Bunny behaviour

Is my rabbit happy?
There are lots of signs that your rabbit might be happy but first we need to get the basics right. Rabbits need access to space - at least 3m x 2m at all times. They need to be free of pain, with access to exotic vet care, have a healthy diet, and have some bunny friends. Once you’ve covered space, diet and companionship you’re bunny can be happy! Signs that your rabbits might be happy are binkying (jumping and twisting in the air), running really fast, flopping and rolling. These forms of play and relaxation show that your bunnies are feeling good.

Why does my rabbit bite?
There is a big difference between nipping and biting. Nipping may leave a small mark but won’t break the skin and is quite a normal way for a rabbit to communicate. They might just be asking that you get out their way or leave them alone. A true bite will break the skin and cause bleeding and bruising. It is not normal for a rabbit to bite like this and they may be distressed or in pain. A thorough health check should be carried out with a rabbit vet if this behaviour starts.

Why does my rabbit lick me?
A very happy and relaxed rabbit may lick you because they are happy and trust you. However it is important to consider other reasons. If they do not have a rabbit companion they will be lonely, and the licking is a sign that they are desperate for a friend to groom. Rabbits can also lick excessively when distressed.

Why does my rabbit destroy things?
Rabbits like destroying things - that’s just part and parcel of being a rabbit. What we see as destructive is often just natural bunny behaviour like digging or scratching. Destructive behaviour can often be reduced by stopping your bunny getting bored. So if they live alone, that means getting them a friend and, if they’re in a cage, giving them more space. You can also make sure your rabbits have lots of enrichment so they can explore these behaviours in a way you prefer. Visit our shop to browse toys and snacks that will keep them occupied.

Why does my rabbit wee on the sofa?
The sofa is soft and smells like you so it can be the most attractive place for a rabbit to wee. We would recommend penning off the sofa rather than caging the rabbit whilst you go back to basics with litter training. Provide hay only in litter trays and quickly clean up any wee and poo back into the litter tray to show them where it goes.

Why is my rabbit thumping?
Rabbits thump to communicate fear, annoyance or to get attention. All rabbits are different and some bunnies will thump for fun as a sign of play. Make sure your rabbits are in an environment where they feel safe and have somewhere to hide and escape if they feel threatened.

Why do rabbits eat their own poo?
It’s not only normal for rabbits to eat their own poop, it’s really important too. The first time a rabbit eats something they don’t get all the nutrients out - so by eating their poo they’re giving their digestive systems a second chance to get all the good stuff. It is the softer poos, known as cecotropes, that rabbits will eat. If you see that these softer poos are not being eaten then it might be because your rabbit’s diet is not quite right and it’s worth visiting a rabbit savvy exotic vet.

Why do rabbits’ noses twitch?
By twitching their noses rabbits are able to pick up more smells. It’s also thought to help them breathe more easily and regulate their body temperature. A rabbit's nose might twitch very fast if they’re out of breath, feeling too hot, or feeling unwell.

Why does my rabbit nudge me?
Your rabbit might nudge you if they want attention, maybe they want stroking or food. They might also nudge you out of the way if you’re in their space and they want to be left alone. Be aware that often bunnies who are lonely will be more desperate for strokes as this simulates the feeling of being groomed by another rabbit. Get in touch with us if you need advice on getting your bunny a companion.

Why does my rabbit rub their chin on things?
Chinning or scent marking is really common behaviour for rabbits. They may do it to mark their territory, when investigating a new object, or just out of habit. Rabbits often repeat patterns of behaviour so if they scentmark something once, it is likely they’ll do it again! Your rabbit might chin you too, this is often a sign of affection.