The European or Old World rabbit (Oryctolagus cuniculus) is the only genus of domestic rabbits. Wild rabbits and hares include cottontail rabbits (Sylvilagus) and the “true” hares or jackrabbits (Lepus). Rabbits have been bred for fur, meat, wool, exhibition, and for use as laboratory animals.

Last full review/revision July 2011 by Diane McClure, DVM, PhD, DACLAM