by: ASPCA Ani-Med

Ever heard the phrase "dumb bunny"? Well, it certainly doesn't apply to your animal companion. Your inquisitive, sensitive rabbit may surprise you with her intelligence. She can learn to use a litter box, come when called and may even beat you in a game of tag! Through an understanding of what motivates her, you'll better meet her needs--and gain a loyal, loving friend in the process.

Your new bunny wants to be part of the family--and that means she'll need to live indoors, in your home, with you. Although pet rabbits have been traditionally kept in backyard hutches, these days responsible caretakers are better informed. Did you know that the mere approach of a predator--the neighbor's dog, for example, or a wild raccoon--can cause a rabbit to die of fright? Animals kept outdoors are also susceptible to a variety of diseases spread by fleas, ticks and mosquitoes. While living indoors is essential, you will need to make sure your rabbit's not cooped up in her cage all day long. A minimum of several hours of daily playtime in a safe, secure area is recommended.

It's true that your rabbit wants to be close to you, but the majority of rabbits highly dislike being picked up and handled. We know, we know, they look so cuddly--but rabbits feel extremely insecure when lifted off the ground, and if they are mishandled or have not been trained to tolerate handling, will protest with kicking and nipping. Please see our section on HANDLING for the right way to pick up your pet.

Topping the list of perfectly natural, perfectly enjoyable bunny behaviors are chewing and digging. Not only does chewing wear down a rabbit's continuously growing teeth and exercise her jaws, it's FUN! As a responsible rabbit owner, it's up to you to ensure that your pet has a wide variety of appropriate toys to satisfy these urges. Should you fail to meet said requirements, do not be surprised if your pet takes matters into her own hands (paws?!) and digs up the carpet and gnaws the bars of her cage--or a table leg or two. Don't get mad--just get her some chew toys!

It may take a while for you figure out what your rabbit's trying to tell you. These animals generally don't make much noise, but you may hear yours do some "tooth purring" every now and then. Caused by quick, light vibrations of the teeth, this is the sound of one contented bunny--not to be confused with the loud, slow grinding that indicates an animal in pain. And when a rabbit growls or clucks, she's letting you know that she's annoyed.

Your pet speaks loud and clear with her body language, too. For example, when she thumps the ground with her back leg (yes, that's how Thumper got his name!), she may be afraid or uncertain, or is issuing some sort of warning. When she rubs her chin on your hand, she's claiming you as her territory. And then, of course, there's the bunny dance, a very loosely choreographed series of kicks and leaps done by the happiest of rabbits.

There are many other ways in which your bunny will let you know how she's feeling--but half the fun of getting to know your companion rabbit is figuring them out for yourself! (P.S. We will tell you one thing, however--if your pet licks you, you've got a friend forever!)