Never scream at the rabbit. It will be terrified and may mistrust you in the future. Some rabbits liked to be carried, others hate it. If you can’t make your animal relaxed in your arms, leave him/her alone. If it’s essential to pick the rabbit up, such as to remove it from harm, then hold the rabbit in a towel to avoid getting your arms scratched and to help the rabbit feel safe. Rabbits are easily overwhelmed if there are too many people in the same room. Avoid loud music and flashing lights. Your rabbit needs peace and quiet. On the other hand, if your rabbit is scared, play some calming classical music. This will help them to calm down and feel more at rest.
Try to establish a regular routine of petting and talking to your rabbit. Remember that some rabbits dislike being stroked on the nose, belly or underneath their chin. Covering the rabbit’s eyes can help reduce fear. While stroking the rabbit, gently cover its eyes with your hands. [2] X Expert Source Jamie Freyer, DVMLicensed Veterinarian Expert Interview. 7 December 2021. However, some rabbits don’t like this. If your rabbit doesn’t quiet down after a few minutes, slowly remove your hand. If your rabbit is scared from loud noises around you, cover your rabbit’s ears with your hand while stroking him/her or covering his/her eyes.
Give a piece of rabbit wood bought at the pet shop. Your animal will be very tempted to chew it and it’s excellent for its teeth. If the rabbit doesn’t show any interest for the game, stop after a few minutes and look for what’s stressing it.
Put a small piece of fruit on your hand and approach your rabbit gently. The rabbit will slowly understand that humans can be trusted. Never offer them sweets or bread. Avoid tomato leaves and potatoes. They are highly toxic for rabbits.
Ask your veterinarian to make a visit to your house. There is no need to add more stress to your rabbit with a car ride. Don’t medicate your rabbit without having consulted a specialist. You might kill your animal. If you have more than one pet, quarantine the agitated rabbit to avoid contagion. Wash your hands and take care of your personal hygiene. If you haven’t been vaccinated against rabies and have been bitten by your rabbit, immediately go to the hospital. [5] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source Also wash your hands before handling the rabbit to get rid of the smell of cats, dogs, or other animals you have touched which predate on rabbits.
Hiding in its den and refusing to get out. A sudden change of behaviour. Your rabbit becomes aggressive or wants to hide. Chewing the bars of its cage. Over-grooming or changing its toileting habits. Over-eating and over-drinking. Refusing to move or circling its cage. Stomping his/her hind legs[7] X Expert Source Jamie Freyer, DVMLicensed Veterinarian Expert Interview. 7 December 2021. Wide eyes
The most common predators, aside cats and dogs, are foxes, ferrets and all birds of prey. [9] X Research source Rabbits have an excellent sense of smell. [10] X Research source They might identify a danger before you. If you’re outside with your rabbit and (s)he looks afraid, don’t take any chance. Take your rabbit in your arms and place him/her in a safe place. If your rabbit has been chased by another animal, bring him/her to safety and reassure him/her.
Have an artificial tunnel in the cage and/or in the room where the rabbit plays. You can find one in a good pet shop. A cardboard box that is larger than your rabbit makes a good hidey too. If they go out, make sure that they have a place to hide but don’t let them escape.
