How to Calm a Thumping Rabbit

How to Calm a Thumping Rabbit. Similar to humans, rabbits communicate using sounds and body language. According to Pet Place, thumping is one of the ways your rabbit can express itself. Thumping commonly indicates that your pet companion is angry or senses danger. To understand what your rabbit is trying to tell you, it's essential to learn about rabbit behavior. Once you understand your rabbit, you'll be better able to help him calm down.

Things Needed

• Gloves

Step 1

Put on thick gloves to protect your hands. If your rabbit is thumping because he's angry, he may bite you.

Step 2

Inspect the room and eliminate any potential dangers that your rabbit may be responding to. A cat outside the door or unfamiliar sounds can trigger your rabbit to start thumping to signal danger.

Step 3

Sit on the floor and pet your rabbit. Speak softly and tell him that everything is all right. Responding in a loving manner helps to calm your rabbit down.

Step 4

Pick your rabbit up and hold him. Place one hand under your rabbit's rump and the other hand around his rib cage. Place your rabbit's back against your chest so his feet and face are pointing away from you. Holding your rabbit in this manner comforts him and helps him to relieve anger.

Step 5

Avoid aggressively responding to your rabbit's thumping. Aggression will only confuse your rabbit and can scare him even more. According to the San Diego House Rabbit Society, if rabbits get really scared, they can die from fright.

Step 6

Spend at least one hour per day with your rabbit. Play with him and allow him to hop around the room. Sometimes thumping is your rabbit's way of asking for attention.

Warnings

• Never ignore your rabbit's thumping. Avoid picking your rabbit up if he's thumping and excessively aggressive. Check the area for potential dangers and leave your rabbit alone so he can calm down.

References

• Pet Place: Understanding Your Rabbit
• House Rabbit Society: FAQ: Aggression
• San Diego House Rabbit Society: Why Does My Bunny Do That?