Why Is My Bun Licking a Blanket?

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This topic has 2sd replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 1 year, 6 months ago by Bam.

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- 05/12/2023 at 5:10 PM
  HesaBadBunny
  Participant
  31 posts
  Hi everyone,
  
  My bun is 8 years old and this is a brand new behavior for him. He constantly licks a a duvet and is pleased to just sit there licking it.
  
  There are no chemicals on the duvet (white cotton and no detergent – it is old). I just put it on the floor to block any drafts when he lays in front of the patio door.
  
  He has had absolutely no interest in blankets up until this point. He would dig at them on the sofa, but never lick. And yes, he is licking, and not chewing.
  
  2.5 weeks ago (almost 3 weeks ago) he had molars filed and he hasn’t been the same…but he has been improving. Perhaps the two are related?
  
  I would appreciate any advice or insight!
- 05/12/2023 at 5:43 PM
  Wick & Fable
  Moderator
  5813 posts
  It can be comforting gesture for the rabbit, there may have been something on that duvet that is just inperceivable to humans but your rabbit noted it…. or other reasons.
  
  A recent molar filing could be a part of it. I’d look at the behavior in context of others and see if it may be indicative of any pain/stress going on.
  
  It also may be a want for grooming, so see if petting him while he does it stops him.
  
  The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.
- 05/13/2023 at 12:21 PM
  Bam
  Moderator
  16965 posts
  It seems likely that it’s connected to the molar filing, since this is a new behaviour for him and he’s 8 years old. It doesnt have to be a bad thing though.
  
  As Wick says, licking soft objects is often a kind of proxy grooming. My youngest bun likes to sit behind my head on my pillow and lick the pillow. I had one bun that loved licking his crinkly tunnel. If you pet the bun the licking might stop, only to begin again as soon as you stop the pets.
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