If you have a bunny as a pet, there are many things to learn about taking care of them. If you have not learned about how to handle your rabbit, you may upset or even make them sick if you do it wrong. Rabbits are the third most popular companion mammal behind dogs and cats but there isn’t as much information for owners as other pets. In this article, you will learn how to handle your bunny safely.

Rabbits are prey

In the wild, rabbits are a prey species who do not hunt other animals. As prey, rabbits have a timid, if cautious, demeanor, which makes them good pets. This does not mean that bunnies want to be picked up. They actually hate it. Sometimes it is necessary to pick up your rabbit to move him or her, change their bedding or to receive medical care. How a rabbit is picked up and held can have an impact on their welfare. If they begin to see you as a threat, it will make it hard to keep them as a pet.

By following these simple rules, you can safely pick up your pet rabbit and hold him or her in a friendly way.

1. Be gentle and soothing

Spend time just stroking your pet rabbit gently without picking them up at first. Place a nice treat out for them like a plate of greens and soothingly pet them while they eat. Don’t make any sudden moves that may cause your pet anxiety. Sit on the floor while petting them instead of towering over them.

2. Stay close to the ground

When picking up your rabbit and holding them, stay close to the ground. If they try to escape, they will not fall a long way should you lose your grip on them. Stay at ground level with all bunny activity if you can.

3. Adults only

New bunnies should only be picked up and held by adults at first. Children can gently pet the bunny and they can get to know each other. Kids should be instructed to speak in quiet voices and to move slowly around the bunny.

4. Small steps

Practice lifting your bunny by placing one palm under the chest of the rabbit and lifting its front legs off the ground for a moment before settling it back down. Reward the bunny with a treat after lifting practice.

5. Hold gently but firmly

When the time comes to pick up your rabbit, use a gentle but firm grip. Support the rabbit’s back and hindquarters at all times. Hold all four of the rabbit’s feet against your body. Remain close to the ground when you pick up your rabbit. Rise to stand only when you feel your rabbit is relaxed and not going to try to wiggle away.

6. Read your rabbit

It is important not to use a heavy grip on your bunny when you hold him or her. Make sure your bunny is comfortable and not trying to escape before attempting to move them. If you sense your bunny is going to try to escape, crouch on the ground to limit their fall if they wiggle free.

7. Watch for signs of stress or fear

If your bunny starts hiding or becomes aggressive, talk to your vet about their behavior. These are signs that they fear you or that they are stressed. You may have to see a bunny expert to train your friend.

How NOT to handle your bunny

Never pick up your pet bunny by the ears! You could severely injure your rabbit if you pick him or her up by the ears, tail or legs.

Never “scruff” your bunny by picking them up by the back of the neck as this makes them think you are an enemy.

Never hold your bunny on his or her back, which can make your bunny go into a trance that can be harmful to them.

Your bunny is a smart, playful pet and can be taught tricks and behavior with positive rewards. By handling them with care and a gentle touch, you can bond with your bunny for many years of companionship.