My rabbit grunts when I pick him up. Is he uncomfortable or unhappy?

Thanks for reaching out about Theo. Intact males often become less handleable. , especially at an age where their testosterone levels are on the rise. When a rabbit feels safe when restrained, they will often fight less. Well supported underneath the body and gently grasping the rear legs should do fine. Lifting them high off the ground is pretty scary so only lifting several inches, while your sitting on the ground might help. Litter training should occur at this time also. If he has selected a potty area, try placing the litter pan there, with some veggies or hay inside to encourage him to enter. Once he starts using it as a toilet, you can gradually move the pan to the area you want. Good luck.

Hello, and thank you for your question. Did you just get Fluffy recently? Most rabbits are not accustomed to being picked up if they haven't been handled from a young age. I suspect she wags her tail in an attempt to squirm away. I would take it very slow, and not attempt to pick her up if she is uncomfortable. Start by gently petting her, offering her treats and speaking to her softly. Eventually, you may be able to put her in your lap. The last step is to get her used to being picked up. Always support her bum with one hand, and support her back by putting it against your chest. Rabbits have very strong legs, and can injure their back or legs if they kick out in a panic. Taking your time to get Fluffy used to you will help get her comfortable with you and avoid any injuries. I hope this helps! Good luck with Fluffy!

Thank you for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! It is important to remember that rabbits are naturally a prey species, so they are pretty timid and can be defensive. I recommend moving slowly with Bun Bun to let her realize that you are not a threat. You should start by petting her first between the ears and then gradually moving towards her neck and back. It may take some time for her to trust you enough to let you pick her up. Unfortunately, some rabbits never like being lifted, so you should be careful to support her back end to prevent her from hurting her back. I hope this helps!

1) Never ever let this person near your bunny again! 2) if your bunny eats, drinks, hops around without any signs of discomfort, then he likely is ok. 3) Should he have a swelling around or on the neck, walk or hop funny or otherwise appear "off", he needs to be seen by a veterinarian. This would indicate some injury or at least pain and your vet can prescribe pain medicine. 4) Nobody but you and a veterinarian is allowed to pick up your bunny!

if he is not hurting when you touch the area, and if there is no bruise or other lesion, then I would not worry about it. However, in the future try to pick him up with both hands, as it is easier on him and you will be able to hold him more securely.

I think is perfectly normal for her to do that (vocalizing may be an actual good sign!) and, by your description of what you are doing, I think you are not doing anything wrong at all! Please do not hesitate to contact us again on the forum or by requesting a consultation if you have any more questions or to discuss it any further.

Thanks for reaching out about Willow and including photos. Shed can be a result of stress. She is probably grunting because she is an un-spayed female. Intact males and females can be very tempermental. Females have a very high incidence of uterine cancer and should be spayed. Allow her to acclimate to her new home, in a relatively quiet and low light room. Keep movements slow, offer small amounts of treats by hand. Good luck.