Rabbit behavior: Frequently asked questions

Last Updated on June 12, 2023 by Admin

When it comes to the general rabbit behavior, there are usually a lot of questions that new owners or at times avid breeders find perplexing. For instance, how do you know whether your bunny is happy, sick, bored, hungry, excited, or in distress? Not to worry as this article answers all the frequently asked questions about a bunny’s behavior, what it means, and how to react accordingly.

 

 

  • How long does it take for your rabbit to start bonding with you?

 

In most cases it usually takes a few months, however, it can be more or less depending on your bunny’s personality. It’s always advisable to let your rabbit get fond of you. In other words, let them come to you since rabbits are instinctively prey animals that are naturally shy.

 

  • What are the signs that indicate your rabbit trusts you?

 

A rabbit that naturally rests or lays down next to you is a tell-tale sign that they trust you. It is even more evident if your bunny goes to sleep next to you or starts nodding off completely. If you see this rabbit behavior, rest assured that they see you as less of a threat.

  • How do you know if your rabbit is comfortable around you?

 

It’s easy to know whether your rabbit is comfortable with you by observing their body language. For instance, a relaxed body, hoping, or a nose twitch implies happiness.

 

  • How do you know if your bunny doesn’t like you?

 

The grunting of your rabbit indicates that they are feeling threatened and don’t want to be handled. Try not to reach for your rabbit’s food, toys, or litter box while they grunt at you. On the other hand, whining or whimpering is a sign of intense agony or apprehension about dying.

 

  • How can you get your rabbit to cuddle with you?

 

Your rabbit will appreciate it if you often spend quality time with them. You can strengthen your bond by grooming them, coupled with feeding your pet bunny which will eventually lead to them accepting to cuddle.

 

  • How do you know if a bunny wants you to pet it?

 

There is a high probability that if you take good care of your pet rabbit, they will eventually adore you and want to be with you all the time. It should be noted that bunnies show signs of happiness through body language. Below are some rabbit behavior/ body language and what it implies.

 

Licks and Nibbles

A rabbit that affectionately licks, nuzzle, or nibbles you gently is a sign of love, submission, and affection. On other occasions, your bunny will show affection by licking or nibbling your clothes.

Demanding Head Rubs

Bunnies that nudge you and then sit expectantly indicate that they are in need of a head rub. It is also an indication that your rabbit thinks they’re in charge. Unlike dogs, a bunny that loves you will enjoy head rubs and neck scratches and will not mind if you delude them into thinking they are in charge.

Running Around Your Feet in Circles

When bunnies meet their owners, they may run around their feet alternating between binkying and taking a step or two. This rabbit behavior can be a sign of happiness or it may also indicate that your bunny needs something. Some might call it begging, especially if you’re holding a treat such as a banana or pellets when they are hungry.

Binkying

A rabbit that flips or leaps in the air while flapping its ears around is an indication of a happy and content pet. Bunny binky is typically one of the ways your bunny expresses happiness or excitement.

 

Lying Down

Does your pet rabbit stretch out or flop down around you? If they do, it clearly shows that they trust you entirely since a bunny that is exposing its tummy is typically in a vulnerable state.

Tooth-clicking

A rabbit’s version of the purr is known as tooth clicking. This rabbit behavior is usually common, and it involves a soft sound your bunny makes when they are in a happy state. A bunny tooth- clicks when you gently stroke or pat them.

  • How can you get your bunny to trust you?

 

Building trust with your bunny entails making them feel comfortable around you. For starters, placing them in a spacious environment where they can play and hop in is a great way of making them feel comfortable not just with you but their surrounding as well. Giving them treats and also playing with them is another amazing way of bonding with your pet rabbits. It’s worth mentioning that consistency and a little bit of patience are key when it comes to building trust with your bunny.

 

  • Do rabbits get attached to their owners?

 

Yes, they absolutely do. Rabbits identify their owners through appearance and the sound of their voices. With sufficient training and affection, your bunny can even hop around the house following you in every room. Since rabbits are social animals just like most pets, they mostly enjoy spending time with other rabbits and with time they will easily get attached to their owners too.

 

  • How do rabbits show affection?

 Rabbits show affection through grooming. So if your bunny gently licks, nuzzle, or tries to nibble you then it implies that they care and also trust you.

 

  • How do you tell if your rabbit is angry at you?

 An angry bunny has erect ears that point forward. When they get angered further, you’ll notice their ears pointing sideways then backward. It’s usually important to take note of this and desist from any annoying behavior towards your pet.

 

  • Why does my rabbit move things?

 

When a bunny tries removing things( nose nudge), it either means that they want to get through an obstacle or they are simply trying to rearrange stuff. For instance, when you see your pet constantly trying to remove items around their cage, it implies that they are simply unhappy with the setup. Bunnies are natural organizers who prefer keeping their surroundings as neat as possible.

 

 

  • Why does my rabbit pick things up and throw them?

 

Tossing stuff is usually a sign of your pet bunny wanting to play or an indication of attracting attention. For instance, when you spot your pet tossing their food bowl it’s most likely an indication that they are hungry and want to eat.

 

 

  • What does bunny stomping mean?

 

A rabbit will stomp their feet when they want to communicate something urgent. For instance, a bunny may thump when there is imminent danger around. They may also do so when they’re annoyed, or when they want undivided attention.

 

 

  • Why is my rabbit putting his/her chin on everything?

 

Your bunny might be rubbing its chin on stuff around the house simply because that’s where their scent gland is located. In most cases, your rabbit might leave their scent behind by marking territory while doing so.

 

 

  • How do rabbits say hello?

 

Bunnies say hello through nose bonking. When your pet nose nudges you, they’re simply trying to say hello, or they might just be curious wanting to investigate.

 

  • What is a rabbit’s form of communication?

 

Their main form of communication is usually through body language, to be specific using silent cues. For instance, a soft whimper or squeal means that they are annoyed, on the other hand, growling, grunting, hissing, or snorting simply means that they are stressed, angry or feel threatened. Bunnies often mutter with each other and tend to cluck in their sleep just like the way a person snores.

 

 

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