Rabbit Behaviour

Question 1

What is wild rabbits lifestyle?

Answer 1

• social, burrowing herbivores
• prey species, so alert to potential danger
• evolved to be vigilant, lightweight and fast moving
• highly efficient digestive system allowing minimum time above ground
• easily frightened, initial response is to freeze
• only tend to fight if there is no escape route

Question 2

What are abnormal behaviours indicators of?

Answer 2

• poor wellbeing
• signs include floor chewing, bar biting, fur chewing, and stereotypical pacing patterns

Question 3

What is recommended to reduce aggressive behaviours?

Answer 3

• neutering
• provide a large and enriched cage
• provide multiple hiding places and escape routes

Question 4

Why do rabbits hide?

Answer 4

• when they perceive a potential threat
• when performing a behaviour where they feel more vulnerable
• when there are strange noises or people
• to keep warm
• they could be stressed

Question 5

Why do rabbits rear up on their hind legs?

Answer 5

• when they are investigating their environment
• when they are reaching for something

Question 6

What is abnormal behaviour in rabbits?

Answer 6

• they show subtle changes in behaviour to indicate when they are in pain or frightened
• they make a variety of sounds including grunts, growls, purrs and if extremely frightened they will scream
• they have a range of body, face and ear postures that indicate rank, pleasure, pain, fear or aggression

Question 7

Normal behaviours seen in rabbits?

Answer 7

• important when highlighting signs of pain or discomfort
• a normal rabbit is bright, alert, active, inquisitive, has a smooth coat and a good body condition

Question 8

Signs a rabbit is unhappy?

Answer 8

• when scared they prefer to run away to a quiet and hidden location, if not possible may resort to biting
• signs include aggressiveness, restlessness, nervousness, lack of interest in food and excessive grooming

Question 9

What are underlying causes of unhappiness in rabbits?

Answer 9

• boredom
• lack of space
• to many animals in the same space
• loss of companion
• sudden noises
• the presence of predators or unfamiliar people
• the inability to perform normal behaviours

Question 10

What can cause aggression in rabbits?

Answer 10

• protecting their territory
• hormones
• pain
• fear
• protective over food
• protective over offspring

Question 11

Communication signals a rabbit is content?

Answer 11

• relaxed body
• happy hopping
• nose twitching
• clucking
• purring
• curiosity

Question 12

Communication signals a rabbit is scared ?

Answer 12

• freezing
• running and hiding
• thumping
• shaking
• growling, grunting and squealing
• flattening

Question 13

Communication signals a rabbits is angry?

Answer 13

• grunting
• biting
• kicking
• tense and up body
• showing their teeth
• boxing