The word bunny is a cute way to refer to the furry animals that make loving companions. These mammals, from the scientific family Leporidae, have soft, long hair or fur and a tail that can be upright or hanging down, depending on the breed of rabbit. Rabbits can be a single color or a mix of white, black, brown, and tan and range in size from pygmy lops to giant Flemish Giant rabbits.
In the wild, rabbits live in a constant state of alert — they’re prey animals hunted by predators including hawks, coyotes, and weasels. They don’t like to be picked up, and they may run away or hide if you try it. They may also nip or bite. These behaviors are designed to signal that they’re in danger and need help.
Rabbits are not the kind of animal you can take for a walk, but they do love to spend time in their cages or outdoor enclosures. They’re best suited for people who can give them ample space to roam, including time each day outside. This is because rabbits are natural chewers and can easily chew through things like wires, skirting boards, and chair legs if left unsupervised.
Rabbits are very affectionate creatures, but they tend to prefer to interact with humans on their terms. They don’t usually enjoy being cuddled or picked up, though some do. Honor your rabbit’s wishes for personal space and let them approach you if they’re interested in head scratches or lap time.