How do I discipline my rabbit for biting?

If your rabbit nips or bites you (sometimes rabbits nip when they want something or want your attention - it's not always aggressive): give a high-pitched squeal as soon as she nips or bites you. This will let her know that she hurt you and she should not nip or bite you.

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Why does my bunny keep biting me?

A biting rabbit is usually a very scared rabbit, and this may be due to one of the following reasons: They have not bonded with you, either because they are new to the household, or this vital process has not been completed yet. Attempts to pick up your rabbit may lead to several loud thumps as a warning.

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How do you tell a rabbit to not do something?

Always be consistent when disciplining rabbits and don't expect too much from them. Here are two humane things to try if your rabbit is being a bit ornery: Shout “no” or clap your hands. Thump your foot, like a rabbit, to convey your displeasure.

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How do you show dominance to a rabbit?

Pay attention to the pecking order.

Give the dominant rabbit their treats first and give them their first choice of toys. You can provide equal treatment to the second rabbit, but you do want to pay attention to who gets stuff first.

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How do you fix bad rabbit behavior?

Here are some tips for what you can do to discipline your rabbit:
  1. Voice Training. When your bun does something he shouldn't be, use his name and say 'NO', firmly and sternly. ...
  2. Nose down. Take your index finger and firmly but gently push his nose down toward the floor while saying 'Oliver, NO'. ...
  3. Time out. ...
  4. Water. ...
  5. Squeal.

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Get Your Rabbit to Stop Chewing Up Your House (and other disciplining techniques!)

22 related questions found

What happens if I hit my bunny?

No, she won't hate you forever. She might be scared for a little bit, but she'll be fine.

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What not to do when handling a rabbit?

Remember: Hold rabbits gently but firmly - ensure one hand supports their back and hindquarters at all times. Help them feel secure by holding all four feet against your body. Never pick rabbits up by their ears - this would be extremely stressful and is highly likely to injure them.

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How do rabbits express anger?

Grunting: Grunting noises are angry reactions towards another rabbit or a person and should be heeded as a warning to back off; otherwise the rabbit might escalate by scratching or biting. Rabbits grunt when they feel threatened or territorial. Thumping: Thumping is an attention getting behavior.

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What do rabbits hate to do?

Smells. Rabbits don't like the smell of predators or death. That's why many gardeners swear by everything from sprinklings of human or animal hair (get it from your hairdresser or animal groomer) to human urine (easier to for men and gardeners with fences to apply).

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Do bunnies show affection by biting?

Affection. Not all biting is a problem, and rabbits have been known to give little 'love-nips' as a show of affection to owners. It may be down to the individual owner if it hurts and is a problem, or is an endearing aspect of their personality.

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How do you know if your rabbit doesn't like you?

If they are sitting upright and their front paws are 'boxing' at you, they are likely very unhappy. Vocalising. Rabbits don't tend to make much noise and when they do it's a sign they're feeling very threatened. You may hear them grunting or growling and in extreme cases, they can scream.

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What offends rabbits?

Some rabbits will also get upset with you if you touch their stuff. Cleaning out the rabbit enclosure or rearranging their furniture can lead to an upset bunny. They may try reorganizing on their own to get everything back to normal, or they might just sulk for a while until they get over the change.

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What do rabbits fear most?

What are rabbits afraid of? 'Rabbits are naturally fearful of anything coming from above, like their predators would. If we bend down to pick them up, that action is scary,' says Rosie. 'They also dislike being lifted up, as that's what happens when they're in a predator's mouth.

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What scares rabbits the most?

Scare them away. Lights, shiny aluminum pie tins, and motion scare devices can be enough to ward off rabbits, at least for a time. Dogs and cats running free in the yard are a great deterrent, too.

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What are signs of aggression in rabbits?

A: Rabbits usually show aggression towards humans (and other rabbits) because of fear or frustration, or because they want to defend their territory. This can include nipping, biting and thumping their feet loudly on the ground; some rabbits also scream, which can be unsettling.

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Is my rabbit trying to dominate me?

The first thought in a rabbit's mind when encountering another rabbit is "are you superior or inferior to me?" Classic signs of dominance are mounting (this can be done by either a male or female), chasing, circling and, if the other rabbit doesn't submit, nipping and fur pulling.

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Why is my rabbit being aggressive?

Rabbit aggression towards humans usually means they're scared. These fears can result in biting. A rabbit could also bite because they're poorly, or because their hormones are raging. Happy rabbits aren't generally aggressive but even the happiest bunnies may lunge, bite or give a sharp nip if they feel threatened.

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Where should I not touch my rabbit?

Rabbits generally have a few sensitive spots where they dislike being touched - their dewlap (under the chin), whiskers and feet. Some rabbits are also extremely sensitive about their ears or tail.

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How often should I pick up my rabbit?

Little and often is the key, a couple of goes of whichever stage you are at a few times per day is plenty. Don't make all your interaction about learning to be picked up; grooming your rabbit, playing with toys and just hanging out in the same space will all help your bond and build trust.

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How much time do rabbits need out of their cage?

Rabbits like to play and need plenty of exercise to stay healthy and happy. Ideally you want to provide them with up to 4 hours daily of supervised time out of their cage. Rabbits are subject to depression and poor health if they're not provided with daily interaction and mental stimulation.

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Can I spray my rabbit with water?

Rabbit spritzer

You can use a plant spray/mist bottle to gently spray water on your rabbit's ears which can help them to cool down.

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Is My bunny mad at me?

A rabbit who is angry will quickly twitch their tail up and down. Beware the rabbit holding their tail up, it is frequently followed by spraying. Rabbits who are not spayed and neutered will spread their scent by spraying everything in sight. They may also do this when they are upset or simply dislike a person.

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Why do rabbits misbehave?

Rabbits are actually very intelligent, curious animals, and need plenty of stimulation to truly thrive. Bunnies that don't get enough time outside their cages can become grumpy, and end up misbehaving. Be sure your pet gets at least three hours of free playtime outside her home!

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