polish rabbit—a completely different breed with compact body type and different characteristics. The British imports were significantly different from the American Polish, possessing the full-arch body type and more energetic temperament. To avoid confusion and establish the breed's unique identity, American breeders chose the name "Britannia Petite," clearly distinguishing it from the American Polish while honoring its British origins.

The breed was officially recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association (ARBA) in 1977, though acceptance came with some controversy due to concerns about the breed's highly strung temperament and the challenges of raising such a small, delicate rabbit. Despite these concerns, dedicated breeders established the breed in American show circuits, particularly on the West Coast where the first imports had arrived. The Britannia Petite Rabbit Club formed to promote the breed and maintain high breeding standards.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, American breeders refined the Britannia Petite, occasionally importing fresh bloodlines from England to maintain genetic diversity and improve type. Color varieties expanded beyond the original Ruby-Eyed White, with Black, Agouti, and broken patterns gaining recognition. However, the breed has remained relatively rare compared to other small breeds, partly due to its challenging temperament and the skill required to breed such tiny rabbits successfully.

Today, the Britannia Petite remains a specialty show breed appreciated by experienced exhibitors who value its unique characteristics and the challenge of perfecting its distinctive type. While never achieving the widespread popularity of breeds like the Netherland Dwarf or Holland Lop, the Britannia Petite maintains a devoted following among fanciers who appreciate its elegance, athleticism, and the breed's fascinating Anglo-American history.

Caring for a Britannia Petite requires understanding and accommodating their unique needs, particularly their high energy levels and nervous temperament. Housing must prioritize both security and space for their extensive exercise requirements. Indoor housing is strongly recommended for this delicate breed, protecting them from temperature extremes, predators, and environmental stresses while allowing closer monitoring of their health and behavior. A cage or enclosure should serve as home base rather than confinement, with minimum dimensions of 24 inches by 36 inches, though larger is always better for these active rabbits.

The cage should have a solid floor rather than wire, as their small feet are particularly susceptible to sore hocks from wire mesh. Provide soft bedding like fleece, paper-based bedding, or hay over the floor. Multiple levels or platforms allow them to exercise their jumping abilities safely within their enclosure. However, the cage is merely a sleeping and eating area—Britannia Petites require extensive daily exercise time outside their enclosure.

Exercise needs cannot be overstated for this breed. They require a minimum of 4-6 hours of supervised exercise daily in a rabbit-proofed area. A dedicated rabbit room or large exercise pen (at least 4x4 feet, preferably larger) allows them to run, jump, and express natural behaviors. Some owners allow supervised free-roam time in rabbit-proofed rooms. Bunny-proofing is crucial: cover or remove electrical cords, block access to toxic plants, secure unstable furniture that could tip, and eliminate small spaces where tiny rabbits might become stuck.

Litter training is typically successful with Britannia Petites, as they're naturally clean and intelligent. Place a litter box in their preferred corner (rabbits usually choose one spot naturally), using paper-based or aspen litter—never clay or clumping litter which is dangerous if ingested. Provide hay in or near the litter box, as rabbits naturally eliminate while eating. Clean the box daily and refresh litter completely twice weekly to maintain hygiene and encourage continued use.

Enrichment is essential for these intelligent, active rabbits. Provide a variety of toys: chewing toys (untreated wood blocks, willow balls), tossing toys (hard plastic baby keys, small balls), and foraging toys (treat balls, puzzle feeders). Rotate toys regularly to maintain interest. Tunnels, boxes with entrance holes, and platforms for jumping provide environmental enrichment that satisfies their athletic nature. Many Britannia Petites enjoy playing with cat toys designed for active play.

Social needs vary with individual personality. Some Britannia Petites thrive as solo rabbits receiving plenty of human interaction and enrichment. Others benefit from bonding with a compatible rabbit companion—preferably one of similar size and temperament. Bonding should be done carefully and gradually, as their intensity can cause conflicts. Supervise initial interactions closely and be prepared to separate them if aggression occurs. A rabbit-savvy veterinarian or experienced rabbit behaviorist can provide guidance on bonding procedures.

