It can be hard to bond with a pet that is inherently timid and distrusting of you. When all you want is to snuggle and play with your bunny, it quickly becomes frustrating when they run away from you and hide behind the couch until you go away. Because of this initial disconnect and rejection, it can be tempting to feel like giving up on your bunny.
But if you learn the right way to bond with them, you will see that they have a distinct personality, display a range of emotions, and are perfectly capable of becoming your best buddy and a beloved family member! Here are my tips on how to bond with your bunny:
1. Be patient
Being patient is the golden rule when it comes to bonding with your rabbit. Bunnies are prey animals, which means their brains are hardwired to be afraid of anything that could be perceived as a predator – including you. Additionally, they are going to be especially alert and defensive in an unfamiliar environment, such as in a new home. This is simply the way bunnies are, and even though you know they are safe, they don’t know that yet.
So, be patient! Bond with your rabbit at their pace and do not force anything. They need time to adjust and to realize that you aren’t a threat after all. Once they start getting used to their new environment and to you, bonding will become easier and easier. Just remember to let your bunny take the reins and do not rush the bonding process.
2. Get on their level
Bunnies feel most confident when they have all four paws safely on the ground. So, the best way to interact with your bunny is to literally get on their level: have a seat on the floor! This way, you are meeting your bunny in a space where they feel comfortable and in control. Also, since bunnies are often prey to birds that swoop in from a height, you instantly make yourself appear less threatening when you get down on their level.
In the early stages, they may not engage with you right away (or at all) but if you sit patiently and make a habit of prioritizing floor-time, they will eventually realize that you are not dangerous and will come to say hello. Before you reach out to pet them, let them sniff your hand so they aren’t caught off guard.
3. Food
As is the case for many of us, food is the way to your bunny’s heart! Showing your rabbit that you are a food source is the quickest way to tell them that you are a friend, not a foe. Make sure to do your research about what fruits, vegetables, and treats are safe for your rabbit, then sit on the floor and offer the food to them.
At first, you will probably have to distance yourself from the food before they start munching. But as they begin to positively associate you with their favourite snacks, they will become more and more comfortable approaching you to get the treat. Eventually, you will be able to hand-feed them!
4. When you finally have their trust, do not betray it
Do not take your rabbit’s trust for granted; it doesn’t take much for their prey animal instinct to kick in, and they will learn to distrust you much faster than they learned to trust you. This reaction is part of the reason why you can’t play with rabbits in the same aggressive, teasing way that people might play with other pets, such as dogs. Even if you are well-intentioned and think an interaction is simply playful, your bunny may interpret it in a much more negative light.
For example, people may think they are harmlessly playing if they chase their rabbit around, hold and move them in “funny” ways, or somehow confine them to see if they can escape. While people may not see these activities as scary, a bunny definitely does.
The bonding process with your bunny is ongoing; they need to know with absolute certainty that they are safe with you, and it is up to you to continuously prove this to them. So, remember to always be gentle with your bunny and to interact with them in a way that you know is enjoyable for both of you.
5. Recognize that bonding is a two-way street
Even though bonding should be done at your bunny’s pace and in a way that gives them control, there are still plenty of things you can do to establish a bond on your side. Start by simply getting to know your rabbit: make a point of learning about their personality, their likes and dislikes, and their unique habits. Appreciating your rabbit as an individual makes it much easier to form an attachment to them.
Personally, I found that regularly cuddling my rabbit was one of the most important activities for strengthening our bond. When I first made a habit of cuddling him, he trusted me enough to let me hold him but was still apprehensive about relaxing next to me; he would never fully let his guard down. Now, he happily jumps on me for cuddles, lies down next to me, and will even take a nap as I pet him!
If you are having trouble bonding with your rabbit, please reach out to your local rabbit rescue for assistance before giving up on your rabbit.
Article written by:
Jane Billingsley
Jane is a long-time rabbit owner and animal-lover. She has owned rabbits for most of her life, and is passionate about advocating for the ethical treatment of rabbits and animals in general. She is currently working towards a Bachelor of Arts degree at the University of Alberta, and hopes to pursue further education specializing in animal welfare and conservation. Outside of school, Jane spends her time writing, playing soccer, and cuddling with her bunny, Prince.
