Your rabbit�s behavior can seem to be a mystery and understanding it is essential for keeping your rabbit healthy and happy. Rabbits are very social animals and enjoy spending time with their care-givers. By recognizing your rabbit�s expressions, you can make the most of the time spent with your rabbit. Here are some common rabbit expressions to help you understand your rabbit�s behavior:
1. Binkies: If a rabbit is very happy, he or she will jump into the air to let you know. This jump is called a binky.
2. Dancing: Dancing occurs when a rabbit shakes and jumps. This expression helps your rabbit to express affection and love.
3. Periscoping or Climbing: Rabbit will stand on their hind legs (similar to a periscope) in order to gain height to view their surrounding area. It is also for this reason that rabbits like to climb on things.
4. Grunting: When a rabbit grunts, it means that he or she is trying to express their feelings to you. It could also mean that he or she is about to attack.
5. Squealing: This occurs when a rabbit is afraid or in pain.
6. Thumping: Rabbits will �thump� one or both hind legs if they sense that danger is imminent or when they are surprised.
7. Tiptoeing: Rabbits �tiptoe� when they are being cautious. If they come across something that they are unsure about, they will tiptoe over to it.
8. Flat: Rabbits become flat to the ground when they are afraid. This pose shows that the rabbit is timid and scared.
9. Chin Rubbing: Rabbits will rub their chins on objects and people when they are trying to mark their territory because their scent glands are under their chins. The scent cannot be smelled by humans.
10. Nipping: Rabbits nip for a variety of reasons including: to display affection, to get affection, for self defense, to attack, and more.
To find out more about your rabbit�s behavior, a book on rabbits, such as Rabbits, Animal Planet Pet Care Library, is a great resource. Check out Rabbit Mart for all of your rabbit’s needs.
