Picking up/holding bunny

[AKM]

This has come up because I recently clipped my bunnies nails myself with help. Prior, I have not picked them up, or held them much at all. I have had them since last October. This was due to reading they do not like it, since they are prey…And they do not like being picked up. I cuddle and snuggle with them and give them kisses which they like. I give them lots of love and they enjoy being brushed. Should I practice picking them up more often or trying to hold them on my lap? I am asking if anyone else holds their bunnies much?

[Deleted User]

You really shouldn’t pick them up unless it’s necessary, such as for a nail clipping. Being picked up is very stressful for them and it can harm your bond and cause them to distrust you. They are happy on the floor, just get in their level for pets and cuddles

[AKM]

Thank you. Sounds good, as to what I had thought.

[Deleted User]

They will like you much more if they don’t have to leave the floor

My bun was spayed just over a month ago, and when I had to check her tummy she let me know that she was very unhappy with that by grunting. My other bunny, a male mini lop, doesn’t put up any fuss about being picked up. Still, I don’t pick him because I know they don’t like it. Some may tolerate it more than others, but as a general rule, it’s safe to say that no bunny *likes* to be picked up.

I’m glad that you aren’t trying to force it, some people just don’t understand that it makes them extremely uncomfortable and they continue picking them up just because they want to. It can seriously harm your relationship with your rabbit, as they will learn that they cannot trust you!

[Wick & Fable]

If your rabbit likes cuddles and pets and kisses, you could try clipping nails while your rabbit is lounged. That’s how I clip Wick’s nails. I don’t pick him up for nail clipping because honestly I don’t know how one coordinates that with only two hands, haha.

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.

[AKM]

Actually I was initially able to clip most of my loppy bunnies nails when she was on the ground with me petting and making her relaxed. Her ‘lop’ is so big some of her nails we had to hold her to get. I figure it’s better if we can do it at home, rather than a trip to the vet!

[Author]

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