What is a blemish in rabbit judging?

A blemish in rabbit judging refers to any defect that detracts from the overall appearance of the rabbit. In the context of showmanship and judging, judges look for certain standards that define the ideal specimen of a breed, including physical characteristics, fur quality, and overall form. If a rabbit has a blemish—whether it be a physical irregularity, a miscoloration, or any noticeable flaw—it can impact the judge's assessment of that rabbit's conformance to breed standards and its visual appeal in the show ring.

Understanding this concept is crucial for rabbit exhibitors, as it directly affects their scores and rankings during a show. A blemish doesn't just diminish the aesthetic value; it can also potentially indicate underlying health issues or poor breeding practices. This differentiates blemishes from distinguishing marks of the breed, which are typically recognized traits that contribute positively to the animal's identification, not detract from it.