Decoding Theodore’s Behavior

[lynn]

hey guys! I’ve had my rabbit Theodore for about 8 months now. He was about 3 months old when I adopted him. (he was a shelter rescue). I should also mention that he’s neutered.

he’s very sassy. he snorts at me almost constantly– petting him, putting his food bowl down, even sometimes when I do the crime of *gasp* standing up if he happens to be sitting nearby. he hates getting brushed and won’t let me do it for very long (but he’s a lionhead so he needs it!!). he’s never growled, lunged, or tried to bite me. he has no problem taking food or treats from my hand.

Theo has free roam of my bedroom– all day, all night. my room is bunny-proofed so I don’t worry about him getting hurt or getting into things while I sleep or if I leave the house. he has a pen that he can come and go from as he pleases, but he spends most of his time hanging out under my desk chair while I work. its interesting that he seems to enjoy being near me but gets annoyed if I try interacting with him. I like to sit on the floor with him and hang out. he’s got toys, two litter boxes, plenty of comfy places to hide and sleep. he’s pretty pampered, I’d say. maybe he’s too spoiled? lol

I guess I’m just trying to figure out how best to build trust with him, and why he seems to get annoyed at me. I swear he’s only tolerating my existence. if he could obliterate me, he totally would.

[LBJ10]

8 months old? Sassy? Yep, sounds about right to me. Typical teenage bunny. Honestly, I don’t think you’re doing anything wrong. Just keep doing what you’re doing. Things will likely evolve with your relationship as he gets older and matures a little bit.

As for the brushing, sometimes there’s just no way around it. Do what you gotta do and then beg for forgiveness afterward.

[BrunosMama]

Yep, that’s definitely the attitude of a teenage bun lol. He will most likely become a decent, upstanding bunny boy as he gets older (like teenage hooms mellow out).

Our youngest bun, Arthas, likes to come up for pets, then binky and shake away right before you touch him. If you DO happen to touch him, he whips around and grooms himself as if he were a king being touched by a peasant lol!

I would say the fact that Theodore hangs out by you is a great sign! It means he is gaining trust in you and does like you (despite what he wants you to believe lol).

I’m with LBJ. Keep doing what you’re doing and it will all work out. 🙂

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