Rabbits are fascinating creatures with a secret language all their own.
While they don’t bark or meow, these fluffy companions use their bodies to share feelings, needs, and warnings with the world around them.
Learning to read your rabbit’s signals can transform your relationship and help you become the best bunny parent possible.
This article provides general information about rabbit behavior and should not replace professional veterinary advice.
Always consult with a qualified veterinarian if you have concerns about your rabbit’s health or behavior.
1. Rapid Nose Wiggling Signals Curiosity
When your rabbit’s nose moves like a tiny motor, excitement fills the air.
This speedy twitching means your bunny is investigating something new or interesting in their environment.
Rabbits rely heavily on their sense of smell to understand the world.
Fast nose movements help them gather scent information quickly, processing everything from potential treats to unfamiliar sounds.
Watch for this behaviour during exploration time or when you enter the room.
2. Gentle Nose Twitching Shows Contentment
A slow, rhythmic nose twitch tells you everything is right in your rabbit’s world.
This calm movement indicates your bunny feels safe, comfortable, and perfectly happy where they are.
Unlike the rapid wiggling of an alert rabbit, this gentle motion resembles a slow breathing pattern.
You’ll often see this when your rabbit lounges beside you or rests in their favorite spot.
Consider it their version of a contented purr.
3. Tail Wagging Means Defiance Or Annoyance
Don’t mistake a rabbit’s tail wag for the happy signal dogs give.
When bunnies flick their tails rapidly from side to side, they’re expressing frustration or rebellion.
This behavior often appears during playtime when you try to return them to their enclosure.
Your rabbit is essentially saying “No thanks, I’m not ready yet!”
Respect this signal and give them a few more minutes if possible.
4. An Upright Tail Indicates High Alert
Picture a periscope rising from a submarine.
That’s what your rabbit’s upright tail resembles when they sense something potentially threatening.
This position signals maximum alertness and readiness to react quickly.
Your bunny might hold this stance when hearing unexpected noises or encountering unfamiliar situations.
The raised tail helps them appear larger to potential predators.
Stay calm and reassuring during these moments to help your rabbit relax.
5. A Lowered Tail Suggests Nervousness
When fear creeps in, rabbits tuck their tails down tight against their bodies.
This defensive posture makes them appear smaller and less noticeable to threats.
You might observe this behavior when introducing your rabbit to new people, pets, or environments.
The lowered tail often accompanies other nervous signals like flattened ears or crouching.
Give your bunny space and time to build confidence gradually.
6. Binkying Expresses Pure Joy
Nothing matches the delight of watching your rabbit binky.
This acrobatic leap involves jumping high into the air while twisting their body and kicking their legs out wildly.
Binkies are rabbit speak for “Life is amazing!”
You’ll see this exuberant display during playtime, after receiving favorite treats, or when feeling especially spirited.
Consider yourself lucky to witness such unbridled happiness.
7. Circling Your Feet Shows Affection
Does your rabbit zoom around your ankles in tight circles?
This adorable behavior stems from courtship rituals and signals affection.
Your bunny is showing love and possibly asking for attention or treats.
Some rabbits add honking sounds or gentle nips to their circling routine.
Intact rabbits circle more frequently, but spayed and neutered bunnies also display this charming habit.
Enjoy these loving loops as bonding moments.
8. Teeth Grinding Indicates Two Extremes
Rabbit teeth grinding creates two completely different messages depending on volume and context.
Soft, barely audible grinding resembles a cat’s purr and means pure contentment.
Loud, harsh grinding signals pain or severe distress and requires immediate veterinary attention.
Learn to distinguish between these sounds by observing your rabbit’s overall body language.
Happy grinding accompanies petting sessions and relaxation.
9. Lunging Communicates Territorial Aggression
When your rabbit charges forward with ears pinned back, they’re delivering a serious warning.
Lunging behavior tells you to back off from their space, food, or belongings.
This aggressive display often occurs during adolescence or breeding season, especially in unaltered rabbits.
Never punish this behavior, as it increases fear and aggression.
Instead, work on building trust through patience and positive interactions.
10. Nuzzling Requests Attention Or Grooming
Feel a gentle nudge from your rabbit’s nose?
They’re asking for something, usually attention, petting, or grooming.
In rabbit society, grooming is a social activity that strengthens bonds.
When your bunny nuzzles you, they’re inviting you to pet them or requesting that you move aside.
Some persistent rabbits will nuzzle repeatedly until you respond.
Answer their polite request with gentle strokes along their head.
