What grooming practice is essential prior to showing a rabbit?

Brushing the coat is essential prior to showing a rabbit because it helps to remove loose fur, dirt, and debris, ensuring that the rabbit looks clean and well-groomed. A well-brushed coat can enhance the rabbit's appearance, making its fur shine and showcasing its breed characteristics effectively. This grooming practice is crucial as judges often assess the overall condition and cleanliness of the rabbit, and a well-maintained coat can contribute positively to the rabbit's presentation at a show.

While trimming the nails is an important grooming practice for the overall health and safety of the rabbit, it typically does not have the same immediate impact on appearance as brushing the coat. Bathing can also be risky for rabbits, as they are not naturally inclined to water and it can strip their coat of natural oils, potentially causing skin issues. Feeding special diets may help with the rabbit’s health and coat condition over time, but it does not have the direct visual impact that grooming and brushing provide just before a show.