The Language of Lagomorphs: Part One

Rabbits have a reputation for being silent creatures who do nothing all day, but in reality they have a wide range of expressions and methods of communicating. It's easy and rewarding to learn the language of lagomorphs. Just sit back and let them teach you!

Grunting, Lunging and Boxing

When a rabbit grunts it usually indicates that he is unhappy or angry about something. Maybe you're rearranging his cage, or reaching in to lift him when he's trying to nap. Watch their body language, too. If they are tense and crouched, they mean business. Grunting is often accompanied by lunging forward and "boxing", or a flailing of the forepaws. All the rabbit is saying is, "Leave me alone." It's best to heed this warning unless you want to be bit.

Honking

Honking is different than grunting. It's a soft, low, rhythmic sound that is used primarily by males when they court females. Spaying and neutering does not totally eliminate the sexual urge, and rabbits will still chase and mount each other for pleasure. Rabbits will also mount each other as a form of dominance. Honking usually accompanies this chasing and circling, but Maia honks when I reach for the box of treats. It basically means, "I want you (or a treat)."

Circling

Running in circles around your feet is another behavior related to sexuality. This is a courtship ritual although, again, some rabbits will circle you because they are "in love with" getting a treat. If a rabbit is unaltered and circles you frequently, they are sexually mature and need to be neutered.

Spraying

Males that are not neutered will mark their territory by spraying urine. Females will also spray but it is not as common. Altering your pet is the solution. Rabbits will continue to use droppings and urine to mark their territory even after they have been neutered, although most will use their litter box regularly. Droppings outside the litter box most often indicate a territoriality issue. Maybe you've brought another pet home, or have recently moved. This is the rabbit's way of saying, "This is my space."

Shrill Scream

This is one rabbit sound I hope you never have to hear. Rabbits only make this sound when they are extremely distressed, hurt or dying. It is unmistakable. If your rabbit screams, they need medical attention immediately. Maia screamed when I took her to the vet to be spayed. In this case, she was not in pain but was terrified of the experience.

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