As a pet rabbit owner, you may have noticed your furry friend doing new and adorable things daily. Rabbits can play with owners almost just as much as dogs. However, like dogs, they are also not fond of being picked up. Though there has been a misconception in this claim, as many owners ask, why does my rabbit climb me? This question comes from pet rabbit owners who have experienced their rabbits climbing them like a ladder but being shrugged off or whiny when the owner attempts to pick them up.
The likely reasons for this are your rabbit may just be trying to engage your hair. If you have a lot of body hair, rabbits may try to think you are just like them and go after yours! There is no reason for this act besides rabbits just being interested in hair. It could also be from hair products your pet rabbit may be interested in and trying to after. In either case, it is a common occurrence, and likely means your furry friend trusts you.
In this article, we will look further into why rabbits climb their owners at times. Should you be alarmed?
What Does It Mean When Your Rabbit Climbs On You?
If your pet rabbit decides to climb on you, take it as a sign of love. These furry creatures are not fans of being airborne as it is horrifying for them. A likely reason for this that history has shown these creatures no mercy in being carried off by birds. This trait is just in a rabbit’s nature.
However, many owners have stated that their pet rabbits will often climb their couches or recliners to reach the necks of their owners. Once this feat is completed, the rabbit can begin to climb on the human to engage their hair, body, or head! It may be because your hair smells good or just because the rabbit is interested in something that it has itself.
Rabbits may also sit in their owner’s lap if they find that they are trustworthy. Some owners have mentioned that they will nibble on arms and legs with their noses to show their affection. It is also likely they may decide to climb you if they feel afraid and have nowhere else to run. Extreme fear, love, or curiosity are the three most likely reasons your pet rabbits climb you, so do not be alarmed and take it as a good thing.
Related article: “Why Does My Rabbit Headbutt Me?“
Do Rabbits Like To Be Held?
Rabbits are not fans of being picked up or held because they will feel cluttered and have nowhere to run. Rabbits are always very aware and ready because these furry creatures have had to run at a moment’s notice throughout history. However, if you can approach rabbits properly, it can be done, and they will enjoy it. Pet rabbits usually love to be pet, cuddled, or stroked by their owners if approached the right way.
Be sure if you are to pick up or hold your pet rabbit, sit down on a comfortable seat, and allow the rabbit to lay on you and sleep. Be careful not to disturb your rabbit while it is napping, as it could frighten and make the furry little guys run off rather quickly.
How Do Rabbits Show Affection To Humans?
Rabbits will show affection in a variety of ways. These ways can range from licking and nibbling, demanding head rubs, or running around your feet in circles like a puppy! These furry animals are very loving, especially once comfortable with an owner. Rabbits will show affection for how you show them, love. This act of love is done through grooming, as your rabbit likely wants to pet you as you do for them! There is also a nice research show about how we, humans, should act with rabbits, to get their most affection.
If your rabbit begins to lick or nibble you, they show a sign of submission, which means they fully trust you. It could also mean that the rabbit is interested in what taste your clothing may have to offer or are confused whether you are part of the furniture or not. But most times, this will mean your pet rabbit loves you.
Demanding head rubs are another form of affection and will likely be done through your pet rabbit, nudging you and sitting down. They will begin repeating this process until you have shown their furry heads some love, so do not be shy!
Pet rabbits may also run around their owner’s feet for excitement. Rabbits are like dogs in terms of loving their owners. While this might be completely adorable, be aware it may also mean your pet rabbit is trying to beg for something!
Do Rabbits Get Attached To Their Owners?
Yes, rabbits will get attached to their owners just as much as dogs or puppies will. Rabbits are naturally born with refined senses. They can differentiate between humans, meaning they can recognize their owners’ faces, voices, and scent. Rabbits are incredibly loving animals and certainly develop an attachment to the one who puts food in their bellies daily.
You will almost always be able to tell if your rabbit is attached to you because they will do the things mentioned above, such as nibbling and licking, demanding head rubs, running around feet, tooth-clicking, and other subtle ways. Keep in mind, while these furry animals get attached like dogs and cats, they will likely not show as much affection or as often. Rabbits are always very aware, and as such, they tend to stay to themselves.
You also might be interested in: “Do Cats Dream About Their Owner?“
Related Questions
Why Does My Rabbit Stare At Me?
Though there may be many reasons for your rabbit staring at you, they are likely scared, anxious, curious, or simply want your attention. Rabbits are great at communicating in many ways to show what they want. If your pet rabbit is staring at you, they are likely frightened or in need of something. Most house rabbits stare at their owner due to wanting attention or food.
Why Does My Rabbit Climb On My Shoulder?
Throughout history, these furry creatures were hunted by ruthless birds of prey. This means that they are very intuitive, and if frightened, your pet rabbit may jump over your shoulder to getaway. It is not likely these furry guys will climb and take a nap on your shoulder, but if the rabbit feels threatened or extreme fear, it will jump over your shoulders to get away.
Why Does My Rabbit Climb On My Back?
Rabbits will climb on their owner’s back simply because you are a much higher surface than they originally had. Since they are climbing onto backs, it is much easier to stay stable and be on overwatch. It is important to remember this is not a sign of dominance. It is just your bunny’s way of communicating!
Final Thoughts
Rabbits climb on you mostly out of love and trust. However, other reasons can include curiosity, fear, anxiety, and other things. Have you ever experienced a pet rabbit climbing on you? The simple solution to this is to let the rabbit do its thing. Also, always make sure to give it what it needs if it is begging. Though not always considering they could be hungry or thirsty out of boredom.
Whatever the case may be, it is an adorable event that will make you fall over from the cuteness. Rabbits are very affectionate and caring and will always be sure to show love and trust to their owner. However, it may be through climbing on top of you or nudging at you for attention. But that is why we love these furry little guys!
