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by Rolan Tripp, DVM and Susan Tripp, MS/P

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Aggression Unraveled


Aggression can be defined as a bite or any threat of a bite. Do not be fooled into thinking a rabbit will not bite if threatened or scared. "He never bites," means, "so far."


What types of aggression are common in rabbits?

Hormonal Aggression

Usually seen during the natural breeding season which is most often in the spring. Typically, this behavior tapers off in the summer and does not occur again until the following spring.

Spaying or neutering your rabbit can prevent hormonal aggression and prevents additional medical problems such as urine marking for males and false pregnancies for females. Please contact your veterinarian to determine if this is right for your Pet.

Remember to speak softly when you approach and handle your bunny to indicate you are not a predator.

Fear Aggression

A frightened bunny may act aggressive towards a perceived threat, especially if there is no opportunity for escape.

If your bunny is showing fear aggression towards you or anyone else, stop trying to handle your rabbit, instead start over by offering treats and petting your bunny softly without actually holding him. Work up to handling your rabbit after petting is enthusiastically accepted. Be sure you are securely holding your rabbit when you pick her up and keep sessions short.

Avoid scenarios which can cause your rabbit to regress due to fright. (Example, do not attempt to handle your rabbit during a bad thunderstorm or when you have children running through the house which could cause loud noises.)

Territorial Aggression

You place your hand into your rabbits home to pick up a food dish or refill the water and you are rewarded with an angry bunny and a bite on the hand. What is this all about? If your rabbit is only threatening and aggressive when you are near their home, your rabbit may be showing territorial aggression by showing displeasure about the invasion.

To stop your rabbit from acting aggressive towards intruders, begin by sitting next to the pen and reading a book out loud. Toss in a treat for good measure every once in a while and remember to provide positive experiences only. Slowly approach the pen and offer another goodie until you can easily place your hand in the cage without being chomped on. Treats provide a distraction but also show them you are a friend who provides good things when around and not someone to be driven away.

For the short term, a good pair of gloves may be needed to avoid injury when feeding or removing items from the pen. Take your time in helping your Pet learn that you are not a threat to their territory and always remember, physical punishment is NEVER warranted.


Gentle Pet Training Methods

Using positive reinforcement methods will help your Pet learn to trust and accept you. In addition to learning trust and acceptance, your rabbit will gain confidence in themselves as they learn you are the source of all good things. A confident rabbit will be better able to adjust to new people and new situations. 

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