Temperature considerations are important for this delicate breed. Ideal temperatures range from 60-70°F (15-21°C). They're particularly sensitive to heat and can suffer heatstroke above 80°F (27°C). Provide cooling options during warm weather: ceramic tiles for lying on, frozen water bottles wrapped in towels, and fans for air circulation (not directed at the rabbit). Cold tolerance is better but avoid temperatures below 50°F (10°C) and provide additional hay for nest building during cooler periods.

Daily care routines should include fresh water (changed daily), feeding measured pellets and fresh vegetables, checking litter box conditions, observing behavior for any health concerns, and providing supervised exercise time. Weekly tasks include thorough cage cleaning, weight monitoring, nail checking, and coat inspection during brief grooming sessions. Monthly tasks include nail trimming and more thorough health checks examining teeth, eyes, ears, and feet. Seasonal considerations include increased grooming during spring and fall molts and temperature management during summer and winter extremes.

With proper housing, abundant exercise opportunities, appropriate enrichment, and attentive daily care, Britannia Petites thrive as healthy, active companions who showcase the remarkable athleticism and vitality that make this breed so distinctive among domestic rabbits.

Proper nutrition is fundamental to Britannia Petite health and longevity, with dietary requirements similar to other rabbit breeds but with some considerations for their small size and high energy levels. The cornerstone of any rabbit's diet must be unlimited high-quality grass hay, available at all times. Timothy hay is the gold standard for adult Britannia Petites, providing essential fiber for digestive health, necessary wear for continuously growing teeth, and low-calorie bulk that prevents obesity. Orchard grass hay offers a slightly softer alternative that some rabbits prefer, while meadow hay provides variety. Avoid alfalfa hay for adults as it's too high in calcium and calories, though it's appropriate for growing kits under six months.

The importance of hay cannot be overstated—it should comprise 80-85% of a Britannia Petite's diet. The fiber in hay is essential for maintaining healthy gut motility and preventing potentially fatal gastrointestinal stasis. The chewing action required to eat hay naturally wears down teeth, preventing malocclusion and dental disease. Provide fresh hay daily, removing soiled hay and ensuring the rack or feeding area stays clean and appealing. Many rabbits are picky about hay quality, so purchase from reputable suppliers and store hay properly to maintain freshness.

High-quality rabbit pellets supplement the hay-based diet. Adult Britannia Petites should receive approximately 1/8 cup (about 1 ounce or 28 grams) of pellets daily, adjusted based on individual metabolism and body condition. Choose plain timothy-based pellets without added treats, seeds, or colorful bits that provide empty calories and unbalanced nutrition. Pellets should contain 18-20% protein and 18-20% fiber, with minimal fat content. Feed pellets once or twice daily rather than free-feeding, as portion control prevents obesity—a significant concern even in active breeds.

Fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins, minerals, and hydration while adding variety and enrichment to the diet. Adult Britannia Petites should receive approximately 1-2 cups of fresh vegetables daily, introduced gradually to avoid digestive upset. Leafy greens should form the majority: romaine lettuce (not iceberg), red or green leaf lettuce, cilantro, parsley, arugula, dandelion greens, carrot tops, and herbs like basil and mint. Rotate greens regularly, offering 3-4 different types daily to ensure nutritional variety. Vegetables like bell peppers, cucumber, and small amounts of carrot add diversity but should be secondary to leafy greens.

Fruits should be offered sparingly as occasional treats, no more than 1-2 teaspoons daily, 2-3 times weekly. Appropriate fruits include apple (seedless), banana, blueberries, strawberries, and melon. While rabbits often love fruit's sweetness, the high sugar content can cause digestive issues and obesity if overfed. Think of fruit as you would candy—a rare, special treat rather than a dietary staple.

Certain foods are toxic to rabbits and must be completely avoided. Never feed chocolate, caffeine, alcohol, onions, garlic, leeks, chives, raw beans, rhubarb, avocado, or iceberg lettuce. Avoid processed human foods, bread, pasta, crackers, and anything high in starch or sugar. Despite popular misconceptions, avoid commercial rabbit treats containing yogurt drops, seed mixes, or honey sticks—these are unhealthy and unnecessary. Fresh herbs or small pieces of vegetables make far better training treats.

