How to Hold a Rabbit

Want your rabbit to love you? Try holding it the right way. Depending on its size, you may need to adjust the way you pick up and hold your rabbit.

Steps

1. Approach the rabbit so that it sees you coming to pick it up. Pet it a bit on the nose or do other things the bunny likes to create a calm feeling.
2. There are a few different ways to properly pick up a rabbit, but be gentle whatever you do.

Method 1

1. Put your writing hand just under the rabbit’s arms so your fingers are well cushioned under its armpits, holding its chest.
2. Place your other hand to scoop up its bum
3. Scoop the rabbit up, lifting with your writing hand and supporting the rabbit by the bum.
4. Lift the rabbit to your chest. If inexperienced, hold the rabbit to your chest with one arm and support it by its bum with your arm.

Method 2

1. Put both hands around the rabbit’s midsection between its front and back paws, gently but securely.

Holding the Rabbit

1. Hold the rabbit so that it is secure in your arms and well supported.
2. Pet the rabbit on the head while you hold it so that it is soothed.
3. Putting the rabbit down/ back in its cage
4. Shift the rabbit’s weight back into your hands, ensuring that it is secure in your hands

Tips

• If it struggles gently put it down trying not to hurt its back because they are fragile
• Refer to the House Rabbit Society webpage for more tips on rabbit handling, behavior and care.
• If the rabbit starts biting or digging, it probably wants to be let down/put back in its cage.
• Practice! The better you get, the more the rabbit will trust you and not fuss when you pick it up.

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