How are domestic rabbits used for meat and fur?

Domestic rabbits are raised for both meat and skins, which are utilized as pelts and for the production of felt.1

Meat

Rabbit meat is valued in many cultures for its delicate flavor and serves as an important source of protein.1

Fur and Fiber

The use of rabbit fur and fiber is categorized by the type of rabbit:

• Angora Rabbits: These are primarily raised for their silky, delicate white fiber, which is prized for its softness, fineness, and luster. The fiber is typically harvested four times a year through shearing, clipping, or plucking and is used in high-quality knitted goods, woven fabrics, and yarns.2
• Common Rabbits: The coarser fur from these rabbits is a significant source of felt. Additionally, their pelts are used in the fur industry, where the fur is often plucked, trimmed, and dyed to simulate more expensive furs, such as chinchilla or seal.2

It is important to recognize that the treatment of animals in the fur industry is a subject of significant ethical debate, with various animal-rights organizations advocating against the use of fur for fashion.3