Fresh, clean water must be available at all times, changed daily. Use either a heavy ceramic crock that won't tip (cleaned daily) or a hanging water bottle with metal sipper tube (checked daily for clogs). Some rabbits prefer one method over another, so observe your Britannia Petite's preference. Rabbits can consume surprising amounts of water, especially during hot weather or when eating primarily hay and pellets. Monitor water consumption—significant increases or decreases may indicate health issues requiring veterinary attention.

Feeding schedules vary by age. Young Britannia Petites (under 6 months) receive alfalfa hay for growth, unlimited pellets to support development, and gradually introduced vegetables starting around 12 weeks with small amounts of mild greens. As they approach adulthood (6-8 months), transition gradually from alfalfa to timothy hay while reducing pellet portions to adult amounts. Senior rabbits (over 5-6 years) may need dietary adjustments based on individual health, activity levels, and any age-related conditions.

Obesity prevention is crucial even in active Britannia Petites. Monitor body condition weekly by running hands along the ribs—you should feel individual ribs beneath a thin layer of flesh without prominent protrusion or inability to feel ribs through fat. Adjust pellet portions and limit treats if weight gain occurs. Conversely, unexplained weight loss requires veterinary attention as it often indicates illness. The combination of unlimited hay, portion-controlled pellets, appropriate vegetables, and minimal treats maintains optimal body condition.

Special dietary needs may arise with health conditions. Rabbits with chronic soft stools may need reduced pellets and vegetables while increasing hay. Those with urinary calcium issues might require lower-calcium vegetables and timothy-based pellets. Senior rabbits with dental problems may need softer hay and moistened pellets. Always consult a rabbit-savvy veterinarian before making significant dietary changes for health reasons. With proper nutrition emphasizing high-quality hay, appropriate pellet portions, fresh vegetables, and clean water, Britannia Petites receive the balanced diet essential for their health, energy, and longevity.

Britannia Petites are generally healthy rabbits when provided with proper care, though their small size and high-strung temperament create some unique health considerations. Like all rabbits, they are susceptible to gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis), a potentially fatal condition where the digestive system slows or stops, requiring immediate veterinary intervention. Their delicate bone structure makes them vulnerable to spinal and leg fractures if dropped or mishandled, requiring particular care during any handling. Dental disease is a concern, particularly malocclusion where teeth don't wear properly and can overgrow, causing pain and eating difficulties that require regular dental monitoring.\n\nPasteurellosis, commonly called snuffles, can affect Britannia Petites, causing respiratory symptoms including nasal discharge, sneezing, and breathing difficulties. E. cuniculi is a parasitic infection that can cause neurological symptoms, kidney disease, and other serious health issues, with some rabbits being asymptomatic carriers. Flystrike, while preventable, is a serious concern during warm weather when flies lay eggs in soiled fur, particularly dangerous for rabbits with mobility issues or those housed outdoors. Sore hocks (pododermatitis) can develop on their small feet if housed on wire flooring or rough surfaces, causing painful lesions that become infected without treatment.\n\nEar mites are relatively common in rabbits and cause intense itching, head shaking, and crusty discharge in the ears requiring veterinary treatment with appropriate antiparasitic medications. Myxomatosis, a fatal viral disease, poses a risk in areas where the disease is endemic, and vaccination is available and recommended in affected regions. Uterine cancer is a significant risk in unspayed female rabbits, with incidence rates increasing dramatically after age four, making spaying highly recommended for all does. Hairballs, while less problematic in rabbits than cats, can occur during heavy molting periods if rabbits aren't getting adequate fiber and grooming support.\n\nPreventive care is essential for maintaining Britannia Petite health. Regular veterinary examinations by a rabbit-savvy veterinarian, ideally annually or biannually, help catch potential problems early when they're most treatable. Proper diet consisting primarily of unlimited high-quality hay, appropriate pellets, and fresh vegetables supports both dental health and optimal digestive function throughout their lives. Spaying or neutering provides significant health benefits including preventing reproductive cancers, reducing stress-related behaviors, and typically extending lifespan while improving quality of life.\n\nDental monitoring should occur regularly at home, watching for signs of overgrown incisors, drooling, reduced appetite, or difficulty eating that might indicate dental problems requiring professional attention. Maintaining clean housing conditions with appropriate bedding and regular cleaning prevents many bacterial infections, respiratory issues, and parasitic infestations that thrive in dirty environments. Where applicable, vaccination against myxomatosis and viral hemorrhagic disease provides crucial protection in areas where these diseases are present. Regular grooming sessions, while minimal for this breed, provide opportunities to check for lumps, skin conditions, parasite infestations, and other health concerns while also bonding with your rabbit. Weight monitoring helps ensure your Britannia Petite maintains a healthy body condition, as obesity can cause serious health problems while weight loss may indicate underlying illness requiring veterinary attention.\n\nWith attentive care, appropriate diet, clean housing, and regular veterinary oversight, Britannia Petites typically live 6-10 years, with some individuals reaching 12 years in exceptional circumstances. Their quality of life remains high when their physical and behavioral needs are met, allowing these energetic, spirited rabbits to thrive as the dynamic, entertaining companions they were bred to be.

