Martin's Bunnies-Handling Rabbits

Handling Your Rabbit: [BACK TO CARE]

First and most important rule of picking up a rabbit is to never pick it up quickly. Be sure your rabbit sees you before you attempt to pick it up. If you try to pick up the rabbit before it has a chance to see you it could attempt to jump and it could hurt itself or you.

Second rule to remember is that rabbits are fragile. Rabbits do not always enjoy being picked up. Some of them will tolerate it, but many will struggle when you try to lift them. Therefore, picking them up can be a delicate business. They are quick, but have weak skeletal systems.

Sometimes it is necessary to pick up your rabbit, however, such as for nail clipping or vet checks. So here are some useful tips.

It will help put your rabbit at ease if you approach your rabbit slowly and get down on your knees before picking it up. Petting the rabbit could also have a calming effect.

When you feel confident your rabbit is ready to be picked up, scoop it up by placing a hand under the torso and pull your bunny close to your body. I always tell people "put it's belly against yours". This allows you to have better control of the rabbit and it is also a comfortable position for the rabbit.

Support the rabbit's hindquarters. Your bunny needs to feel secure in your arms.

If your rabbit struggles while your pick it up, hold it firmly and cover the face and eyes with your hand till the rabbit calms down. Your rabbit may think the better alternative to being held is to leap from your arms, but this can cause serious injury. Be patient with your rabbit. This takes practice. You'll get it.

When putting your rabbit down on the ground or in its cage, slowly squat down while holding your bunny close, and let him/her down gently.

When your putting your rabbit in it's cage put it in butt first. This will help to keep the rabbit calm while being put away.

Your rabbit may respond with a thump or may kick up it's hind legs at you while scampering away. It's nothing personal, it just disapproves of being picked up.

[TAKE CARE QUIZ] [back to care]