English LopOldest lop breed, extreme ear length
The most dramatic ears in the rabbit world — and the most maintenance-intensive
Extremely long ears (24+ inches) create chronic ear problems; large body adds GI and joint risk
"English Lop owners become expert ear care technicians. Those ears trail on the floor. They need daily inspection, cleaning, and protection."
The enrollment timing rule for English Lops:
Enroll your English Lop before the first vet visit. Any condition documented before your policy start date is permanently excluded. For this breed, that means enrolling before any dental work, GI episode, or ear treatment is recorded.
Health Conditions & Coverage
Ear Trauma and Infections
English Lop ears can reach 24+ inches — they trail on the ground and get stepped on, bitten by cage mates, and caught in enclosures. Ear injuries are common and painful. The restricted ear canal also makes chronic bacterial and yeast infections nearly universal in the breed.
NYC cost estimate
$300–$800 per infection episode; trauma treatment $400–$1,200
Insurance coverage
Covered as illness/injury.
GI Stasis
Large lop breed GI stasis risk is elevated compared to medium breeds. Pain from ear issues frequently triggers stasis.
NYC cost estimate
$1,000–$2,500 with hospitalization in NYC
Insurance coverage
Covered as illness if not pre-existing.
Sore Hocks
At 9–11 lbs with moderate foot padding, English Lops develop hock problems on inadequate flooring.
NYC cost estimate
$200–$600 per episode
Insurance coverage
Covered as illness/injury.
Dental Disease
The lop skull creates moderate dental risk — not as severe as dwarf breeds but more than upright-eared breeds.
NYC cost estimate
$300–$600 for trim; $1,200–$2,500 for abscess surgery
Insurance coverage
Covered as illness if not pre-existing.
The Two Carriers That Cover English Lops
Nationwide
$25–$45/month (NYC) · $7,500 annual limit · 14-day waiting periods
MetLife
Verify NYC rate on call · $10,000 annual limit · 0-day accident waiting