The
Angora rabbit is a variety of
domestic rabbit bred for its long, soft
wool. The Angora is one of the oldest types of domestic rabbit, originating in
Ankara (historically known as Angora), present day
Turkey, along with the
Angora cat and
Angora goat. The rabbits were popular pets with
French royalty in the mid-18th century, and spread to other parts of
Europe by the end of the century. They first appeared in the
United States in the early 20th century. They are bred largely for their long
Angora wool, which may be removed by
shearing, combing, or
plucking. There are many individual breeds of Angora rabbits, four of which are recognized by
American Rabbit Breeders' Association (ARBA); they are English, French, Giant, and Satin. Other breeds include German, Chinese, Swiss, Finnish, Korean, and St. Lucian.