Rabbit Communication and Safe Toys
Thumping: When a rabbit thumps or stomps on the ground with a hind leg, it can make a surprisingly loud noise. This is the way rabbits commuicate danger to other rabbits, and sometimes it is a sign of annoyance. Interpretation: "I'm scared and nervous" or "I'm annoyed with you."
Teeth Grinding: Gentle, soft grinding of the teeth in a relaxed rabbit is communicates contentment (and sounds almost like a cat purring). On the other hand, loud teeth grinding is a sign of pain or discomfort, and your rabbit will often also be tense or hunched up when this occurs.
Interpretation: softly grinding teeth: "This is great"
Loudly grinding teeth: "Oooh, I'm in pain and I don't feel good" (this also means a trip to the vet is in order as soon as possible)
Chin Rubbing: You may witness your rabbit rubbing its chin on objects or even people. Rabbits have scent glands on their chins that they use to scent mark territories and objects (the scent is not detectable by people, though, the scent is strictly for rabbit communication).
Interpretation: "This is mine!"
Binky: The binky is the unique and acrobatic jump accompanied by twisting the body or kicking the legs. Rabbits use the binky to communicate that they are feeling very happy and playful.
Interpretation: "Life is Great! I'm so Happy!"
Licking : A bunny that licks you has fully accepted you and is showing you affection.
Interpretation: "I like you"
Circling Your Feet: A rabbit that follows you around circling your feet may just be trying to get your attention, but more likely your rabbit is sexually mature and is courting you (especially if accompanied by soft honking or oiking noises).
Interpretation: Usually mean "I'm in love with you" and means it is time to get bunny spayed or neutered. Sometimes simply means "Here I am, let's play."
Flat Rabbit: When a rabbit flattens itself on its belly with its head down and ears held very flat, he or she is frightened and is trying to blend into his or her surroundings. (Note: a relaxed rabbit may also lay flat, but a relaxed rabbit has different body language: relaxed muscles and expression.)
Interpretation: "I'm scared!"
Flopping : A content rabbit that is sitting still or grooming may suddenly flop onto its side and lay still. Owners often fear something dire has happened, but it is a sign of utter relaxation.
Interpretation: "oh, I'm just so relaxed."
Lunging: A sudden movement towards you with the head up, tail up and ears back is a very clear form of rabbit communication: an unmistakable threat.
Interpreation: "I don't like that, back off!"
Vocalizations: Rabbits are capable of some vocalizations that they use for communication, which sometimes surprise owners. Here are their interpretations:
Soft Squeal or Whimper: mild annoyance or displeasure.
Grunting, Growling, Snorting, and Hissing: all communicate varied stages of anger, stress, or feeling threatened. May be followed with a lunge or bite.
Soft Honking or Oinking: commuicates sexual interest. If your rabbit is circling you and honking, it is time for neutering.
Screaming: sign of extreme pain or fear. Do not ignore; reassure your rabbit and if there is no obvious reason your rabbit might be terrified, take your bunny to a vet.
Safe Toys
What are good bunny toys?
Toys for your bunny do not have to be expensive or even purchased; although there are many fun items you can buy. Listed below are some toy suggestions, all previously tested by bunnies!
Things you may already have around the house
Paper bags and cardboard boxes for crawling into, scratching, digging and chewing. It is best to have two or more openings in the bag or box, so bunny can have an escape route. Also, be sure to remove any labeling, staples or packaging tape from used cardboard boxes (all of which can be harmful to bunnies).
Empty toilet paper and paper towel tubes. Chewing fun, especially when stuffed with yummy grass hay!
A copy of the Yellow or White Pages for digging and shredding.
Baby toys. Hard plastic rattles, keys and rings work well as fling-n-toss toys. Avoid teething toys as the plastic on them is too soft and can be swallowed.
Large rubber balls, empty Quaker Oats boxes and small tins to nudge and roll.
A small towel for bunching and rearranging, just make sure they dont eat the towel!
Metal lids from mayonnaise jars, etc. These make lots of noise and are great for tossing and flipping! Be sure to wash thoroughly before giving to bunny.
Untreated wood, twigs and logs that have been aged for at least 3 months. Apple tree branches are safe fresh from the tree. Avoid these tree woods: cherry, peach, apricot, plum and redwood - all of these are poisonous.
Dried pine cones (must be washed & dried for at least 4 months)
A straw whisk broom