Why Is My Rabbit Shaking And Breathing Fast - Causes And Solutions

It is not normal for rabbits to shake and begin breathing fast. Depending on the situation, it is most likely due to fear. Rabbits usually shake and begin breathing fast when they are scared. This could be due to a variety of different situations. Here are a couple of examples:

You've picked them up when they didn't want to be held

The first and most common reason for a rabbit to shake and breathe fast is because they've been picked up or handled when they didn't want to be. We must understand that in the wild rabbits are prey. They use their amazing hearing and strong legs to detect and escape predators. Therefore, when they are picked up into the air, like a predator would do in the wild, it's understandable for them to fear for their safety.

This is why it's so important to bond with your rabbit before picking them up. It's always best to lower ourselves to their level in order to interact with them. This way, we don't come off as threatening as we could, due to our size in comparison to our little rabbit. In addition, creating a safe environment where they feel secure can significantly reduce their anxiety.

Someone new is in the house and invading their space

Another situation that may have frightened your rabbit is if someone new came to your home. The simple presence of a stranger could frighten some rabbits, however, many times it is because this person has made a sudden movement or has tried to come too close to your rabbit before your rabbit has had time to observe the stranger.

It could especially scare your rabbit if the stranger tries to hold or lift your rabbit. Therefore, remember to go slow. Have them first sniff your new friend. Then, your friend could sit or lay on the ground to interact with your rabbit. They could even give them some fruits and vegetables to munch on. This way, your rabbit will feel safe and remain calm while interacting with someone new. It's also beneficial to limit interactions initially to short sessions, gradually increasing duration as your rabbit becomes more comfortable.

A new pet has arrived in their home

The last example is similar. If you've recently adopted a dog, a cat, or another animal, your rabbit will need time to adapt to the new dynamic in the household. Rabbits can be especially frightened of larger animals as their instincts will kick in that they need to escape.

This is why we must approach this situation similarly and take it slow. Your pets will need time to get used to each other's scent and presence. In these cases, you can work with an animal behaviour specialist if you're really having trouble encouraging your two pets to get along. Moreover, it can be helpful to create separate spaces initially, allowing gradual and supervised introductions to avoid any distress.

Medical reason

Lastly, if your rabbit isn't scared but keeps shaking or breathing fast and is experiencing other symptoms of a sick rabbit, you must take them to the veterinarian to rule out any medical reasons. If your rabbit is shaking, breathing fast and having their eyes roll back or loses control of her bladder and bowels, it could be a seizure.

Therefore, it's important you take them to their veterinarian to be properly diagnosed and treated. Early intervention is crucial to managing health issues effectively and ensuring your rabbit's well-being.