I really need help.

[Jamie S]

Thanks

[Jamie S]

I really do love this bunny! It is so hard to spend a lot of time with something and get no where with it. Its the cutest darn thing and it is so frustrating when it runs from me. I just want to hold it and love it and pet it
Its such a cute bunny i hate being mean to him but he is so

[jerseygirl]

Hi Jamie,
Firstly, it’s good you’re are asking and willing to learn. I think your relationship with your rabbit can improve but just don’t expect the relationship to be like it would with a cat or dog or you’ll end up disappointed.

The important thing to understand is rabbits are a prey species. It basically means they are hard wired to think everything is out to get them. It’s what’s makes it so much more special when you do earn their trust.

I’m sorry, but the way you have handled him so far has proven to him he needs to be fearful. But you can change this!
Avoid picking him up. To interact with him, lay down on the floor and let him approach you in his own time. Even when he does come over, try not to touch him at first. After some time, you could start patting his head. He might even settle down and lie next to you for a bit.

When you need him to go to the cage, do use a treat as an incentive. I find with scared rabbits, that to put a box or carrier down they’ll hop in and I can take them back to the habitat that way. Sometimes I do need to herd them into the carrier but its still better then picking them up if they fight so much.

You can eventually work with them in being picked up but it takes time and patience. Most will tolerate it but rarely will like it.

I hope this has helped some and please ask if you have further questions. You’ve only had the rabbit a short time so I hope you’ll be able to enjoy things more and see all they can be.

[jerseygirl]

You can sort of snuggle them but it has to be on their terms. They just feel more secure with all 4 feet on the floor.

I lie down with mine and put my head next to them and pat them. You get rewarded hearing their little tooth purr of contentment.

How old is your rabbit? The spraying may be to do with his age and whether he’s neutered or not.

Here is some reading that I hope will help you understand him further.

http://www.bunnyrescue.org/handle.html
http://language.rabbitspeak.com/

[Beka27]

I don’t understand your post. Can you elaborate on what the situation is and give stats on your rabbit? This will help us help you.

Tell us about your rabbit:
Breed
Age
Sex
Neutered, yes or no
How long you’ve had him/her
What kind of habitat
Behaviors that you are concerned about
What you’ve done to remedy these behaviors so far

[LBJ10]

Yes, I’m confused too. What’s going on?

[tanlover14]

I am also confused. Is there another post (as it sounds like it from jersey) where you are having this same issue? If so, could you repost it on here so we can all catch up-to-date on whats going on between you and your bunny?

[jerseygirl]

Looks like OP removed the first post.

Jamie S, I hope some of my tips helped. Others here can offer more advice from their experiences if you care to share again what difficulties you’ve been having.

[Author]

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