Whether or not a rabbit bites has more to do with their past life and their current environment than the personality they were born with. So, what makes a rabbit bite?
Most often rabbits bite because they’re uncomfortable, scared, or even just surprised. A rabbit’s personality comes into play when you determine what they’re comfortable with. For example, some rabbits may be okay sitting in your lap while others would rather you pet them while they sit on the ground. It’s also best to sit on the ground if you want to hold your bun!
As rabbit parents, it’s important to know what your rabbit is comfortable with and then respect that! Of course, over time they can warm up to people and cuddles but it’s up to your rabbit to determine when that is.
Let’s talk about the common triggers that can provoke a rabbit bite and how to prevent these incidents by reading your rabbit’s body language to keep them comfortable.
What Triggers A Rabbit Bite?
A rabbit doesn’t bite because they don’t like someone and they don’t bite because they’re mean. In a lot of scenarios they tried to tell you something with their body language but they weren’t heard and it escalated to a bite.
And other times their instincts kick in and they’re worried there’s danger around and they jump to protect themselves without thinking too much!
Feeling Over Crowded
If there are a lot of people around your bun, especially strangers, they’re probably getting scared. It’s important that a rabbit always has a place they can retreat to if they start feeling overwhelmed.
Never try and trap your rabbit in order to let people do what they want with your bun! This can certainly trigger a bite simply because they’re very scared and uncomfortable and want to escape.
Hearing Loud Noises
A loud noise could be a monster coming to get everyone in the house. When you’re a rabbit in the wild that’s a very real possibility! A rabbit’s instinct to be on high alert runs deep inside of them.
The stress from sensing danger nearby can make a rabbit bite more likely to happen. Especially if the loud noises are a constant occurrence where they can never truly relax and feel safe.
Sudden Movements Around Them
A sudden movement is probably someone coming to grab them away from their safe home. Another big concern for rabbits and certainly a stressor!
When humans get stressed we are more likely to yell or say something we don’t mean. Both people and rabbits can act most like themselves when they’re relaxed!
Pain
A rabbit that’s in pain is not only uncomfortable but they also have the added worry that they won’t be able to run to safety if something was to go wrong.
Protecting Their Territory
Rabbits can be very territorial, especially with other rabbits. If the biting is happening between rabbits then it’s likely that they’re protecting their territory.
Rabbits who aren’t bonded shouldn’t be introduced where one of the rabbits claims the space as their own. They need to meet on neutral territory. Bonding rabbits is a process of its own!
Do Some Breeds Bite More Than Others?
The Netherland Dwarf rabbit was bred with wild rabbits more recently than a lot of the other popular breeds. For this reason, they may be more likely to bite due to their natural instincts coming through stronger.
Signs Your Rabbit Is Uncomfortable
Rabbits may seem like quiet pets but they actually say a lot with their body language! Here are some ways your rabbit is telling you they don’t like what’s going on:
running to hide or escape the chaos
a hunched and tense position
loud teeth grinding
lunging towards something or someone
grunting
These are all clear signs that your rabbit needs some space and the situation needs to be evaluated. What makes a rabbit bite? When you continue to push them when they’re stressed.
When Do Rabbits Bite Their Owners?
If you have a rabbit that’s never bitten before and suddenly they are, then you need to take a good look at their environment to see if there have been any changes recently. If not, to the vet!
Some rabbits just aren’t happy with their environment right from the start. If your rabbit’s enclosure isn’t large enough then that will certainly be a stressor in their life. Being confined to too small of a space can lead to biting.
Also, boredom can lead to an unhappy bun! Make sure you have their space set up properly with plenty of hay and toys. Happy rabbits spend their day digesting lots of fiber and chewing enough to wear their ever-growing teeth down.
Rabbits are also very smart and curious! Give them space to explore. Give your rabbit the best life you can and you’ll see their aggression decrease and their personality come out!
What Keeps A Rabbit Comfortable?
All members of your family or anyone who wants to interact with your rabbit needs to understand how to show respect for animals and pets. This means you keep their wants and needs ahead of anything you may want to do when interacting with them.
Just because we’re a lot bigger doesn’t mean we can boss them around! If you’re going to have a rabbit make sure they’re being treated like a loved member of the family.
Ways to show respect for your bun:
- approach your pet calmly and slowly
- speak softly regardless of how excited you are to see your bun
- hold your rabbit close to your body with their feet supported
- pick up your bun when you’re very close to the ground
- don’t leave young children alone with your bun
- use toys and treats to encourage interactions
- give your bun a safe hideaway to destress in
If it seems like your rabbit can’t relax and is easily agitated and you don’t see a trigger, take your bun to the vet! A vet can help identify anything that might be causing them pain or discomfort health-wise.
We are not veterinarians, and none of our information should be construed as veterinary advice.
Before adding any new product, please consult your exotic veterinarian. If your pet is acting unwell and you have concerns for their well being, please contact your vet immediately.
