I just got a rabbit today at the county fair and he is really skiddish. How can I calm him down?

Question

Whenever you pet him he flips out and runs around the cage then his heart starts to beat hard. How can I make him more comfy and not so scared?

Answer 1

Don't try to touch him again for the next 2 days or so. He needs time to settle in. Rabbits can be very easily scared and he has been uprooted and is frightened. He needs time to get used to being in a new place before you interact with him. Just sit by the cage for now and talk to him, let him hear your voice, but don't try to touch him. After a few days start to slowly interact with him. Show him the back of your hand, but let HIM approach you to sniff it. Put treats in the palm of your hand. It is a slow process, especially if he wasn't handled much as a baby, but you'll get there.

Answer 2

As others said, he needs time alone to adjust. Please check out rabbit.org to learn how to take care of your bunny and to learn more about what to expect from him.

Answer 3

for a few days don't really mess with him. just let him get used to his surroundings! just feed and water him so he gets used to you. and he knows you wont hurt him. then just slowly start messing with him every day he will get used to it. that's what i did with my show rabbits! i hope it works for you!! good luck!!