| Understanding
your Rabbit |
Pet Care page |
| |
Reprinted from articles at www.adoptarabbit.org |
| Affection |
|
| Head down / presenting: |
I want to be groomed by my partner
or petted by my human. |
| Licking: |
I really want to be your friend. I really like
you |
| Nose nudging: |
I need attention. Please give me some pets and
head rubs. |
| Pulling on pant leg: |
Please pay attention to me. |
| Contentment |
|
Tooth clicking:
|
Mmmmm. I like this. |
 |
Lying stretched out, feet behind:
|
Life is good. |
| Flopping over on side or back: |
Life is very good. |
Sleeping:
|
I need my rest. |
| Ears back and relaxed: |
I’m secure and happy. |
| Curiosity |
|
| Ears forward: |
I hear something over there. What is it? |
| Ears forward, body leaning forward: |
Do I dare get any closer? |
| Sitting up on haunches: |
If I could just see over that box. |
| Defence or Aggression |
|
| Ears back, chin forward, tail up: |
Better watch out! |
| Grunting and growling: |
I’m not too happy with what is going on. |
| Biting: |
I mean business! |
| Charging: |
I’ll get you or Ha! I am just bluffing. |
| Batting with front paws: |
Stop that. I don’t like it. |
| Excitement, Happiness,
Joy |
|
| Circling human: |
You are my love object. |
| Running and leaping/twisting in midair
(binkying): |
This freedom is wonderful! |
| Quick shake of head: |
So good to see you! |
| Pushing or tossing objects: |
I’m in a playful mood. |
| Fear, Displeasure |
|
| Thumping hind leg: |
Something’s not right here. |
| Freezing: |
I hope no one sees me. |
| Running: |
I have to get out of here quick. |
| Hiding: |
I am not sure it is safe to come out. |
| Eyes bulging, third eyelid visible: |
I don’t like this, not at all. |
| Nipping: |
Please put me down. |
| Pain |
|
| Loud teeth grinding or gnashing: |
Something hurts a lot. |
Hunched up and not moving during
regular activity and eating times: |
I feel terrible. My stomach hurts. |
| Eyes bulging: |
I am not a happy camper right now. |
| Territorial Actions |
|
| Chinning: |
This is mine, this is mine, this is mine… |
| Scattered droppings: |
I want everyone to know that this is my kingdom. |
| |
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