What is the definition of a pelt?

The term "pelt" refers specifically to the hide that has been removed from the animal, which includes the fur and skin. This definition is accurate because a pelt is essentially the complete covering of the animal before it undergoes any processing or tanning. Although tanning is a process applied to the skin to preserve it and often enhance its texture and durability, the definition focuses on the skin in its raw form after removal from the animal.

The other options describe distinct aspects of fur and hide processing but do not accurately represent what a pelt is. For instance, the skin after tanning refers to a finished product, while fur still attached pertains to the animal itself, and the name of the rabbit's color pattern relates to its appearance rather than the physical aspect of the animal's covering. Thus, recognizing that a pelt is specifically the hide post-removal clarifies its definition.