Motivational Support Needed

[plantiebee]

Hey guys,

I would consider myself a fairly new rabbit owner. I think I had it very easy with my first two rabbits as they came to me young and bonded with each other instantly and also with me for the most part!

However, I recently adopted a 1 year old female Flemish Giant and it has just been a struggle. I am obviously keeping her separated from the other rabbits but she is just terrified of all of us. She usually comes up to us to sniff then bites us and runs away. She shakes, thumps and hides. I needed to move her yesterday as she was getting some free run time outside by herself in our little “paddock” and when I brought her in she dug at my legs and bit me hard enough to leave a bruise through my jeans.

 

Now I know it doesnt always go fast and easy. I need patience and time with her. Some moral support and tips would be great. I want her to feel more comfortable around us. I tried talking to the original owner and she said that she had never bitten anyone before and was very “social”. I am sure it is in her somewhere. Has anyone else had a situation like this before? How did it go with you all?

Thank you!

[DanaNM]

Hmmm, I’ve never personally dealt with this type of behavior, but it does sound like everything she is doing is out of fear. How long have you had her? And can you describe her set-up?

I think it will be important that you don’t need to pick her up or handle her on a regular basis (only for nail trims, etc.). So you’ll want to make sure she can access her exercise area without having to be carried from a hutch or another area of the house. The fact that she reacted so badly after you moved her makes me think she is very scared of being handled, and was reacting defensively. I think it’s easy to forget that large breeds are still bunnies, and still do most things out of fear!

Other tips are to spend lots of time on the floor with her, but ignore her. Lay on the floor and read a book, etc. Play hard to get. Don’t immediately try to pet her when she approaches you. If she bites you, you can squeal (mimicking what a bunny scream sounds like) to communicate that she’s hurting you. Bunnies do communicate through nipping, and they don’t always know that they are hurting, since when they nip other bunnies they mostly just get a mouthful of fur.

Hand feed her as much as possible, again, not trying to pet right away. Make sure she has lots of safe hiding spots to retreat to. I’ve also heard it can help to leave one of your dirty socks in their pen to get them used to your scent, but I haven’t tried this myself!

Speak calmly to her as much as possible so she gets used to your voice.

I’ve had very very shy bunnies that do open up and get more calm with these strategies! I’m sure you’ll get there!

You also didn’t mention if she is spayed yet? If not she might be having some hormonal surges that are playing into things as well.

. . . 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.  

[plantiebee]

Thanks for your answer Dana! Sorry for my late response, I didnt get any email notifications my post was even approved

I know I have only had her a short amount of time – about 3 weeks now. I have had 2 other rabbits who were both young when I got them and they were much easier to bond with so I guess I was a bit shocked with the amount of fear.

I have a feeling the original owner was a bit of a mass breeder, she had had a litter previously apparently so she is not yet neutered. She lived among gosh… 10 other rabbits? Mostly outside all day. The owner said she was very friendly and sociable. Well…. clearly not.

I dont really try to pet her at all lately. She is now excited when I come in to feed her, which is nice and I do try to hand feed her as much as I can. I have her in an enclosure next to my other rabbits so they can sniff etc…

Sigh, I think probably she needs to be neutered and given 6 months of time alone Shame…

[DanaNM]

Aww, 3 weeks is no time at all! It can take a while for rabbits to get used to their new surroundings and learn to trust.

The fact that she is getting excited at feeding time means you are making progress. Keep up with the hand feeding and floor time. Let her explore and sniff you on her own terms, and I’m sure you will have a very rewarding relationship.

Something about earning the trust of a shy bunny is just so rewarding, so have patience and you’ll get there!

. . . 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.  

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