honking

Question
I just bought a female rex. she has a large double dewlap and is fairly overweight. i have a male rabbit housed next to her in a different cage. everytime i go near her she starts to honk and she freaks out when i try to pick her up. What could this be?

Answer
Dear Daniel,

She's telling you that she doesn't want to be touched or picked up.  It's possible that the proximity of the male has elicited a false pregnancy, which will make her even more shy and grumpy.  Please read:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/shybun.html

for tips on how to win her trust. But especially read:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/breeding.html

and

www.rabbit.org/health/spay.html

I hope this helps.

Dana