Rabbits are gentle creatures that normally don’t bite, but there are exceptions to every rule. A rabbit will bite a human if they are startled or feel threatened. Responsible handling will prevent rabbit bites.
One of the most common questions rabbit owners have is whether or not their pet could bite them. While rabbits can make excellent companion animals, it’s important to remember that they are still animals with their own natural instincts and behaviors.
There are a few reasons why a rabbit might bite a human. One is if they feel threatened or scared. Another reason might be if they’re in pain and trying to communicate that to you. If your rabbit starts biting, it’s important to figure out what the underlying cause might be so that you can address it appropriately.
What You'll Learn
It’s Rare For a Rabbit to Bite a Human
Rabbits will not go out of their way to bite a human and are not looking for a “fight.” In fact, rabbits will do everything possible to avoid conflict with humans. All animals have a fight-or-flight instinct, and rabbits tend to “flight” more than they “fight.”
However, they will bite if they feel like it’s their last line of defense. In the sections below, we will go over seven reasons a rabbit may feel like biting is their last line of defense.
The Difference Between a Nip and a Bite
First, we want to clarify the difference between a nip and an actual bite. A rabbit may sometimes nibble on fingers as a way of exploring its surroundings or showing affection. This is called a “nip.” It is not the same as an actual bite.
A nip is when a rabbit’s teeth barely touch the surface of the skin and there is no puncture. A bite is when the rabbit’s teeth puncture (or attempt to puncture) the skin.
Rabbits are known for nipping, not biting.
Why Would a Rabbit Bite a Human?
Now that we’ve clarified the difference between a nip and a bite, let’s go over seven reasons why a rabbit may feel the need to bite a human.
They Feel Threatened
Rabbits are prey animals. This means that they are often on the menu for other predators in the wild. As a result, they have developed a heightened awareness of potential threats.
Rabbits are also very intuitive creatures. They can often sense when someone means them harm, even if that person is not actually trying to harm them. This is why it’s important not to sneak up on a rabbit or startle them in any way.
They’re in Pain
Rabbits are very good at hiding pain. This is another holdover from their days in the wild. If a rabbit is hurt, it will try to hide it as much as possible so that they don’t appear weak and vulnerable in front of predators.
However, just because they’re good at hiding pain doesn’t mean they don’t feel it. If a rabbit is in pain, it may try to bite as a way of communicating that to you.
Protecting Territory
Rabbits are very territorial creatures and often establish a “home base” that they will defend from intruders. This home base can be anything from a specific corner of the room to their entire house.
If a rabbit feels like its territory is being infringed upon, it may try to bite to defend it.
You Startled Them
As we mentioned before, rabbits are prey animals. This means that they are constantly on the lookout for potential predators. As a result, they can startle easily.
If you make sudden movements or loud noises around a rabbit, they may interpret that as a sign of danger and try to bite in self-defense.
Food Guarding
Rabbits are also very protective of their food. This is another holdover from their days in the wild. If a rabbit feels like its food is being threatened, it may try to bite to defend it.
Not Used to Being Handled
Rabbits are not typically animals that enjoy being picked up and held. This is another defense mechanism from their days in the wild. If a rabbit is picked up, it may feel like they are in danger and try to bite as a way of getting away.
They may also bite if they are not used to being handled. If you have a new rabbit, it’s important to take the time to slowly get them used to being handled. Otherwise, they may try to bite out of fear or insecurity.
Sudden Changes in the Environment
Rabbits are creatures of habit; they like things to stay the same and don’t do well with sudden changes. If there is a sudden change in their environment, they may become stressed and try to bite to cope with that stress.
How to Avoid Getting Bit By a Rabbit
Now that we’ve gone over some reasons why a rabbit may try to bite, let’s go over some ways to avoid getting bit in the first place.
Know What Type of Rabbit You Are Dealing With
The first step is to know what type of rabbit you are dealing with. There are two main types of rabbits: confident and skittish.
Confident rabbits are the ones that are more likely to be friendly and outgoing. They are less likely to be scared of humans and more likely to be comfortable being handled.
Skittish rabbits, on the other hand, are more likely to be scared of humans and bite. This is because they are more aware of the potential dangers that humans pose.
If you know that you are dealing with a skittish rabbit, it’s important to be extra careful around them. Make sure not to make any sudden movements or loud noises.
Don’t Sneak Up On Or Startle The Rabbit
As we mentioned before, rabbits are prey animals. This means that they are constantly on the lookout for potential predators. As a result, they can startle easily.
If you make sudden movements or loud noises around a rabbit, they may interpret that as a sign of danger and try to bite in self-defense.
To avoid this, it’s important to ensure the rabbit knows you are there before approaching them. You can do this by making some noise or calling their name before you come into their line of sight.
You should also avoid sneaking up on the rabbit. If they are not expecting you, they may get scared and try to bite.
Don’t Mishandle The Rabbit
If you pick up and handle a rabbit, you must do so responsibly. This means not picking them up by the legs or back of their neck.
Picking up a rabbit by the legs or back of its neck can be very painful and scary for them. If you pick up a rabbit this way, it may try to bite you as a way of getting away.
You should pick up the rabbit by their sides, supporting their weight with your hands. This is the safest and most comfortable way for the rabbit. You should also be very gentle with the rabbit.
Use Common Sense
If you are around a rabbit, it’s important to use common sense. If you think something might frighten the rabbit, it’s probably best to avoid doing it.
For example, if you are going to pet the rabbit, make sure to do so gently. Also, avoid using loud voices around the rabbit.
Are Male or Female Rabbits More Likely to Bite?
There is a common misconception that male rabbits are more likely to bite than female rabbits. However, this is not true. Both male and female rabbits can be aggressive and capable of biting.
Pregnant or nursing females are more likely to bite than other rabbits. This is because they are more hormonal and may be more prone to aggression.
It’s Important to Understand Rabbit Behavior
Rabbits can make great pets. However, they can also be quite delicate. It’s important to be careful around them and to understand their behavior.
If you are thinking about getting a rabbit or already have one, follow the tips in this article to avoid getting bit.
