Rabbits may look domesticated in color and breed, but their perspective on the world remains very close to that of their wild relatives. They are prey animals and must always be vigilant — hence their aversion to being picked up. They may hide, frighten or nip to protect themselves. Consequently, it’s important to learn to read your rabbit’s body language to identify the signals they send that indicate that they are happy and healthy.
For example, a bunny who sprawls across the floor or on a lounge is relaxed and content. When they lick you or groom you, it is a sign of affection. When they request pets, they are expressing their desire to bond with you and feel safe around you. The fact that they can sit, relax and eat with you at their side is also a great sign that your rabbit feels secure and has a sense of home in their habitat.
You can also determine whether your rabbit is happy if they are chewing, hopping or playing with toys. This activity is often accompanied by a chattering or vibrating of their teeth, similar to a cat’s purr. They may even toss toys around with their mouth or bat them with their paws.
If your rabbit has a splay leg, it can be braced to restore normal function and allow them to live a full life. However, it is important to discuss this with a veterinarian who has experience with lagomorphs (rabbits, hares and pikas). They can provide you with the information necessary to make this decision on a case-by-case basis.