Honking/oinking/humming Honking is a sound that rabbits make when they are happy and excited. I hear rabbits make this soft sound when they are expecting treats or when they get excited for play time. For most rabbits, this is a very soft sound that is difficult to hear unless you listen very closely.
OINKS/HONKS: Meaning varies. Soft oinking sounds, especially those made by a doe, are often a part of the mating ritual, which can occur even with fixed bunnies. Can be a come-hither or “not tonight, dear…”. Soft, musical sort of sound, never used aggressively.
Your rabbit is angry, feels threatened and is showing disapproval. Your rabbit may, for example, be saying 'Leave me alone' if he doesn't want to be handled, or if he wants to protect his territory – such as his cage or food – from a human hand or another rabbit.
Honking is usually heard from a bunny who is excited or one who is about to receive their favorite treat.
Honking is often a sign of pleasure. Some bunnies honk when they are eating, getting treats, getting attention, or snuggling.
Honking is a sound that rabbits make when they are happy and excited. I hear rabbits make this soft sound when they are expecting treats or when they get excited for play time. For most rabbits, this is a very soft sound that is difficult to hear unless you listen very closely.
If a rabbit is honking, grunting, and circling, it's a sign that the mating dance has begun. Both males and females make these noises. If your rabbits have been neutered, they may honk and grunt out of general excitement, like if they see you coming with a treat. They may also do it to get your attention.
What sounds does my rabbit make when they're happy? Unlike a cat that purrs from its throat, a rabbit 'purrs' by very gently rubbing its teeth together. It's a lot quieter than a cat purr, but if you've got your rabbit on your lap and are gently stroking it, you'll hear it if they're feeling very contented.
Honking is not loud, like a goose's honk. A honking rabbit sounds like fingers rubbed against a balloon. It's a soft sound, somewhere between a grunt, squeak, and snuffle. Rabbit honking could be compared to a pig's oink.
Circling is one way that rabbits will show their affection for the people who they feel close to. It's an indication that your rabbit is excited to see you. You might even notice they are making a quiet oinking or buzzing sound while they do it (sometimes called honking too).
Tense body, upright tail, laid back ears / Lunging: Lunging or a tense body with laid back ears and upright tail is an angry or territorial behavior. The rabbit is telling you it doesn't like what you are doing and is prepared to fight.
Stop petting them and place your hand on either side of their head, near their nose. If the rabbit softly nudges your hand or does nothing and just sits there expectantly, then you know your rabbit is enjoying being pet and wants more.
If your bunny licks you, it's a sign of affection as you'll often see pairs of bunnies grooming each other this way. A bunny lick is a sign of a bond.
Why do rabbits grunt? If your rabbit grunts, it usually means she is angry – and possibly feels threatened. Sometimes, grunting is followed by a nip or bite. Some rabbits do not like it when you rearrange their cages as you clean; they may grunt, charge or even nip you when you try.
Rabbits tend to quietly grind the front teeth when they are happy and relaxed (similar to a cat's purr), and when they wear down their front teeth (to keep them the right size and shape). This type of grinding is common when you stroke a rabbit that is extremely relaxed.
Often times with rabbits, lunging is a warning. They don't want to hurt you, but they are letting you know they could if you don't back off. This behavior is almost always accompanied by a growl.
Why does my rabbit put her head down when I pet her? When your rabbit lays their head down flat on the ground, they are enjoying being pet and are laying still so that you continue. They might even close their eyes or nudge your hand if you stop petting them.
Pulling at their fur and over-grooming - or not grooming at all. A change in feeding or toilet habits. Drinking a lot more. Repeated circling or pacing up and down.
Rabbits are relaxed when they lay with their feet sprawled out. Since it's more difficult for the rabbit to get up and run away in this position, it signals a feeling of calm and safety for the rabbit. Other signs to look out for include: laid-back ears, purring, and a healthy appetite.
Rabbits often use movements, such as thumping their back legs, as a large part of their communication, but verbal sounds are important too. Rabbits are prey animals, unlikely to draw attention to themselves, and any loud noise such as a squeal usually indicates distress or fear and should be investigated.
Many bunnies enjoy cuddles and affection
Bunnies are super-soft, and many will love cuddling with you as much as you love cuddling with them. Once a bunny is comfortable in their new home, they may claim you as their own by rubbing their chin on you to mark their territory.