My Bunnys Behavior

Question
I have a outdoor rabbit.  The part of the cage that has bars, only has a door/opening on the side.  Whenever i try to stick my hand through the door and get my rabbit, she jumps at me.  She throws her paws up in the air, like she is swatting you.  People say maybe she is just playing, but she actually scratches you.  When i have her in her little play pen, she almost jumps, or sort of "attacks" you when you try to pick her up.  I mean, there is nothing wrong with her like a disease, she is not like the really evil rabbit.  I have had her for a very long time: a couple of years, and she has always dont this.  She was not from a pet store, her mother is my cousins rabbit, so i knew she was in good hands.  She was never tortured.  I dont understand, and i want to be able to pick her up.  Please help!!!

P.S- i really want to be able to hold my bunny without her being mean :(

Answer
Hi Nicole

Your rabbit is protecting her territory.  Rabbits are cage protective.  You will have some that don't mind if you reach your hands in there and some that will run right up to you and demand to be petted.  However a good majority of rabbits don't want anyone or anything else in 'their' space.  Your bunny may never like to be held, most rabbits actually hate to be held but you can still have a good relationship with her.  I recommend that you take her to a new play area that she has never been before and you claim it as 'your' area but give her permission to play with you.  Those big outdoor dog pens work nice for this because it gives you enough room to sit in and enough room for your rabbit to run in her own space.  I just bought one today at Tractor Supply and I think it was right around $80.  You just can't leave her outside alone in them because they don't have a top.  They are more of a playpen for the both of you together.  If it is possible to bring her right in the house you would be absolutely amazed at how much more interesting her personality would be.

Anyway make something like that and make it both of your designated area.  Try putting some toys in there and you play with the toys but offer them to her.  It will take time but if you sit completely still she will investigate you and she will learn to trust you.  She may eventually trust you enough that you can reach into her cage without her trying to rip your arm off.  I know it is tricky to get them out when they are like that.  I have a few that are like that when they are in their cage but usually once I get them out and in a neutral area they are complete angels.  I would just wear long sleeves while you are getting them out.

I hope this helps you and good luck with your friend.

Pam