The Britannia Petite's coat is one of the breed's most attractive features—short, fine-textured, and lustrous with a flyback quality that returns to position when stroked backward. This sleek coat requires minimal grooming compared to long-haired breeds, making the Britannia Petite relatively low-maintenance in this regard despite their other demanding care requirements. The fine, silky texture should have high sheen, giving the rabbit a polished, refined appearance that complements their elegant body type.

Recognized color varieties by ARBA include Ruby-Eyed White (REW), which features pure white fur throughout with distinctive pinkish-red eyes resulting from lack of pigment—this variety is particularly popular in show circles for its striking appearance. Black variety displays deep, dense black coloring extending to the skin with matching dark eyes and ears. Chestnut Agouti features the wild rabbit coloring with rich reddish-brown surface color, dark slate blue undercolor, and distinctive ticking that creates depth and richness. The Sable Marten variety shows dark sepia-toned body color with silver-white markings around eyes, nose, chin, belly, and feet, creating elegant contrast. Black Otter combines rich black body color with tan markings in the same pattern as Marten varieties, offering warm contrast against the dark base.

While these are the officially recognized varieties, breeders occasionally produce other colors including Blue, Chocolate, and various broken patterns (spotted or patched with white). However, these non-standard colors cannot be shown in ARBA sanctioned shows in the Britannia Petite breed, though they make equally wonderful pets. Each color variety should display the breed's characteristic fine, dense coat regardless of coloring.

Grooming needs are minimal but still important. Weekly brushing with a soft bristle brush or grooming glove suffices for most of the year, maintaining coat shine and removing any loose hairs. During seasonal molts—typically spring and fall—increase brushing frequency to 2-3 times weekly to help remove shedding fur and prevent excessive hair ingestion. While rabbits don't develop hairballs like cats, ingested fur during grooming can contribute to digestive issues, making molt management important. Some individual Britannia Petites shed more heavily than others; adjust grooming frequency based on your rabbit's coat condition.

The flyback coat type means the fur naturally returns to position without requiring special grooming techniques or coat maintenance. Unlike Rex breeds with standing fur or Angora breeds requiring extensive grooming, the Britannia Petite's coat essentially maintains itself with minimal assistance. This natural ease of care makes the breed's grooming requirements accessible even to first-time rabbit groomers, though their nervous temperament during handling requires patience and gentleness.

Nail trimming represents the primary grooming need beyond basic brushing. Britannia Petites' nails grow continuously and require trimming every 4-6 weeks to prevent overgrowth, splitting, or discomfort when hopping. Use small animal nail clippers or cat nail clippers, carefully avoiding the quick (the pink blood vessel visible in light-colored nails). For rabbits with dark nails where the quick is invisible, trim conservatively, removing only the curved tip. If uncertain, consult a veterinarian or experienced rabbit groomer for demonstration. Many rabbits tolerate nail trimming better when gently wrapped in a towel for security.

Show grooming standards for exhibition require additional preparation. Before shows, bathe only specific areas if absolutely necessary (spot cleaning dirty feet or genital areas), as full baths stress rabbits and strip natural coat oils. Instead, use grooming powder specifically formulated for rabbits to clean and enhance coat texture. Brush thoroughly in the direction of hair growth to maximize shine. Check for stray white hairs in colored varieties or vice versa, as these detract from show quality. Ensure nails are neatly trimmed and feet are clean. The goal is enhancing the natural coat and body type rather than heavily manipulating the appearance.

