When your rabbit lays with its legs out, known as a "sploot" or "Superman pose," it's a strong sign of being very relaxed, comfortable, and trusting, as they are in a vulnerable position where they can't quickly hop away, often done to cool down or lounge. This behavior is normal and indicates happiness, but watch for a full flop on their side, which is the ultimate sign of contentment and security.
Leg dragging and repeated laying down in rabbits can indicate nerve injury, pain, or side effects from recent trauma or infection. Nail trimming may cause discomfort but is unlikely the sole cause. The ongoing antibiotic treatment for ear infection suggests possible systemic involvement.
Splooting is when a dog, cat, or rabbit lies flat on their belly with their back legs stretched out behind them — kind of like a superhero pose. It's their way of relaxing, cooling off, or just lounging in the most adorable way possible. Whether it's a full sploot or a lazy half-sploot, it's always a crowd-pleaser.
However, if your otherwise healthy elder rabbit begins to exhibit these signs, it's possible that his or her time is coming to an end.
A rabbit that is lying down is usually a sign that they are happy and relaxed. It's not unusual to see your rabbit zoom around the house or garden and then flop down on their side and stretch out. The first time you see this it can be a hit worryi...
The 3-3-3 rule for rabbits (and other pets) is a guideline for adjusting to a new home: 3 Days for the rabbit to feel overwhelmed and hide, 3 Weeks to start settling in and showing personality, and 3 Months to feel truly at home and build a strong bond. It helps adopters manage expectations, understand that fear and skittishness are normal, and encourages patience as the bunny decompresses in its new environment, emphasizing providing a safe space and routine.
Signs of pain include: > grinding teeth > rapid and shallow breathing > pulling hair > decreased grooming > hunched posture > lethargy > increased thirst and urination > a reluctance to move > bulging, strained, staring, or unfocused eyes.
Signs your rabbit is unwell
When one rabbit in a pair passes it's extremely important that the survivor is given the chance to be with the deceased body for a few hours. This may sound bizarre, even morbid, but leaving the deceased body gives the surviving rabbit the ability to say goodbye and absorb what has happened to their friend.
Small and medium rabbits have a longer lifespan and are considered to be elderly between six and eight years old. Large, giant and dwarf breeds have a shorter lifespan and are considered elderly at four years old. All rabbits age differently and some can show signs of aging sooner than others.
Signs of a stressed rabbit include body language like ears pinned back, a tense hunched posture, wide eyes, and stillness, combined with behavioral changes such as hiding excessively, aggression (biting, lunging), destructive bar biting, changes in eating/toileting, restlessness, rapid breathing, or unusual vocalizations like grunting. These signals, often a prey animal's reaction to feeling threatened or unhappy, need prompt attention as chronic stress can cause serious health issues.
They groom you
They will lick each other and maybe give a couple love nips to help the other bun out. When your rabbit starts to lick you or your clothing, it means that they see you as part of their bunny family. They trust you and love you enough to care about your cleanliness and well being.
Often a rabbit in pain will sit hunched up, unwilling to move. A rabbit that sits hunched up, with eyes half closed, and firm teeth grinding is likely in pain and needs a vet check form filled out and supervisor notified.
If your rabbits live in a 'barren' (small, bare and plain) environment, they can become bored, frustrated and even depressed. Signs of an unhappy rabbit can include a hunched posture, not moving much, an unhealthy coat, dull eyes and tummy problems.
Beyond the Flop lies the scariest-looking bunny sleep position of them all, the Dead Rabbit Pose. The rabbit is lying completely rolled over on his side, his legs are sprawled but almost stiff looking, and his head is entirely flat to the ground.
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It's important to monitor your rabbit closely after they've lost a companion. Some rabbits can become depressed if they're left alone when a friend passes away. Your remaining pet may also stop eating and drinking.
A previous study based on primary veterinary care showed that the most common causes of death in pet rabbits were myiasis, myxomatosis, and bite injuries, which could be prevented by improved housing and suitable care [5].
Rabbits don't cry, limp, or whimper like dogs. They don't yowl or lick a wound like cats. They hide it—deeply, silently. By the time a rabbit looks like it's in pain, it's often in serious trouble.
If your rabbits suddenly stop behaving 'normally', or aren't showing many signs of being happy, then you should first take them to your vet. They will be able to rule out any medical conditions that could cause a change in your rabbits' behaviour.
Painful conditions like dental issues, gastrointestinal problems, or injury can make eating difficult for rabbits. Reduced Appetite: If your rabbit stops eating their usual amount of food or refuses certain types of food, this could indicate pain, especially if the issue is related to their teeth or digestive system.
Most commonly, rabbits make muttering sounds amongst themselves or squeal when they're in pain.
Rabbits dont sweat or pant and therefore regulate their temperature through their ears… cooler ears are actually a good sign. If their ears are hot it means they are overheated and need to cool down. Cooler ears is actually very healthy for them.