How can I get my bunny to like me?

[bunbunlovers]

I’ve had my mini lop since August, and she doesn’t seem to like me or my family at all. Her bond has already warmed up to us and he’s the sweetest little guy ever, but she is a different story. She doesn’t let anyone pet her, she’ll either run away, headbutt your hand away, bite you, or attempt to toss your hand. She never comes up to me at all, and usually runs away when I go near her. The only times she comes near me is to bite my foot or try to eat my pant leg. I’ve tried bribing her with veggies and treats to no avail. I haven’t scared her as far as I know, and I always approach her slowly and where she can see me. I don’t know what to do to get her to like me… or anyone 

[buddyboy]

I can only imagine how it feels when you think you bunny dont like you. They all have their own personalities. I haven’t haf to deal with an attitude like that,but it seems you have to gain some trust. Try walking by her closely,but dont stop,and call her name,the petting comes later,just let her get more use to you being close without touching. I talk to mine all the time,putting his name in every sentance,always making him feel hes getting my full attention. Only approche your bunny with a treat,then walk away. My bunny gets interested in anything new on the floor,paper bag,my lunch box, a shoe thats not usually there. If your bunny is like that with new objects on the ground,try sitting by the object and let her explore it without you reaching for her. I think she will feel more confortable around you if she knows your not going to touch her. It may be a slow process. I think she will come around to liking you.they can sense stress,anger,try to keep emotions low.

[Deleted User]

Hey bunbunlovers my Henry was exactly the same, though a ‘little’ better now 7 months in, but our relationship is far from a lot of lucky bunny owners who’s buns are so affectionate (yes, I’m jealous!). We have come to accept that is just the way Henry is. When ‘he’ decides to let us pat him it is very exciting, so no, not much excitement going on in our house. (sad face).
One thing we have never done – thought that Henry doesn’t like us (he better – spoilt bunny! ha hah), he’s just not an affectionate guy. Buddyboy made some great suggestions above, and remember it does take time, lots! Maybe your girl is just an obnoxious bun like Henry (doh), and you may have to do with enjoying her company hands off. It’s not so bad – Henry’s presence, naughty nature and the fact he is just so dam cute brings us joy everyday. We marvel at his antics, and still gosh when he does something as simple as cleaning his face and ears. Loving him from a distance is all ok with us. All the best bunbunlovers.

[rayray]

I got my little Ziggy in August as well and he is JUST starting to come to me for pets & rubs. At first even treats didn’t work, but he eventually gave in. Maybe it takes a little longer with a bonded bunny since they have an option over your company. But I’m sure she’ll come around. Maybe not to the point of the other rabbit, but in her own way.
And I agree AndHenry, I’m sooo jealous of the people with affectionate buns!! I’ve gotten close with Ziggy (actually sleeping in my bed). But then he peed on me and killed our bedtime love. lol!

[MoveDiagonally]

The best way to bond with a rabbit is to get down to their level and hang out. Grab a book or lap top and ignore her. Keep some treats in your lap and if she approaches you slowly set one near you but don’t try to feed it to her. If she gets close don’t try to pet her. Let her get comfortable around you without having to physically interact with you. It’s a patience game for sure.

[bunbunlovers]

When I try just sitting there, she’ll usually get bored and run off to have a nap under the couch or eat her hay in the litter box. Treats have her attention for a little bit, but if she’s not fed constantly she seems to lose interest.

[Deleted User]

Yep, that is exactly how it is for me with my Henry (7 months in as I indicated above). Like rayray said above, it may have a lot to do with your bun having bonded with another – Henry has bonded to my dogs. He will literally squash himself up against a wall to lay next to the dog, but will barely ‘tolerate’ us giving him a pat. I too tried all the suggestions and have now given in and accepted my distant relationship with Henry. I wish my post was more positive (sorry), but it’s mostly to let you know that’s just how some buns are for whatever/whichever reason. But don’t give up completely, as rayray stated, with time (& lots of it) she is having ‘some’ luck with Ziggy. Me personally – I have a 10 year plan! As soon as he gets old, docile and not so quick, he’s all mine for cuddles! ha ha hah! (9 years and 5 months to go, but who’s counting?).

[rayray]

Lol!! That’s a great plan!!
Since Ziggy only has me, he’s going to have to accept my love eventually. The birds and the corn snake aren’t on speaking terms with him.
Patience and persistance is key so don’t take it personally.

[Deleted User]

Oh my rayray – what on earth did Ziggy do to get the birds and SNAKE offside???? That is soooo funny!
No matter what bunbunlovers, don’t ever take it personally – there are a few of us in the same position, so you’ll never be alone in your quest to love your bun hands on.

[bunbunlovers]

Recently we had a bunny sitter taking care of the buns, and when we arrived Minnie seemed like a different bunny. She was hopping up to my family and I and begging for pets. It was rather bizarre. I also learned that both of my bunnies absolutely loved the pet sitter’s nine year old sister. Apparently they were letting her carry them and pet them no problem. I was kinda jealous haha :/

[Deleted User]

Jealous! I’d be furious – feeling ripped off! ha ha ha…..
But how fantastic! Maybe bunny lovin is coming your way? (Now I’m jealous – doh!). Lol!

[bunbunlovers]

I don’t know haha, maybe she’s been reading the forum and feels bad……. yeah right, she’s too much of a diva to apologize XD. She’s back to biting feet, but is still kinda tolerating petting. She’s such a weirdo

[Author]

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