With their naturally sleek coat, minimal grooming requirements, and weekly brushing sessions providing health-check opportunities, the Britannia Petite's coat care remains manageable even for busy owners, making this one aspect of the breed that truly is beginner-friendly despite their otherwise demanding nature.

The Britannia Petite is generally not recommended for families with young children due to the breed's nervous temperament, delicate bone structure, and dislike of being handled. These rabbits require experienced, gentle handling and can easily be injured by well-meaning but clumsy or overly enthusiastic young children who may not understand proper rabbit care. Their small size makes them tempting to pick up and cuddle, but Britannia Petites typically struggle when restrained, potentially injuring themselves or scratching handlers in their panic to escape.

For families determined to add a Britannia Petite despite having children, strict age guidelines and supervision protocols are essential. Children should be at least 12-14 years old, mature enough to understand and respect the rabbit's need for gentle, patient interaction. Even with older children, adult supervision during all interactions is mandatory. Children must learn that Britannia Petites are observe-and-interact pets rather than cuddly companions—watching their athletic displays, offering treats through cage bars, and providing enrichment toys offers rewarding interaction without stressful handling.

Teaching children proper rabbit interaction begins with education about rabbit body language and behavior. Children should recognize signs of stress (thumping, fleeing, aggressive posturing) and learn to back away immediately, giving the rabbit space. They should understand that rabbits are prey animals naturally fearful of quick movements and loud noises. Approaching slowly, speaking softly, and allowing the rabbit to come to them on its own terms builds trust gradually. Sitting on the floor during interaction makes children less threatening and prevents dangerous falls if the rabbit is picked up.

Handling techniques must be taught carefully and practiced extensively before children interact with the actual rabbit. Proper support of both hindquarters and chest prevents spinal injury—the most common and devastating injury to rabbits from improper handling. Many experts recommend that children not pick up Britannia Petites at all, instead interacting at floor level where the rabbit feels secure and injury risk is minimized. If handling is necessary, an adult should supervise closely, ready to intervene if the child's grip loosens or the rabbit struggles.

Regarding other household pets, Britannia Petites can coexist peacefully with dogs and cats, but this requires careful introduction, training, and constant supervision. Prey drive in dogs and cats varies dramatically by individual—some show no interest in rabbits while others view them as prey or toys. Never assume safety based on the other pet's breed or past behavior with other animals. Introductions should occur gradually, with the rabbit secure in their enclosure initially while pets observe from a distance. Reward calm, disinterested behavior from dogs and cats, never allowing stalking, pouncing, or excessive excitement around the rabbit.

Even with seemingly tolerant dogs and cats, never leave them unsupervised with a Britannia Petite. One moment of prey drive, playful roughness, or startlement can result in fatal injury to the small rabbit. The Britannia Petite's nervous temperament means constant vigilance of other pets causes significant stress even without direct threat. Ideally, exercise time for the rabbit should occur in a room separated from other pets, allowing the rabbit to relax and play without fear. Some households successfully manage multi-species environments, but this requires commitment to permanent supervision and strict safety protocols.

Bonding Britannia Petites with other rabbits requires careful consideration. Their intense personalities mean bonding must be done gradually using established bonding protocols. Opposite-sex pairs (both fixed) typically bond most successfully, though same-sex pairs can work with the right personalities. Avoid pairing Britannia Petites with significantly larger breeds due to size-mismatch injury risk. The best bonding candidates are rabbits of similar size and energy level who can match the Britannia Petite's intensity without overwhelming them. Consult rabbit bonding resources or work with an experienced rabbit behaviorist if undertaking this process.

Small pets like guinea pigs, hamsters, or birds should be housed completely separately from Britannia Petites. Despite both being small animals, rabbits can injure smaller pets through territorial aggression or accidental rough play. Their housing, exercise, and care needs differ substantially, making cohabitation inappropriate. Each species requires species-specific care and companionship for optimal welfare.

Ultimately, the Britannia Petite thrives best in quiet, adult-only households or with mature, well-supervised older children who understand and respect their unique needs. Their beauty, athleticism, and spirited personality offer abundant rewards for the right family willing to provide the specialized care, gentle handling, and appropriate environment this distinctive breed requires.