migrated image

How to Pick Up a Rabbit

If pet rabbits are not handled gently and often, they might not like being picked up. Keep in mind that rabbits are prey animals, rather than predators, so naturally it can be scary for them to be handled. But when you learn how to pick up a rabbit correctly and safely, this can help the bunny to feel comfortable with handling.

How to pick up and hold a bunny

Follow these steps for picking up and holding a rabbit:

1. To properly pick up a rabbit, place one hand under the rabbit’s front armpits and place the other hand on the rump near the hind end.

Step one in how to pick up a rabbit

Home starts with you

When we work together to bring our best friends home, we help loving pets find the families they’ve been dreaming of, and we get the country closer to ending the killing of pets in shelters. Let’s bring our best friends home.
Bring Love Home

2. Lift and hold the rabbit securely to your body. Make sure you are supporting the rabbit’s back at all times.

3. Hold the rabbit close and make sure you have a good grip, so the rabbit feels safe. 

Step three in how to pick up a rabbit

When you’re handling a rabbit, always stay calm and quiet to avoid startling the bunny. Because rabbits usually don’t like being picked up, they can be wiggly and try to jump out of your arms. If you feel that the rabbit is about to jump, get low. That way, if the rabbit does jump, they're closer to the ground and less likely to become injured.

Never pick up a rabbit by the ears, scruff, feet, or in any other way that doesn’t support the rabbit’s back.

Issues:
Rabbit Training
Tags:
Bunnies/Rabbits
Logo Icon

Be our Best Friend

Best Friends Animal Society is working with you to save the lives of cats and dogs all across the country, giving pets second chances and happy homes.

Just a few short years ago, cats and dogs were killed in staggering numbers in this country simply because shelters didn't have the community support or the resources to save their lives. That number is now less that half a million per year, but there's still work to do to ensure a bright future for every dog and cat in America.

Best Friends operates the nation's largest no-kill sanctuary for companion animals and is committed to saving the lives of homeless pets by working with shelters and passionate people like you. Together, we will bring the whole country to no-kill in 2025. Together, we will Save Them All.