Rabbits have always been a part of our household.  Growing up, I usually had at least one pet rabbit.  During my adult, single years I kept house rabbits.  I tried to pass on an appreciation for rabbits as outstanding pets and companions to our children.  During our early suburban days, we kept several yard rabbits in our backyard garden.  Our daughter, Yvonne, began raising her own rabbits once we arrived in Oklahoma.  She started out focusing on raising beautiful, healthy Californians.  She made the decision in 2018 to focus entirely on raising quality Lionhead rabbits.  

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Yvonne with Californians from one of her first litters.

About Us

Yvonne is a registered member in good standing of the American Rabbit Breeders Association.  LeChat Noir Rabbitry is also registered with ARBA and the North American Lionhead Rabbit Club.

We are located in the foothills of the Ozarks just outside of Salina, Oklahoma, where Yvonne spends the time when she is not grooming rabbits reading, studying, and practicing archery.  Her favorite subjects are history and literature and very often you will see these interests come through in her choice of names for her pedigreed rabbits.

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The rabbitry begins.

My rabbit experience comes primarily from my original herd. In that herd, I had four breeding Californians -- two bucks and two does. I also happened to have a single Lionhead doe.  I sold off my breeding Californian herd, but that little Lionhead was what convinced me that I wanted to switch to Lionheads. I immediately fell in love with these  fluffy, proud creatures! - Yvonne Thomer, LeChat Noir Rabbitry

​About Lionheads.

The Lionhead was bred in Belgium, but was imported by American breeders throughout the 2000s. Some  of those breeders crossed the Lionhead with other small breeds, giving rise to the Lionhead rabbit that we know today. The Lionhead was only recognized by ARBA (American Rabbit Breeders Association) back in 2014.

Fur and attitude.

When I breed these rabbits, I look for two things in particular: fluff and personality. I want their manes especially to be fluffy, beautiful, and make them look both ridiculous and majestic at the same time. These furry guys are never lacking in personality; they can be friendly and playful. Maybe they will demand treats from you, maybe they will pose for the camera, or maybe they will come bounding up, happy to see you. Additionally, even if you aren't the kind of person to squeal when you see an adorable baby animal,  I guarantee you won't be able to help yourself when you see a Lionhead baby. - Yvonne Thomer, LeChat Noir Rabbitry

Yvonne's first Lionhead - her inspiration.

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Just for fun: Some of our rabbits over the years.

Meet our brood stock!  Now with updated pictures. More detailed pedigree information available upon request.

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The first litter of 2020 is here!