Looking like a cross between a rabbit and a small deer, the Patagonian mara is a long-legged, gray-and-white rodent that bounds, stots, and lounges in sunny sprawls.
Temperament
Common health issues
- Dental issues
- Arthritis
- Nutritional deficiency
Care at a glance
- ExerciseHigh
Needs a wheel or safe floor time every day to burn energy.
- GroomingWeekly once-over
A weekly check-over plus regular enclosure cleaning.
- Living spaceRoomy enclosure
Needs a generous enclosure plus safe free-roam time.
- Owner experienceSome experience helps
A little know-how makes life smoother.
- Commitment10โ14 years
Plan for a long, loving relationship.
Health to watch: Dental issues ยท Arthritis ยท Nutritional deficiency
๐ Care guide
The Patagonian mara (Dolichotis patagonum) is a large cavy-relative from the arid steppes of Argentina, weighing 8-16 kilograms and living ten to fourteen years. Maras are monogamous and intensely social, so they should be kept in bonded pairs and never alone. They are gentle but naturally skittish, capable of explosive sprints and jumps when startled. They require a spacious, secure outdoor paddock with tall, dig-proof fencing, dry shelter, and a sunny basking area, plus space to run at speed. Feed a grass-and-hay-based diet with grasses, leafy greens, root vegetables, and a guinea-pig or herbivore pellet supplemented with vitamin C. Provide gnawing material to manage continuously growing teeth. Tame maras enjoy calm human company but resent restraint. As sizeable exotics they may require a licence or dangerous-wild-animal style permit in some regions, so confirm the rules and secure ample land before committing.
Frequently asked questions
How much activity does a Patagonian Mara need?
High. Needs a wheel or safe floor time every day to burn energy.
How much grooming does a Patagonian Mara need?
Weekly once-over. A weekly check-over plus regular enclosure cleaning.
How much space does a Patagonian Mara need?
Roomy enclosure. Needs a generous enclosure plus safe free-roam time.
Is a Patagonian Mara a good fit for first-time owners?
Some experience helps. A little know-how makes life smoother.
How long do Patagonian Mara live?
10โ14 years. Plan for a long, loving relationship.
What health issues affect the Patagonian Mara?
Keep an eye out for Dental issues, Arthritis, Nutritional deficiency. These are worth raising with your vet, along with any screening they recommend.
Similar breeds
Patagonian Mara community
0 members
Be the first to join this community!
Community feed
Not sure this is the breed for you?
Answer 7 short questions and get ranked matches for your lifestyle.
Try the match quiz