Panting.

Question
I found a rabbit in the street and took it in. I have had it for about a month now and although it eats well and has gained weight since I got it, it pants very heavily when picked up. It breathes very, very quickly but doesn't seem unsettled by being handled. Is this normal?

Answer
Sounds totally normal :-)

Even when rabbits don't fight or otherwise appear to be frightened, being picked up is still a rather stressful experience and many will start breathing rapidly out of excitement. My old man Rex also 'pants' whenever we go on car rides. Unless you *need* to pick him up for whatever reason, I'd keep the interactions on ground level where he feels more secure.