my bunny is scared

Question
I have had my dwarf rabbit for 2 1/2 weeks now.  She hates being held!  She shakes and acts like I'm hurting her if I pet her.  She only eats treats out of my hand when she is in the mood, otherwise she turns her back to me.  Sounds don't frighten her but she doesn't like me taking her out of her cage or picking her up.  She loves to run around the kitchen while I am cooking and doesn't seem to mind me walking around.  Does she just need more time to get used to me?  Will she ever cuddle with me or let me hold her?

Answer
Dear Terra,

People are usually surprised to learn that most rabbits do NOT like to be held and cuddled.  They are prey animals, and when they are held they feel out of control and vulnerable.  

There are good ways to win her trust, however, and you can read about them here:

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

We have LOTS of bunnies living with us, and each has a unique personality.  A rare one will love to be held and cuddled.  More often, a bunny prefers to be cuddled by you with her feet on the ground, and your nose and arm pressed up against her.  And still others prefer little or no physical contact.  It's just their personalities!

Since your bunny is such a new addition to the household, there's still time to get her to trust you and allow you more freedom to cuddle if you don't push things too fast.  I think the article above will help a lot.  :)

Please write back if you have other questions, and be sure to visit:

www.rabbit.org/

and

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

for all the latest information on proper rabbit care.

Dana