Getting to Know Your Rabbit
Are rabbits cute? Definitely. Are rabbits as cuddly as they look? Not necessarily. Is a rabbit more like a cat or a dog? Neither.
A rabbit is like a rabbit.
With any good relationship, you have to build trust. The best way to do that is to be understanding, patient, and consistent.
Respect Rabbits’ Prey Instincts
It is hard to resist wanting to hold and snuggle our rabbits! Part of bringing a rabbit into your home is respecting their true nature as a prey animal. Rabbits are not like dogs or cats. They have their own language and rules for earning their trust. Don't rush or force the interaction. Take your time to build and earn your rabbit's trust.
Part of bringing a rabbit into your home is respecting their true nature as a prey animal. Rabbits are not like dogs or cats. They are naturally social and they have their own language and rules for earning their trust.
Although there are some exceptions, most rabbits do not like to be picked up or held. This does not mean that they don't enjoy affection. But in order to relax and enjoy your affection, they have to feel safe and comfortable. For most rabbits that means having all four feet securely on the ground.
Practice Patience
Take your time to build and earn your rabbit's trust. Don't rush or force the interaction. Once your rabbit seems comfortable with your presence, try offering a firm but gentle pets on the top of their head, moving from front to back.
Make sure that they can see your hand approaching so that they are not taken off guard. Do not approach your rabbit from behind, because they will not be able to see you coming and your touch will most likely startle them.
Snuggling close, lying face-to-face or side-by-side, or offering tasty treats are also great ways to put your rabbit at ease and earn their trust. Eventually, they may allow you to pick them up, but remember that most rabbits do not feel comfortable being held or carried, so reserve it for only when necessary, like going to the vet or to the groomer.
Meet Rabbits on Their Level
The best way to build a relationship with your rabbit and earn their trust is to get down on their level. Sit or lie down on the floor and read a book or watch TV and let your rabbit come to you. Ignore them for a while.
Eventually, their natural curiosity will kick in. Once they've determined that you are not a threat they will come over to check you out. This could take minutes or months, depending on their personality, but it works!
Five Tips for Starting a Relationship with Your Rabbit
If you’re initiating a brand new relationship with your rabbit, and you’re unsure how to get started, try these trust-building steps:
Don’t pick them up
Picking rabbits up prevents you from building trust with them.Sit with them on the floor
This helps them get to know you in a space they are comfortable with. Makes all of you accessible on their level.Be calm and quiet
Rabbits can scare easily so make sure the area is relaxing for them. Do not be nervous (they will pick up on it).Introduce yourself
Bring items to encourage interaction, and offer gentle pets.Be consistent
Rabbits love to have a routine – it helps them feel secure. Keep things such as feeding time, playtime, and location consistent.
The more time, love, and effort you put into your relationship with your rabbit, the more you will get in return.
Staff Member Erica Nambo, Iliana and their rabbit, Rue
Volunteer Evan and Sebastian
