Photo by Petar Starčević
It's not gross when rabbits lick you. There are meanings behind their actions, like licking and grooming. It doesn't only happen between two bonded rabbits; they also do that to their owners. Here are reasons why rabbits do that.
6 Reasons Why Rabbits Lick You
Rabbits licking their owners are normal. Here are the reasons why:
Affection
The first reason your rabbit licks you is that it shows affection. Your rabbit loves you when it grooms you. It trusts you and feels safe when you're around.
Attention
Rabbits often nip or nudge their owners if they want attention. Sometimes, your rabbit wants your attention but shows it by licking you.
When you're sitting on the couch, it may come beside you and will start licking your hand. That means you should pet it, and you're obliged to pet it. Don't walk away; you should pet it.
Groom
If your rabbit licks you, it returns the favor after you pet it. If your bunny is content with your petting and loves it, it will do the same to you.
Boredom
When your rabbit is bored and doesn't want to play with its toys, it chooses to lick you instead.
Treats
You don't want to skip this part. Treats are rabbits' favorite. If your bunny comes closer to you and licks your hand, it might want some delicious treat.
Greeting You ‘Hello’
Rabbits have a different way of saying Hello. They show different body languages that not all owners understand at first. Licking might be your rabbit's way of greeting you.
Why does your bunny lick you and then bite?
If your bunny softly nips you after licking, it's normal. It's still part of the many reasons mentioned above, but it will be a different situation if it bites you.
Don't let your bunny bite you because it might get used to action and will do it again. Do you want a love-hate relationship with your bun?
If other people visit your home, tell them you have a bunny that licks so they won't be surprised. Your bunny might get hurt if a person defends himself from the action.
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 Why a Rabbit Licks You
It's interesting to know the reasons why a rabbit licks you. Today, we have learned that their actions, like licking mean affection, needing attention, grooming, wanting treats, and greetings.
Rabbits have so many different and unique ways of communicating. They're not like other pets, but all pets are unique and amazing in their ways.
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