strange bunny behavior

Question
Hi,

I have a very sweet, young mini-lop.  She has always been friendly and fairly mellow.  She is our only rabbit, and we've had her since she was a baby. Lately, however, when I  go to pet her, she starts to frantically sniff my feet and legs, (she lives free in our house...we only cage her at night,) and tries to climb up my legs.  This is very strange and unusual for her.  She doesn't do this with the other members of my household.  Then, if I try to take her off me and put her in her cage, she scratches me very hard.  Can you tell me what's up with her?

Answer
Dear Annie,

Well, since I can't observe the behavior in person I'll only be able to guess.  But here goes.

You don't say how old she is, nor whether she is spayed.  It sounds as if this is the onset of puberty and sex-related behavior, and she should be spayed for her own health and longevity.  Please read:

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

I also have to wonder if you've started using a new soap or detergent that she finds irresistible.  Sometimes a bunny will become infatuated with a scent, and act this way.  

You can find a good vet to help with the spay here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

Hope this helps.

Dana