What is the best way to handle and pick up young rabbits.?

Question

I have just got my first bunny (8 week old lop), and I am looking for any advice or guidance, in particular regarding the best way to pick them up. Sometimes he is fine and other times he really kicks out and scratches! Also what is the best way to interact with them and get them to come to you??

Answer 1

Watch this youtube video on how to pick up a rabbit correctly.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=394WrfWmX...

Never pick a rabbit up by holding its ears, you can damage the ears.

These may also help

http://www.giantrabbitrescue.co.uk/4582....

http://www.ehow.com/how_2210450_pick-up-...

Answer 2

Pick up the rabbit by the scruff of the neck - like mum would- and then put a hand under the bottom to take the weight. Hold the rabbit close to you but don't squeeze.

Your rabbit will learn to trust you more with daily interaction and stroking.

Answer 3

I have always put one hand on the back of their neck/shoulders and scooped up their butt with the other.  Once in your hands, hold them as close to your body as possible... basically a rabbit hug.  It makes it harder for them to kick and scratch.

Answer 4

one hand on the head and one hand on the a**s

Answer 5

chop of ther heads and eat them. yum carrot flavour

Answer 6

Do not ever ever ever pick up a rabbit by the scruff or ears.  Yes, mom bunny picks them up by the scruff to move them, but as they get older, their anatomy changes, their skin is less elastic, and it HURTS.  When you must pick him up, put one hand under his chest, one under his rear, supporting his bum and rear legs.  Hold him firmly against your body so he can't squirm.  Picking up a kicking rabbit is very dangerous, though, please be aware of this and use caution.  Their rear legs are quite strong and they can actually kick with such force that they damage their spine or break another bone.  

I would recommend not picking up your rabbit unless necessary, since he obviously does not enjoy it.  Most hate it and will struggle to get away or freeze in fear. You have to remember with rabbits that, unlike cats and dogs, they are prey animals. A huge animal like a human picking them off the ground and holding onto them is rather like being hunted- they are waiting to find out when they become lunch! Many people who think their rabbits like to be held don't realize that a major part of the rabbit's prey reflex is to freeze and remain motionless. A lot of these rabbits are actually so terrified they can't move to try to escape. A hunched over posture, bulging eyes, upright ears, and a pretty complete lack of movement are signs that, in fact, the rabbit is terrified. I would say about half the rabbits that I've fostered tolerated holding but did not like it, and the other half hated it and will struggle or fight to get away. I have yet to meet one that actually enjoyed being picked off the ground and restrained. BUT, the bright spot here is that if you are gentle and kind and don't grab and hold your bunny, many will choose to associate with you, sit on your lap, and allow you to pet and snuggle with them unrestrained. The best way to accomplish this is to sit or lie on the floor and let the bunny decide when to interact with you. When they do, give them treats and don't grab or restrain them. Soon your rabbit will seek you out for love and treats. Of course, there are also a large number who will always prefer not to be touched by humans, most of these will interact with you, take treats, and be generally very entertaining to watch, but will run and hide if you reach for them.