Rabbits may come in domesticated colors and breeds, but their perspective on the world is still close to that of their wild relatives. They are prey animals and must be vigilant at all times to avoid being eaten. This is why they don’t like being picked up and may run away, hide or nip if you try to hold them. They’ll also hide signs of illness to avoid attracting predators.
These sensitive and cunning animals have a wide range of emotions that they express: affection, jealousy, anger, fear, satisfaction, curiosity and restlessness, to name just a few. Rabbits also communicate with scent glands and mark territory by spraying urine. A rabbit that is binkying (running with its head up in the air, twisting its body and kicking its feet) looks unmistakably happy.
The word bunny is often used to refer to baby rabbits, but it’s also the common name for adult members of the Leporidae family. The term comes from the Old English hare, which itself is derived from the Germanic haas and Danish hara. Both words have been around for a long time, and both are still in use today.
Rabbits love to graze and chew, so they need a constant supply of hay and fresh grass that is clean and free from pests. They also need plenty of exercise, so make sure your bunny has access to a room or outdoor space that’s at least the size of their hutch and provide them with toys and obstacles.