Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko
Who can resist an adorable bunny? When you see a bunny, you might want to pet it because it is fluffy. There are so many ways you can show your love for your bunny, including giving treats, playing, and petting. That's one of their favorites!
But as we always say, bunnies are sometimes sensitive pets. There are things you do for them that they hate and there are things they love. Bunnies even have rules regarding petting, so let's make sure you know all about them to avoid having an upset and unhappy bunny.
Do Aggressive Bunnies Love to Be Petted?
Most people think all bunnies run away when you try to pet them. Even aggressive bunnies love to be petted when you know how to handle their attitude. Petting is one way of making a bunny feel secure when it's anxious or scared.
There is a correct way to do it so you wouldn't add to your bunny's anxiety level. Some bunnies might be scared of petting at first because they might have had a terrible handling experience before, but that can always change once they have the right owner.
How to Pet a Bunny?
1. Always make sure your rabbit knows that you are present. Bunnies are very alert, so you must not scare them by suddenly showing yourself. Move slowly until your bunny can see you.
2. Stay on your bunny's level/sit on the ground. You shouldn't be towering over your bunny because you will look like a predator if that happens.
3. Show your hand to your bunny. As you are sitting on the floor, wait for your bunny to come closer to you. Show your hand and let your bunny sniff it whenever it wants to. You can also use some treats and do hand-feeding.
4. Make sure the bunny is calm and comfortable. You can start petting your bunny once it becomes more comfortable with your presence.
3 Ways To Pet Your Bunny
There are places your bunny wants to be petted. It's their forehead, cheeks, and the back of their neck or behind their ears. These parts are very relaxing for bunnies. You can also give a back massage tracing their spine gently.
NOTE: Do not pet your bunny on its tail/butt, chin, belly, and feet. Be careful on these parts because this might make your bunny run away and not want to be petted for a couple of days.
Disclaimer: We are not professional veterinarians or medical doctors. We created this blog based on our experiences with pet rabbits, volunteered hours in the rabbit shelter, extensive pet product research, and experienced peers. The purpose of this blog is to provide information about properly taking care of rabbits. Please know that it is still best to visit the vet regularly. For medical emergencies, contact a rabbit-savvy vet. Always observe your rabbits around new products or environmental changes.
Final Thoughts on Ways to Pet Your Bunny
Be careful in touching your bunny. A bunny massage is nice, but it must be at the right place and time. Why should time be considered? Because there are moments when bunnies want to rest alone and not be petted by someone. Read your bunny's body language. If your bunny moves closer and starts nudging you, try to pet it.