The Bunny Box
What was that you said??
All animals display their feelings and moods through body language. They may add grunts,
nips and purrs to emphasis a point, but their body is their loud speaker. Rabbits are no different.
Getting to know your rabbit isn't just useful to tell if they're sick, angry or happy, it's also fun!
I first stumbled across The Language of the Lagomorphs about 12 months ago, and I keep going back.
The site is informative, well put together and extremely funny. I'm not even going to try and
do the same here. I've got a few basics, but I really advise that you visit the site. Your rabbit
will thank you for it!
- Thumping
- When a rabbit has determined something is dangerous they thump the ground vigorously with
their hind feet. This sends a warning to all other rabbits in the area.
- Grunting or Growling
- Usually indicated anger. If it's directed at you I'd advise that you either make up quickly or
get out of the way!
- Chinning
- Rabbits have a scent gland under their chin and mark items by rubbing their chins along them. Once
marked it's considered 'their' property. If your rabbit's inside, don't be surprised if he
claims your favourite chair.
- Chasing
- If this happens during an introduction it's usually part of deciding who's dominant. Other times
it's just a way of having fun. Rabbits are quite playful and love to run and jump around.
- Binky
- A binky is a leap into the air with a half twist of the body before landing. It's an expression
of pure joy. You have one happy bunny on your hands.
- Loafing
- Rabbits love to just lay around next to their favourite friend. A loaf is when they're laying
on their stomach with all four feet tucked underneath.
- Tooth Grinding
- When you're stroking your rabbit you may hear him grinding his teeth (or feel it through
the top of his head). This is a sign of contentment, kind of like a cat purring.
- Ears
- A rabbits ears are usually a good indication of their mood. Two up and forward usually shows interest or
curiosity. One forward and one back shows uncertainty or half interest. Two back can indicate
anger or fear. When reading your rabbits ears it's important to take into consideration what they
rest of their body is doing. For a better description, I'm going to refer you to the link above again.
- Grooming
- A rabbit will present itself for grooming by extending the nose forward and dropping it's head. As you can see by the photo Apache's asking nicely, but Sophie's a little busy with her own needs right now (the grey spot you can see is actually the bottom of her foot).
This is just a very basic guide. Go visit the link I gave you and you'll be looking at your
rabbit in a totally different way.