Meat rabbits are large in size. Breeds such as the New Zealand and the Californian are most frequently utilized for meat in commercial rabbitries. These rabbit breeds have efficient metabolisms and grow quickly; they are ready for slaughter by approximately eight to twelve weeks of age. Rabbit meat may be prepared in a variety of ways and to some it tastes like white meat chicken.
Fur rabbit breeds come in many sizes; some fur rabbits are also meat rabbits. The rex and mini-rex are examples of common fur rabbit breeds. These rabbits are bred to have particularly soft and thick fur that can be used to make fur coats or trim on clothing.
Some rabbits, such as the Angoras and Jersey woolies, produce wool in the same manner that a sheep does. They are sheared or "plucked" (gently pulling loose wool from the body) to harvest the wool; this use of the rabbit does not involve slaughtering the animal. The wool can then be spun into yarn and used to make a variety of products. Angora wool sweaters can be purchased in many clothing stores.
Properly-socialized rabbits can be rewarding pets. In the right home, rabbits can adjust quite well and can even be litter box trained. However, rabbits need a considerable amount of care and attention and should not be brought into the household without proper consideration.