Rabbit Communication Basics

Heart
Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

Thumping

When a rabbit thumps or stomps on the ground with a hind leg, it can make a surprisingly loud noise. This is the way rabbits communicate danger to other rabbits, and sometimes it is a sign of annoyance.

Dot

The miniature schnauzer weighs only 11 to 20 pounds and is the smallest of the schnauzer breeds. They’re known for being pretty healthy, especially as smaller dogs. Like many smaller dogs, miniature schnauzers worked as ratters originally. Therefore, they have a high prey drive and are pretty sturdy.

Multiple Blue Rings

Teeth Grinding

Gentle, soft grinding of the teeth in a relaxed rabbit communicates contentment (and sounds almost like a cat purring). On the other hand, loud teeth grinding is a sign of pain or discomfort, and your rabbit will often also be tense or hunched up when this occurs.

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

You may witness your rabbit rubbing its chin on objects or even people. Rabbits have scent glands on their chins that they use to scent mark territories and objects (the scent is not detectable by people, though, the scent is strictly for rabbit communication). Interpretation:

Dot

Chin Rubbing

Multiple Blue Rings

Binky

The binky is the unique and acrobatic jump accompanied by twisting the body or kicking the legs. Rabbits use the binky to communicate that they are feeling very happy and playful. Interpretation: "Life is great! I'm so happy!"

Dot
Multiple Blue Rings

A bunny that licks you have fully accepted you and is showing you affection. Interpretation: "I like you."

Dot

Licking

Multiple Blue Rings

A rabbit that follows you around circling your feet may just be trying to get your attention, but more likely your rabbit is sexually mature and is courting you (especially if accompanied by soft honking or oinking noises).

Dot

Circling Your Feet

Multiple Blue Rings

When a rabbit flattens itself on its belly with its head down and ears held very flat, he or she is frightened and is trying to blend into his or her surroundings.

Dot

Flat Rabbit

Multiple Blue Rings

A content rabbit that is sitting still or grooming may suddenly flop onto its side and lay still. Owners often fear something dire has happened, but it is a sign of utter relaxation. Interpretation.

Dot

Flopping

Multiple Blue Rings

A sudden movement towards you with the head up, tail up, and ears back is a very clear form of rabbit communication: an unmistakable threat. Interpretation: "I don't like that, back off!"

Dot

Lunging

Multiple Blue Rings

Rabbits are capable of some vocalizations that they use for communication, which sometimes surprises owners. Here are their interpretations:

Dot

Vocalizations

Understanding Rabbit Behavior and Body Language

Heart
Dot