The Cottontail rabbit is not actually a domestic rabbit breed but a group of wild rabbits found across North and South America. They are named for their distinctive short, fluffy white tails that resemble cotton balls. While often admired for their appearance, cottontails are not suitable as pets and are very different from domestic rabbit breeds like the Flemish Giant or Angora.
Quick Facts About Cottontail Rabbits
- Scientific name: Sylvilagus (a genus of wild rabbits)
- Common species: Eastern Cottontail (Sylvilagus floridanus) is the most widespread
- Habitat: Fields, meadows, brush, and suburban areas across the Americas
- Lifespan in the wild: 2–3 years on average (short due to predators)
- Size: 2–4 pounds, medium-sized rabbit
- Temperament: Skittish, shy, and not domesticated
Appearance
- Medium-sized body with brownish-gray fur
- Large upright ears for detecting predators
- Distinctive short, white “cotton ball” tail
- Big eyes adapted for good vision at night
Behavior & Lifestyle
- Wild Nature: Cottontails are not domesticated and cannot be tamed like pet rabbits.
- Diet: Herbivores; eat grasses, herbs, clover, bark, and garden plants.
- Activity: Most active at dawn and dusk (crepuscular).
- Burrows: Unlike European rabbits, many cottontail species nest above ground in dense vegetation instead of digging extensive warrens.
Housing & Pet Considerations
Unlike domestic rabbits, cottontails are wild animals and should not be kept as pets. In many regions, it is illegal to capture and house a cottontail rabbit. They are highly stressed in captivity and rarely adapt to domestic life.
If you want a rabbit as a companion, choose a domestic breed like the Flemish Giant, Holland Lop, or Angora instead.
Diet Requirements
In the wild, cottontails eat:
- Fresh grasses and herbs
- Leaves and vegetables
- Bark, twigs, and buds in winter
Health & Survival
- Predators: Hawks, owls, foxes, coyotes, and domestic pets are common threats.
- Lifespan: Short due to natural predation—usually 2–3 years.
- Reproduction: Very prolific; females can produce several litters per year, with 3–8 kits per litter.
Pros & Cons
Pros (in the wild):
- Important part of the ecosystem as prey species
- Help maintain plant growth balance
- Adorable to observe in nature
Cons (as pets):
- Not domesticated, easily stressed
- Illegal to keep in many areas
- Short lifespan in captivity due to stress
Conclusion
The Cottontail rabbit is a beautiful wild species, but it is not suitable as a pet. If you’re interested in keeping a rabbit as a companion, consider domestic breeds instead, which are bred for gentleness, longer lifespans, and compatibility with human care. For pet rabbits, always provide proper housing, a healthy diet, and enrichment like toys and playtime. To ensure your pet rabbit’s home is big enough, use the free
Rabbit Cage Size Calculator.