Stately Lionhead Rabbit ‘Mr. Patterson’ Seeks Dignified Home

Mr. Patterson may be cute, but the staff at the Animal Welfare League of Alexandria where he is currently awaiting say that prospective owners should make no mistake — he is a true gentleman.

“Mr. Patterson may be a bit leonine, but he’s actually just a lionhead rabbit (though he’s just as proud of his majestic mane as any big cat would be),” said Gina Hardter, a spokesperson for the AWLA. “This 2-year-old gentleman’s favorite spots are a well-filled hay bin or a snuggly enclosure with lots of blankets.”

Like most rabbits, Mr. Patterson is highly intelligent and enjoys puzzles or challenges to help stimulate his brain.

“Chew toys and places to dig will help you win Mr. Patterson’s heart,” Hardter said.

While all rabbits require some grooming, Hardter said Mr. Patterson’s intense mane requires some special preening.

“As anyone with a fantastic coiffure (or coif-fur) will tell you, you will need to dedicate some time to brushing Mr. Patterson,” Hardter said. “Make sure to find the right type of brush to keep him detangled, because lionheads far prefer brushing and the occasional spot-clean to a bath!”

Anyone interested in learning more about caring for a lionhead rabbit, or to meet Mr. Patterson for potential adoption, is encouraged to schedule an appointment with the AWLA.

How did Mr. Patterson spend his morning? Watching the @NASA launch! This little bun is out-of-this-world cute and can often be found nibbling on hay with his head in the stars. Is he the bunny best friend for you? pic.twitter.com/rUB98S1dIF

— AWLA Alexandria (@AlexAnimals) July 30, 2020