Understanding Rabbit Behaviour - RSPCA

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1. Home
2. Advice and welfare
3. Pets
4. Rabbits
5. Behaviour
6. Understanding rabbit behaviour

Behaviour What does my rabbit's behaviour mean?

A rabbit's body language can be subtle, so it's not always easy to understand how a rabbit is feeling. Use this guide to help you recognise important body language signals. If you're concerned about your rabbit's behaviour, speak to a vet first. They may be able to advise or refer you to an animal behaviourist.

Understanding your rabbit's feelings

A good place to start is to look at your rabbit's ears. If they're close together, facing upwards and pointing outwards, your rabbit is likely to be relaxed and happy. If they're worried, their ears will be flattened against their back. You can also look at your rabbit's eyes and body posture, as well as their behaviour – for example, a rabbit may be anxious if they're hiding.

A happy rabbit

These rabbits are relaxed and happy.

Rabbits 1–3 are lying down. Their ears are close together, facing slightly backwards and pointing outwards. Eyes may be partially closed

Rabbit has relaxed body posture

Their legs are tucked under their body.

Rabbit’s body is relaxed and extended

Their front paws are pointing forward and rear legs are stuck out sideways.

Rabbit has a fully extended, relaxed body

Their back legs are stretched out behind them and their front paws are pointing forward.

Rabbit is jumping into the air

All four paws are off the ground, and they twist in mid-air before landing.

A worried rabbit

These rabbits are telling you they’re uncomfortable and don’t want you near them.

Rabbit is in a crouched position

The rabbit’s muscles are tense and their head is held flat to the ground. Pupils are dilated, and their ears are wide apart and flattened against their back.

Rabbit is hiding

Rabbits who are worried or anxious may hide.

An angry or very unhappy rabbit

These rabbits are not happy and want you to stay away or go away.

Rabbit turns and moves away

The rabbit flicks their back feet. Their ears may be held against their back.

Rabbit is sitting up on their back legs

The rabbit has their front paws raised, displaying boxing behaviour, and they may be growling. Ears are pointed upwards and facing outwards.

Rabbit is standing and tense

The rabbit’s back legs are thumping on the ground. Ears are pointing upwards and slightly turned outwards, facial muscles are tense, and their pupils are dilated. Tail is raised.

Rabbit’s body is down with weight towards the back.

The rabbit’s head is tilted upwards and their mouth is open with teeth visible. Ears are held back and lowered, and their pupils are dilated. Tail is raised.

Image credits: [Lili Chin]

Find out more

Find or call a vet

All pets need to be registered with a veterinary practice, where you can take them for routine health care and advice, as well as any emergency treatment.

Find a clinical animal behaviourist

If you are concerned about your pet's behaviour, contact a behaviour expert.

Spot the signs of stress in your rabbits

Spot the signs of stress in your pet rabbit and what you can do to help alleviate symptoms. Hidden