Understanding Rabbit Behavior:
What is Your Rabbit Trying to Tell You?
If you’re a rabbit owner, you know that rabbits can be difficult to understand. While they may not be able to communicate with words, they still have their own way of communicating—through body language and behavior. By understanding what your rabbit is trying to tell you, you can build a better relationship with your furry friend and make sure they are happy and healthy.
Some of you know, I first fell in love with rabbits a few years ago when I met a couple at a fiber festival. For me, they were the ideal dual-purpose pet. I have English Angora Rabbits. They not only provide me with beautiful fiber for spinning and crocheting, but they are also the sweetest, happiest little companions ever. When I say I love them I truly mean it. Each one has a distinct personality, likes, and dislikes, and they express their wants and needs pretty clearly if you know what to look for. So for those of you new to “bunny talk” here are a few quick translations to keep in mind.
Rabbits use body language to express how they feel about something or someone. Here are some of the more common behaviors rabbits exhibit and what they mean:
• Thumping - This is a sign of alarm or fear from your rabbit. (Unless it’s my bunny, Goldie, and she is just mad at you for not getting her more treats!) It’s an instinctual behavior that wild rabbits use as a warning signal when they sense danger nearby.
• Licking - When a rabbit licks you or another animal, it usually means that it loves and trusts you. It’s one of the best signs that your rabbit feels safe in its environment.
• Sniffing - Rabbits often sniff the air around them to gather information about their environment. They also sniff other animals, including humans, as a way of saying hello!
• Teeth Grinding - This is usually an indication that your rabbit is in pain or feeling stressed out by something in its environment. If your rabbit is exhibiting this behavior, it’s important to take it to the vet for a checkup as soon as possible.
• Chinning - This behavior involves rubbing its chin against objects like furniture or even people—it’s actually a sign of affection! Your rabbit is marking its territory with its scent glands and letting other animals know that this area belongs to them.
Understanding your rabbit's body language can help you build a better relationship with them and make sure they are feeling safe and loved in their environment. From thumping when scared to chinning when happy, knowing what your bunny's behaviors mean will help you create the best home possible for them! So keep an eye out for these behaviors next time you're interacting with your fluffy friend—you just might learn something new!
