Do Rabbits Like to Cuddle?

Yes, most rabbits like to cuddle. This can be with their owner, their rabbit friends, or occasionally with other animals! But this will vary, as some rabbits simply aren’t that cuddly. But most adore being petted, held, and generally fussed over.

You’ll usually find that tame rabbits that have been held and exposed to human contact from a young age are more comfortable being cuddled. Older rabbits who aren’t used to it will likely be timider and panic when you try to cuddle them. You should never force your rabbit to cuddle.

Also, make sure that you move slowly – if you swoop in and grab your rabbit they might mistake you for a predator like a bird of prey. Build up trust and bond gradually and you might find your rabbit hopping over for a cuddle.

Rabbits Cuddling

There are a few ways that a rabbit will cuddle:

• Rabbits cuddling each other: A bonded pair of rabbits will be affectionate towards each other, they’ll groom, share food, and lie down directly next to each other. They’ll either both be sprawled out which means they’re at ease, or one will remain upright to be the lookout.
• Rabbits cuddling their owners: A loving owner and their rabbit cuddling is one of the sweetest sights. (For tips on cuddling your rabbit, check out the section below.)
• Rabbits cuddling other animals: Though this is rare, rabbits and other animals can bond and choose to cuddle together. You should never leave your pets unattended, but a rabbit and another pet (like a dog or cat) might lie together if they’ve been introduced slowly and are comfortable in each other’s presence.

Note: Cuddling your rabbit doesn’t have to be you holding them while you’re standing up. Your rabbit will probably prefer if you lie down and let them come to you. They might feel safe enough to settle down on you and allow you to pet them, and they’ll view that like a cuddle.

How to Tell if Your Rabbit Wants a Cuddle

If you’re wondering whether your rabbit wants a cuddle, there are a few signs you might notice that indicate it.

Look out for:

• If your rabbit flops near you (this is when they sprawl out with their legs behind them. It’s a sign of total trust if they do this around you).
• If you regularly hold them and they’re content in your arms, they probably won’t mind a cuddle.
• If your rabbit jumps up on furniture where you are or onto your lap, they’re looking for attention from you.
• If your rabbit leans into your hand or your body and stares at you, this is a sign they want something for you.

You’ll know once you try and pick up your rabbit if they’re receptive to being cuddled. If not, let them go and wait for them to approach you.

If your rabbit doesn’t want a cuddle, that doesn’t mean that they don’t love you! You can give them treats and pet them to show your affection, and they’ll find ways to reciprocate the effort.

Tips for Cuddling Rabbits

If you’re wondering how to make a cuddle the most comfortable that you can for your rabbit,  check out these tips.

• Don’t hold them too tightly (especially children – sometimes younger kids will squeeze rabbits and this is when they might start biting).
• Use correct hand positions (one hand on their stomach behind their front legs and the other hand on their behind. Never hold your rabbit by their ears).
• Listen to them (if your rabbit wants to be put down, pay attention to the signs. A stressed rabbit can get aggressive if it’s their only option to escape).
• Hold them close to your body (your rabbit won’t like being held up in the air and might start clawing their way towards the ground).
• Get them used to being held (this is beneficial for vet trips when you need to hold your rabbit. Start with petting, then having them on your lap, and then in your arms).
• Be patient (It might take time before your rabbit feels comfortable, but don’t give up. Their instinct as prey is to keep their guard up).
• Try using a blanket (rabbits sometimes feel cozy and safe if they’re wrapped up. Don’t wrap them too tightly or they’ll struggle to breathe).

Check out this article about how to safely handle your rabbit for more information.

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