Head Shaking It can mean that your rabbit is not happy with the situation (e.g., after it is prevented from entering an off-limit room), or that it is happy (e.g., preceding a binky).
Pleasure or Gratitude – Rabbits shudder and ripple their skin when they are delighted. You'll often notice this after your rabbit has been outside or after you've fed them a special treat. Displeasure – Angry rabbits often twitch their heads or tremble. This is normal If the behavior doesn't last too long.
A head tilt in a rabbit is usually caused by a problem inside the ear or brain (where the balance centre sits). Inner ear infections and E. caniculi (a tiny parasite that causes swelling in the brain) are the two most common causes of a head tilt in a rabbit.
Shaking – Like humans, rabbits may tremble with fear. When they (and we) are frightened, a rush of adrenaline – the 'fight or flight' hormone – increases their heart rate and makes their muscles twitch. They breathe faster, too.
The best way to gain your rabbits' trust is by simply spending lots of time being near them, while allowing your bunnies to approach you in their own time. By sitting quietly with them in a safe enclosure, you'll show your rabbits that you aren't to be feared and that you can be trusted.
Rabbits express their excitement by shaking their head and ears. This is their way of inviting you to play with them. Rabbits often do this when they want to be let out of their cage and get extremely excited for playtime! EARS SHAKING (-): It's so itchy!
Loafed / Splooting: Loafing or splooting is when your rabbit is in relaxation mode. They're either bundled up and looking like a little loaf with their front legs tucked in to form a rounded shape or stretched out with their back legs stretched out behind them.
A flop is when your bunny rolls over onto their side. This indicates contentment when bunnies roll over and flop down to relax.
The common causes of shaking are fear, nervousness, and stress. A less obvious cause of trembling is heat, as rabbits do not tolerate high temperatures well. If your rabbit is lying on its side and shaking, it could be due to a digestive issue (GI stasis).
TOOTH CHATTERING (“Purring”): A rapid, soft chattering sound from the teeth. Generally happens when bunny is being patted or cuddled. A very pleasing sound of contentment and trust.
Bunnies show affection by grooming, so if your rabbits gently nuzzle, lick, and perhaps even try to nibble you gently, they are showing you that they love and care for you. This is also a sign of submission. Sometimes your bunny will lick and nibble your clothing or a piece of nearby fabric instead of you.
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.
Understanding your rabbit's feelings
If they're worried, their ears will be flattened against their back. You can also look at your rabbit's eyes and body posture, as well as their behaviour - for example, a rabbit may be anxious if they're hiding.
Hold rabbits gently but firmly - ensure one hand supports their back and hindquarters at all times. Help them feel secure by holding all four feet against your body. Never pick rabbits up by their ears - this would be extremely stressful and is highly likely to injure them.
They are very social. Rabbits enjoy being around people and can usually recognise their owners by sight and sound.
Nudging, head butting or rubbing against you is rabbit body language for loving attention. 'Give them a stroke or cuddle, or what you know they enjoy', says Rosie. 'Rubbing their faces against you is a way of sharing their scent profile, and showing that you really are friends.
They constantly want to be pet
They love spending time with you, and they love the attention you're giving them. It also shows that they're not afraid of being picked up every time you interact, since most rabbits do not like being held. Rabbits will lay down next to you if they trust you.
When a rabbit nibbles or bites you softly it is often accompanied with licking, which is a sign of love. He is trying to groom you and is simulating the grooming process (however, you have no fur to build up knots in so it results in just a little nibble of the skin).
Your rabbit may show signs of wanting attention from you by nudging you, softly biting or even making digging notions directly on you. On the other hand, they may show signs of withdrawing from you, refusing interaction and not responding when you try to pet or play. A lonely rabbit may become hyperactive and angry.