Do Your Understand Your Pet Bunny Rabbit’s Personality?

When you mention the word “rabbit” many people think of Bugs
Bunny. In reality, rabbits are very different from their cartoon
counterparts. Rabbits may be cute, fuzzy, and adorable, but that
does not mean they enjoy cuddling up to humans or being picked
up and carried around.

In fact, improper handling of your new pet can result in harm,
so before you pick out your new pet rabbit, make sure you
understand all the basics of rabbit animal behavior and care.

How to Handle Rabbits–Should you Pick Up Your Rabbit?

As creatures who walk on all four feet and whose bodies are low
to the ground, rabbits tend to feel the most comfortable and
safe while sitting or laying on the floor. Therefore, when
picked up, rabbits may become nervous, panicked, or even
downright terrified. When this happens, they may begin kicking
out their hind-legs.

Why is this such a danger? Well, when your pet rabbit thrashes
around he risks fracturing his back (remembers, rabbits bones,
including spinal cords, are very fragile). If you pick up a
rabbit and he starts to get nervous, put him down immediately
and carefully, and do not try to physically restrain him.

Above all, never pick up a bunny rabbit by its ears. If you do
pick up your rabbit, it should be done by carefully lifting from
the scruff of the neck, then supporting the rest of the body
with your other hand.

How to Pet a Rabbit

Since rabbits do not like to be picked up as much as other pet
animals, you may not be able to pick up your bunny and pet him
in your lap as you may want to. Respect your pet bunnies wish to
stay closer to the ground. Instead of lifting him up, let him
sit beside you, then pet him gently.

If your rabbit seems nervous, use one hand to gently cover his
eyes, then stroke his back soothingly and calmly. This will help
ease him back to a peaceful state.

Also, it is important to supervise your children while they are
learning to pet their rabbits. Make sure they do not use too
much pressure or try to pick up the animals, for the reasons
described above. Set a good example by showing them how to treat
the rabbit, then ask them to follow your lead.

How Rabbits Interact with Humans

Just because rabbits do not like to be held dont be fooled! They
really are loving and sociable creatures, and they need (and
want) your attention. In fact, one of the best reasons to keep
your pet bunny housed inside your home is that he will feel like
he is becoming a part of the family. Being around humans gives
rabbits the idea that they are part of a group; they dislike
being lonely and enjoy companionship.

As rabbits tend to be high-strung creatures, settling in with
and getting to know a familiar and loving group of humans can
really set their minds at ease and make them healthier and
happier.

If you follow this advice, you will probably find that you will
develop a close and satisfying relationship with your pet bunny.
He will grow to trust you and show you various sides of his
personality. He may very likely exhibit a sense of humor and
compassionate feelings toward you … which as all animal
lover’s know is a wonderful reward!

by Andrea Austin, http://www.rabbits-n-bunnies.com