Why is my rabbit not affectionate?

If your rabbit doesn't enjoy being held, it may or may not be part of their nature. Some bunnies cannot overcome their fear of being restrained by a human. This could be because they never learned that handling is pleasurable while young. They may also have endured a bad experience that put them off for life.
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How do I get my rabbit to be more affectionate?

How to Gain a Rabbit's Trust and Affection
  1. Rabbits like to call the shots. Sit on the floor, and let your rabbit approach you. ...
  2. Rabbits like to keep all four paws on the ground. ...
  3. Many rabbits do not like to be hugged. ...
  4. Rabbits need near-constant attention. ...
  5. Rabbits love routine. ...
  6. Feed your rabbit her favorite foods.
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Why is my rabbit not affectionate anymore?

If your rabbit doesn't seem to like you anymore, this usually isn't because of something you did. Common reasons for unfriendliness in rabbits include illness, changes in their environment, loud noises, strong smells, and stress.
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Do rabbits get more cuddly with age?

Middle Age

Rabbits tend to become a little less active by the time they reach this age. It is said that rabbits also become more affectionate during this period and they will start to trust you more.
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How do you know if your rabbit doesn't like you?

Does your rabbit really hate you?
  1. Aggressive rabbits. A rabbit that swats, lunges or bites people does not necessarily hate them. ...
  2. Rabbits that run away. ...
  3. Rabbits that won't cuddle. ...
  4. Holding your rabbit. ...
  5. You're too loud. ...
  6. Too much unwanted attention. ...
  7. You smell like other animals. ...
  8. Your rabbit is territorial.
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10 SIGNS YOUR RABBIT LOVES YOU



How do I know if my bunny is depressed?

Be especially mindful of any of the following behaviours:
  1. Chewing cage bars, if they're kept in a hutch.
  2. Pulling at their fur and over-grooming - or not grooming at all.
  3. A change in feeding or toilet habits.
  4. Drinking a lot more.
  5. Repeated circling or pacing up and down.
  6. Biting and destructive behaviours.
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Why won't my bunny let me hold her?

Unfortunately many baby rabbits miss out on this socialisation before they go to their new home, or they may have bad experiences later on that make them fear being picked up. When a rabbit kicks out and tries to stop you picking him up, it's because he is frightened.
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Why do rabbits ignore me?

Why do my rabbits seem to ignore me? Rabbits are a prey species so they instinctively avoid drawing attention to themselves. The mistake many first-time rabbit owners make is to impose themselves on their pets – to a rabbit, even a hand reaching overhead can feel like a predator approaching.
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Why does my rabbit run away when I try to pet him?

Rabbits typically run away from people because they are afraid or angry. The rabbit has learned from past experiences that humans will chase them, pick them up, or trap them into a small cage. Naturally, their instincts will see people as dangerous predators that need to be avoided.
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How do you tell if your rabbit loves you?

7 Ways to Know Your Rabbit Loves You
  1. They groom you. Rabbits will groom you as a way to show their affection. ...
  2. They circle your feet. ...
  3. They constantly want to be pet. ...
  4. They lay next to you. ...
  5. They binky when they see you. ...
  6. They sit on your lap. ...
  7. They purr when you pet them.
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Do bunnies like to be kissed?

Some rabbits enjoy being kissed. It's akin to being groomed, which is a source of pleasure. If your rabbit responds appropriately, it's safe to kiss her.
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How long does it take for a bunny to get used to you?

Every bunny is different, however in our experience it generally takes around 6 months for a bunny to finally feel settled and happy in their new home. Bunnies that don't appear to have settled and relaxed may be unhappy. You need to explore the possible reasons why.
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Will my rabbit cuddle with me?

Most rabbits love to be cuddled and stroked when approached in the right way. Few like being held or carried as being so high up from the ground makes them feel insecure, however, many will happily sit on your lap or snuggle up next to you for a cuddle.
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What is the most affectionate pet?

15 Most Affectionate Dog Breeds
  • Labradoodle. ...
  • Newfoundland. ...
  • Chihuahua. ...
  • Old English Sheepdog. ...
  • Bichon Frisé ...
  • Irish Wolfhound. ...
  • Pug. ...
  • Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Truth be told, you might have a hard time getting this guy out of bed.
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How can you tell if a bunny is happy?

You will know if your rabbit is happy because they will:
  1. Lie down with a relaxed body.
  2. Lie down with a stretched body, still relaxed.
  3. Lie down with a fully extended body, still relaxed.
  4. Jumping into the air all 4 paws off the ground.
  5. Have a healthy appetite.
  6. Calm and quiet.
  7. Inquisitive.
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Why does my rabbit not like attention?

Just like people, rabbit's are not meant to live alone. Rabbits who never get enough attention and are left in isolation all day will end up becoming lonely and depressed. They'll stop being curious and active, and instead they'll sit around all day with no interest in the world around them.
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Why does my rabbit not like being stroked?

Many rabbits find handling frightening. As prey animals, their survival instincts are strong. While being handled and cuddled, they sense that they cannot escape. You'll need to build a bond of love and trust to help them overcome this instinctive fear.
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Is my bunny bored?

Signs that your rabbit might be bored

Rabbits might start chewing things that they shouldn't, destroying their pen, or trying to dig out. They might also start to over-groom themselves to give them something to do.
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How do I know if my rabbit is stressed?

Signs of stress
  1. appearing nervous (freezing, hunched up with ears flat against the body)
  2. being excessively jumpy and watchful (bulging eyes)
  3. being aggressive to people or other rabbits, particularly if the behaviour is unusual.
  4. being aggressive when handled.
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How do I get my rabbit to like me?

How to Gain a Bunny's Trust
  1. Tasty Treats. It's no shock that food is the way to a bunny's heart, as humans are often that way, too. ...
  2. Soothing Voice. The way you talk to your bunny also might be effective for getting him to trust you. ...
  3. Isolated Environment. ...
  4. Increased Physical Contact. ...
  5. Murmuring Sounds. ...
  6. Treat Him Right.
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How do you calm a scared bunny?

If your rabbit got spooked and is showing signs of fear, you can comfort your rabbit to help them calm down. By gently talking to your rabbit and petting them, you can let them know there is nothing to be afraid of. If that doesn't work, you can also use treats and toys to distract your rabbit.
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How long does it take for my rabbit to trust me?

Speak to her when you give her food so she associates you with good things. This could take weeks or months but persist and she will accept your presence as a good thing. My rabbit is a house rabbit but spends plenty of time outside.
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Do bunnies hold grudges?

Depending on the severity of the offence, a rabbit can hold a grudge from hours to several days. Sometimes, a simple stroke on the forehead or an apologetic treat can remedy a miffed bunny, but if your rabbit is truly offended, they can sulk for quite some time!
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