Rabbits can be wonderful pets.They require a lot of care before they will be comfortable with you.It is important to pet your rabbit for the first few times.It will be easier to pet your rabbit once you have gained trust.
Step 1: Let the rabbit know that you're on your way.
Rabbits are prey animals.If you startle them, they will run away.You should always warn your rabbit that you're approaching so he doesn't get frightened.Don't go behind the rabbit.Give your rabbit a signal if you enter the room and he's facing away from you.Light kissing noises can be made.He won't feel like you're sneaking up on him.
Step 2: As you approach your rabbit, be low to the ground.
Even if they already know you're there, rabbits can be startled by something large.If your rabbit isn't used to being handled yet, approach slowly and try to stay low.It's a good idea to avoid startling your rabbit as you approach.
Step 3: Let the rabbit come to you.
It's a good idea to grab your rabbit or force him to come over.The rabbit should come to you if you're close enough.He will want to come over to you if you allow him to move at his own pace.It will be simpler for you to pet him, play with him and pick him up.If your rabbit is new to the house, he might be hesitant to approach you.It's important that he doesn't come to you.Continue this process for a few days to make sure he is comfortable when you start petting him.
Step 4: Show the rabbit something.
Place it at eye level and off to the side.Allow the rabbit to sniff your hand.If you just got your rabbit and he isn't used to you yet, you may want to give him a treat.Hand-feeding will teach your rabbit that you aren't a threat and that he can approach you safely.
Step 5: When showing the rabbit your hand, be careful.
If you do it wrong, your rabbit could be frightened.Make sure your rabbit is comfortable and happy during this process.Give your hand to the rabbit's front end.When he sees your hand approaching, you will scare him.Rabbits can't see under their jaw or in front of their face.Bring your hand in from the side to make sure your rabbit sees it.Don't put your hand below the rabbit's nose.While presenting your hand under the jaw shows submission to dogs and cats, it has the opposite presentation in rabbits, as a dominant rabbit will approach another and demand to be groomed by the other.If you approach a nervous rabbit this way, it will make it more nervous, and if you do this to a territorial or dominant rabbit, you might get nipped.
Step 6: Before petting your rabbit, make sure he's comfortable.
Rabbits may not enjoy getting a pet unless they are ready for it.It is a sign that your rabbit is open to being a pet.Don't try to touch him until he approaches you.
Step 7: In the right places, pet your rabbit.
Rabbits can be very specific about where they are touched.Their favorite places are on the cheeks, forehead, shoulders, and back.These are areas where rabbits groom each other, so they'll appreciate you petting them here.Make sure your rabbit is happy and has a good experience by sticking with these areas.Don't try to rub their chins.Unlike cats or dogs, rabbits don't like getting their chins scratched and it puts you in easy reach to receive a bite.Try not to pet your rabbit's stomach or paws as they are vulnerable areas.
Step 8: Pick up your rabbit with care.
Rabbits need to be gradually introduced to being picked up.They have to get used to the experience.If your rabbit has never been picked up before, don't try to get him right away.Pick up a Rabbit has an explanation on how to pick him up.
Step 9: Pay attention to the rabbit's mood.
Your rabbit will tell you if he's happy.Pay close attention to the signals, because you wouldn't want your rabbit to like something.Light tooth clicking and purring indicates that your rabbit is happy.Rolling over, climbing on you, placing his head on the ground, licking, and nudging you with his nose also indicate happiness and desire for attention.If your rabbit does these things, keep petting him.Growling, grunting, and squealing are signs of fear or pain.When he gets relaxed, stop petting and put him down.Rabbits can put out their front feet like they're going to punch you.If your rabbit does this, you should leave him alone because it means it wants to look at something higher up and needs a better view.Let your rabbit go if he tries to get away.It will make it worse if he is forced to play.Let him rest before he tries to play again.
Step 10: When you're done, make sure to get your rabbit back in his cage.
Rabbits can be defiant and resist going into their cages.If it's an emergency, you should only force him into his cage if you pick him up abruptly.Rabbits will usually go into their cages on their own.Place a treat in the cage if you're in a hurry.It's important that the cage is set up correctly so your rabbit is comfortable going back in.If you want to know how to set up your rabbit's cage and what treats are safe to give him, read Raise a Healthy Bunny.Don't force him out of the cage.Rabbits like to have a place to retreat to.They will come out on their own when they want to play.If you suspect that your rabbit may be hurt or sick, leave him alone.Let him come out when he wants to.