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.
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.
A bowing rabbit is asking to be groomed. The dominant bunny will approach its companion head-on, often touching noses. Its ears will be raised, and it will sometimes nudge the other rabbit's chin to prompt the grooming.
The best places to pet a rabbit are their forehead and behind their ears. The cheeks and strokes down their backs are also good spots. But rabbits dislike being pet on their bottom, feet, chin, and underside.
Move slowly and talk quietly around rabbits so as not to startle them. They're more likely to be relaxed in a quiet and calm handling environment. Picking rabbits up when you're close to ground level is less likely to scare them, and is also safer, as it helps prevent them from being dropped from a height by accident.
It is common for rabbits to be offended and hold grudges against people. The most common sign that a rabbit is upset is when they give you the cold shoulder, ignoring you and refusing to take any treats. Rabbits holding a grudge will also flick their feet and people and urinate in places they normally wouldn't.
If they are not given enough attention, rabbits can exhibit destructive behaviors or become severely depressed. They are social animals that need the company of others in order to be happy. If you take the time to give your rabbit lots of attention every day, you'll be rewarded with a lovable and happy companion.
The nose, face, cheeks, and ears seem like safe areas to try. Under the chin might or might not be a problem area, depending on the rabbit. The back is likely safe. The belly, feet, and rear end seem like no-go areas.
Some rabbits enjoy being kissed. It's akin to being groomed, which is a source of pleasure. If your rabbit responds appropriately, it's safe to kiss her.
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).
At a minimum, you should spend at least an hour with your rabbit every day. However, 3-5 hours (or even more) are ideal. You do not have to be giving your rabbit undivided attention during this time, but instead, make yourself available to interact with them if they want to.
Squeal. If your rabbit nips or bites you (sometimes rabbits nip when they want something or want your attention - it's not always aggressive): give a high-pitched squeal as soon as she nips or bites you. This will let her know that she hurt you and she should not nip or bite you.
Rabbits should not be picked up by the scruff of their neck; proper gentle handling should be used instead. Appropriate handling will be safer and less distressing to the rabbit. A rabbit must never be lifted or held by the ears. This is distressing, painful, and cruel, and can also damage the ears.
Depending on the severity of the offence, a rabbit can hold a grudge from hours to several days. Sometimes, a simple stroke on the forehead or an apologetic treat can remedy a miffed bunny, but if your rabbit is truly offended, they can sulk for quite some time!
Bunnies must chew to keep their teeth healthy. Offer Floppy lots of fun playthings to keep her amused. Many household items can be upcycled into great, inexpensive, bunny toys. Stuff fresh hay or herbs into a paper bag, or crumple up pieces of paper and toss them to your adorable pal.
Rabbits will try to make themselves look larger and more threatening by sitting up on their back legs and raising their front paws in a 'boxing' motion. Other signs of an angry rabbit include ears that are pointed upwards and facing outwards, bared teeth and making threatening noises such as growling.
Correctly picking up and holding a bunny
To properly pick up a rabbit, place one hand under the rabbit's front armpits, place your other hand on the rump near the hind end, lift and hold the rabbit securely to your body. Make sure you are supporting the rabbit's back at all times.
We usually tell our adopters that we expect the average bonding is going to take about two and a half weeks.
Sometimes you may need to pick up your rabbits and it's important you do this safely. Rabbits who aren't used to being picked up can bite, scratch or even kick their owners. They tend to prefer being petted on the floor so they feel safer, rather than picked up and cuddled.
Nose Nudging: Nose nudging is another behavior that has several meanings. Rabbits might nudge, push, or toss things around as a form of play, to solicit attention from you, or as a territorial behavior meaning “mine!” or “get out of the way!”
Rabbits explore their environment by sniffing and nudging. It may be a greeting or their first line of investigation. But nudging can also indicate a level of bossiness. Your rabbit might be telling you, “You're in my way!” They may also be trying to get your attention because you're not petting them.
Most rabbits will adore being massaged at the base of the ears and along the neck. This is a great petting spot, and a good place to start easing your rabbit into ear touching. Over numerous petting sessions, gradually begin touching its ears with gentle passes of your hand.
To keep your rabbit happy and healthy, let it out of its cage at least once a day, giving it time to roam. Though at least one hour is necessary, aim closer to three or four. As a rule, never keep your rabbit cooped up for 24 hours at a time.