Agriculture Reference
In-Depth Information
mounting each other and having subordinate rabbits groom more important rabbits in the
group.
Your rabbit might make the following vocalizations:
Grunting/growling:
Anger or disapproval at some behavior. Your rabbit might follow this
sound by biting or scratching. This means to back off or leave the rabbit alone.
Honking:
This soft sound may be heard during courtship. Your rabbit may circle while mak-
ing this sound. It means: “Hey, how about you and me getting together?”
Screaming:
If your rabbit is screaming, it means your rabbit is terrified or in great pain.
Snorting:
Snorting means your rabbit wants attention. Your rabbit is not happy about
something. (Or your rabbit could be sick.) Your rabbit likely wants some petting or feels bad.
Tooth clicking or “purring”:
The easy grinding or clicking of teeth means that your rabbit is
happy. Your rabbit is relaxed and comfortable.
Tooth grinding:
Real tooth grinding means your rabbit is in pain or distress. Your rabbit
needs help right away.
Whimpering, squealing, and squeaks:
These sounds mean your rabbit is in pain or hurt.
However, some squeaking in a pleasant situation can mean that your rabbit is pleased.
Rabbits exhibit all kinds of body language that humans can learn to read to know what their
rabbit is feeling. A rabbit may race wildly through the house, which usually indicates the rab-
bit feels good and is playing. Rabbits can take up a boxing position, which indicates they are
willing to fight. They may “chin” or rub their faces on things to mark their territory. Rabbits
also chew, dig, and display other inherited behaviors. Rabbits can learn some words or at least
understand what you are saying or want. It all depends on how closely you bond with your
rabbit.
Selling Pet Rabbits
Rabbits are a popular pet in the U.S., so many people would like to have their own rabbit. If
you are breeding rabbits as pets, you can find ways to sell young rabbits. However, it is also
true that many rabbits do end up in rabbit rescues and animal shelters each year, so you should
use some care about selling your rabbits.
