Rabbits are expressive, communicative animals — but their body language is subtle and easily misread.
Positive Signals
- Binky: A mid-air jump with a twist. Pure joy — the rabbit equivalent of happy dancing.
- Flop: Suddenly rolling onto their side. Means complete relaxation and contentment.
- Soft tooth grinding: Equivalent of a cat's purr.
- Nose bonking: Gently head-butting you — affectionate greeting.
- Licking: The highest compliment a rabbit can give.
Warning Signals
- Thumping: A hard stamp — 'something scared me'.
- Loud teeth grinding: Pain — vet visit needed.
- Growling or lunging: Fear or territorial behaviour.
- Nipping: A gentle nip means 'stop' or 'move'.
Ear Positions
- Both ears upright: Alert, listening
- Ears relaxed back: Resting, calm
- Ears flat against back: Fear or submission
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The Flop
First-time rabbit owners often panic when their rabbit flops — it looks like a sudden collapse. Don't panic: it means they feel 100% safe with you.
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