Rabbit Communication Basics

Rabbit body language can be complex. Rabbits communicate much information by how they position and move their bodies, and an experienced owner can learn to read their rabbit's signals quite well. Here are some of the basics.

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. Interpretation: "I'm scared and nervous" or "I'm annoyed with you."

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.
Interpretation: softly grinding teeth: "This is great."

Loudly grinding teeth: "Oooh, I'm in pain and I don't feel good" (This also means a trip to the vet is in order as soon as possible.)

Chin Rubbing

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: "This is mine!"

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!"

Licking

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

Rabbit sticking it's tongue out — Credit: Michael Phillips / Getty Images

Circling Your Feet

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). Interpretation: Usually means "I'm in love with you" and means it is time to get bunny spayed or neutered. Sometimes simply means "Here I am, let's play."

Flat Rabbit

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. (Note: a relaxed rabbit may also lay flat, but a relaxed rabbit has different body language: relaxed muscles and expression.) Interpretation: "I'm scared!"

Flopping

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: "Oh, I'm just so relaxed."

Little rabbit sleeping in his bed — Credit: Kryssia Campos / Getty Images

Lunging

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!"

Vocalizations

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

Soft Squeal or Whimper: mild annoyance or displeasure.
Grunting, Growling, Snorting, and Hissing: all communicate varied stages of anger, stress, or feeling threatened. May be followed with a lunge or bite.
Soft Honking or Oinking: communicates sexual interest. If your rabbit is circling you and honking, it is time for neutering.
Screaming: a sign of extreme pain or fear. Do not ignore; reassure your rabbit and if there is no obvious reason your rabbit might be terrified, take your bunny to a vet.