Why is My Bunny Afraid of Being Picked Up?

I may be a bit biased, but it's my belief that rabbits (especially sweet little babies) are one of the cutest creatures in existence. Not to mention so soft and cuddly! But there's just one little problem when it comes to actually cuddling said rabbit...they don't usually like it.

And by "like it" I mean really hate it. Because rabbits are prey animals, their least favorite thing is when their cute little paws leave the ground. It kicks their survival instincts into high gear and the first thing they want to do is get away from that scary situation.

But the last thing we want to do to our sweet buns is hurt them. So how can we work towards holding our bunnies without giving them too much of a scare?

1. When learning to hold your bunny, the number one rule is DON'T HOLD YOUR BUNNY.

   You may be asking yourself, "what on earth do they mean, don't hold my bunny? That's the whole reason I'm here"! And I completely understand where you're coming from. But one of the best approaches to anything bunny is to take it slow and steady. That's what will win the race!

   
   

   So at the beginning, don't hold your bunny right away. Simply sitting in their enclosure and teaching them that your hands are friends and not claws trying to snatch them away will be the number one tool to working towards this goal of holding them safely.

   
   

   How to teach your bunny that your hands are safe.

   
   

   Hand feeding is going to be your biggest friend when it comes to teaching your bun that your hands only mean good things. Try feeding treats, forage, and pellets from your hand to start this process off on the right foot!

   
   

2. Keep your bunny secure while being picked up.

   Remember how previously I mentioned that rabbits don't like when their feet leave the ground? That's because it feels like they're being snatched into the air by a big scary predator. This can be true even for a bunny that knows you and is bonded!

   
   

   Keep this in mind when picking up your bunny and be sure to keep one hand on their chest and one hand on their booty by gently scooping them up. Once their in your arms, tuck them close and keep their feet stabilized against your arm for the most secure position.

   
   

   Just remember, don't chase your bunny in an attempt to pick them up! This will simply scare them more and make it more difficult for you in the long run. Wait until your bunny is comfortable and perhaps even taking a nap before attempting your next cuddle session for better results.

   
   

3. Encourage with rewards!

   Who doesn't like a good reward after a difficult activity? Your bunny certainly does! After holding your bunny, ALWAYS reward with a little special treat to give them the signal that something good is coming after they get held. Since it isn't their favorite activity, a reward after everything is over will be like a glorious light at the end of a tunnel!

   
   
   
   

   With a little patience, hopefully these 3 tips will help both you and your Fluffletale bun feel more comfortable with the holding process. If not, don't feel discouraged, and just try to remember that your bunny loves you no matter what!