Rabbit behaviour is the way rabbits communicate or show how they feel. Getting to know these behaviors and find out what they mean is a good way to make sure your bunny feels safe and happy.
Actions
Rabbits show a lot of their mood through actions. They may jump, run around, or kick to display different feelings.
Binkies
When they are extremely happy, rabbits jump in the air and wiggle their bodies while running. It kind of looks like they are jumping away from something that scared them, but binkies are just a way of showing their happiness.
Zoomies
Another way rabbits show happiness is when they start running at top speed around a room or outside in a backyard. They are excited, filled with energy and are bursting with joy. They may even do several binkies while they do this.
Flop
Flopping is a rabbit’s way of showing contentment. At first, it looks like your rabbit just fell over and died, but fortunately it is a normal rabbit behaviour. It shows that the rabbit is relaxed and comfortable.
Chinning
Rabbits have scent glands underneath their chin to mark their territories. A house rabbit may rub their chin on their toys, objects, or even on you to show that whatever they chinned is theirs.Â
Thumping
In the wild, bunnies use their hind legs to thump out a warning whenever danger is near. House rabbits thump when they feel threatened or are afraid of their surroundings. If your rabbit starts thumping, leave them alone for a few minutes so they can calm down, then find out what scared them and take it away.
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Kicking
Another rabbit aggressive behavior is when they kick. Sometimes you can see your rabbit kick up dirt as they hop away. They may also kick while you’re carrying them. If they do, put your bunny down as soon as possible, because they can break their back if they kick hard enough.
Tail
One of the rabbit tail behaviors is when they show the white part, or the bottom of their tail when running. In the wild, this is a way to signal to other bunnies that danger is around. Your rabbit may also do this if they get scared by something and run to safety.
Noises
Believe it or not, rabbits actually make noises. They use it to voice their feelings to other rabbits or to their owners. Like cats, rabbits sometimes purr when you pet them, to show that they’re content. They may also grind their teeth while you pet them, but if your bunny is hunched up tight into a ball while teeth-grinding, they may be unwell. If you notice your rabbit doing this, contact your vet to examine them. Rabbits also growl when they’re annoyed or angry.
Getting to know the different rabbit behaviours helps you to know how your pet is feeling and if they are happy. It can also tell you if your rabbit is unwell or unhappy. It is important to make sure that your rabbit is healthy and happy, and knowing their language is a great way to affirm that.
