Are Rabbits Rodents? Why Not

One of the most common misunderstandings in the rabbit world is whether or not rabbits are rodents. 

They’ve got those big front teeth, a small head, and can scoot across an open field in a flash – does that mean rabbits are rodents?

No, rabbits are NOT rodents. That may be easy to say, but a bit more difficult to understand. 

For example: if rabbits aren’t rodents, what is the big difference between them and other well-known rodents that they resemble so strongly, like the guinea-pig or the hamster? 

Fortunately, we have been raising rabbits on our homestead for many years and know all about the specific characteristics and classification of the rabbit, so read on to learn more! 

Is A Rabbit Considered A Rodent

Bottom line: rabbits are not considered rodents. 

And there are a number of tell-tale characteristics that separate these two types of animals from each other, both physically and biologically. 

For starters, they are not scientifically classified the same: rabbits are actually known as lagomorphs! 

What Family Are Rabbits In

Rabbits are in the Leporidae family of the Lagomorpha order (for a refresh on how animals are classified check out this great taxonomic hierarchy source).

The Leporidae family contains about 70+ living species of rabbits and hares. 

Forget what’s distinct about a rabbit and a hare? Read our post on the difference between a rabbit and a hare for more info. 

It is worth noting that rabbits were once classified as rodents, but after more observation, it was determined (in the early 20th century) that the evolutionary and biological differences between the two animals were actually quite significant, and that rabbits and hares merited their own separate classification. 

Why Are Rabbits NOT Rodents

As stated, a rabbit is a lagomorph, not a rodent. 

Great, what does that even mean? 

Good question! Let’s go over those important physical and biological aspects that distinguish these two types of animals. 

Lagomorph Vs. Rodent

While rabbits and rodents do share some characteristics, such as perpetually growing teeth, the following examples distinguish the two animals quite well: 

LagomorphRodent
Long, extended earsShort, round ears
Strict herbivorous diet Omnivore diet 
Elongated back legsShort back legs
Lack of paw padPaw pads
Four upper incisor teeth Two upper incisor teeth
Short, hairy tailLong, hairless tail 

Note the difference in diet and number of upper incisors. These are actually quite significant as it calls for different digestive strategies, eating habits, and internal biology! 

For example: meat can kill a rabbit, while many rodents enjoy eating carnage. 

Common Rabbit Characteristics

In addition to the above physical and biological differences, rabbits also exhibit different behaviors than rodents. 

The common rabbit characteristic of timidness and extreme sensitivity hints at their evolutionary background as a heavily preyed on animal. 

On the other hand, rodents tend to be much more fearless and aggressive. This comes along with being omnivorous foragers and hunters! 

Are Rabbits Close To Rodents

Rabbits and rodents are distantly related animals because both are mammals, they both:  

  • Give birth to live young
  • Have a four chambered heart 
  • Feed their young milk
  • Have four limbs

Any other physical similarity rabbits and rodents share is more superficial than anthony! 

What Animals Are Rodents? 

The following rodents are commonly recognized animals:

  • Mice
  • Brown Rat
  • Guinea Pig
  • Capybara
  • Ground Squirrel 
  • Hamster
  • Porcupine
  • Black Rat
  • Vole
  • Muskrat
  • Chipmunks
  • Beaver

Final Thoughts On Are Rabbits Rodents

Whether you have a pet bunny or are raising them on a homestead like we are, you’ve got yourself a lagomorph, not a rodent.

And word to the wise: be aware that aggressive and hungry rodents can actually be dangerous to your rabbits!

Read our post on rats as rabbit predators to learn why rabbits sometimes attract unwanted rodents and how to best protect your bunny.

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