Photo by Eric Ward
If you are not new to pet rabbit care, you are familiar with how many body languages they can communicate with their owners. It’s amazing how unique rabbits are with their binkies, zoomies, and other actions with positive meanings. But what about if rabbits thump their feet?
Some new bunny owners might not be familiar with this rabbit body language that’s why we created this blog to understand more about why rabbits thump their feet. What is the reason behind the action?
7 Reasons Why Rabbits Thump Their Feet
Let’s get into it!
1. Warning
Rabbits thump to warn other rabbits about what’s coming. It’s rabbits’ instinct to thump their feet to warn other rabbits when predators are around.
2. Frustrated
A rabbit might thump its feet when annoyed by its owner. If you fail to pet your bunny when it’s asking for it, it does the action of thumping.
3. Annoyed
This reason is the opposite of number 2. Rabbits thump if you give them too much attention and they want you to stop, but you don’t. Also, they thump when you give them attitude so be careful with your actions.
4. Senses danger/Scared
Another reason rabbits thump their feet is that they are scared and feel threatened. Make sure there are no openings in the house for predators. Check the windows because they might be looking at a random cat peeking. If you have other pets, don’t leave them inside the house roaming freely if you know your bunny doesn’t like them. You can put children’s safety gates in each part of the house.
5. Anger
Thumping is also a sign of aggression in rabbits. This might be accompanied by attacking, so be careful. If you don’t want to provoke your bunny, make sure you don’t give it a reason to do it. Provide a safe and fun environment for your pet.
6. No Treats
Oh no! You shouldn’t forget this one. Aside from licking you when rabbits want something, they also thump their feet for food. Offer your bunny a treat when it thumps, but don’t force it to eat because it might run.
7. Unfamiliar Pet/human
Rabbits are territorial pets, especially when they’re familiar with the place but not with other pets or humans visiting. Unfamiliar things might cause them to thump because rabbits think they will be a threat and would enter the territory.
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 Rabbits Thump Their Feet
There you go, bunny parents! Now that you know the reasons why rabbits thump their feet, ensure that you would check on their actions frequently to see if they’re doing fine.
It’s better if you see them do binkies and zoomies!
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