Rabbits Nipping Is Getting Out Of Contol

[Katie]

My rabbit has been a increasingly needy lately. So I have been petting him more and giving him extra attention. But he has just gotten worse, at first he would nip a little (being very soft and avoiding my skin) at my jacket or jeans to get more attention and ask to be pet more which was fine. But now after the past couple of days he has been more aggressive with his teeth. Nipping at my knuckles and not as soft anymore.With that he has started leaping from his cage onto my lap to then bite at my jacket and jeans. He has also started to lunge at my hand then put his head down wanting to be pet.I have tried correcting him with a little squeal, and if it gets to bad I will leave him alone. 

Does anyone know to stop the aggression? 

Should I worry about him getting even more aggressive? 

Extra Info About the Bun:

 – Almost 3 years old

 -He lives outside (but still very spoiled)

 – Not Neutered

 – My other rabbit lived in the cage next to him but he passed away a couple of months ago.  

Thanks for any advice in advance and Happy Holidays!

[Wick & Fable]

Not being neutered could contribute to it. Nipping comes out of need and frustration, so his hormonal frustrations from territorial instinct and mating may have accumulated and added to the frustration of not getting attention. And yes, he could get more aggressive.

The squeal and retract feedback is important and I think you should continue that. It’s like puppies playing with each other; they learn how far they can go based on the others reaction. Even if it doesn’t actually hurt, you gotta make it seem like it does, cower and walk away. Wick grooms me so delicately compared to his other parent because we went through this (he’d be pretty aggressive with my pinky toe).

Also monitor how he reacts to touches and such, because rabbits can get aggressive if they’re in pain.

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.

[Author]

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