Rabbits can close their eyes, but they usually do so only when they are content or relaxed, and even then, they might keep them open. This is a defense mechanism since rabbits are prey animals with many predators.
You may have noticed that your rabbit seems to be constantly awake and alert. However, you may also notice that your rabbit will close its eyes for short periods of time. This is normal behavior for rabbits and is nothing to worry about.
Rabbits are actually for not closing their eyes very often. In fact, rabbits can go their entire lives without ever fully closing their eyelids! Instead, they have a thin film of tissue called the nictitating membrane that covers their eyes when they need to protect or moisten them.
This leads to two questions:
- When Do Rabbits Close Their Eyes
- What Is Their Reason For Keeping Their Eyes Open Almost All The Time?
Let’s dive into the answers below.
What You'll Learn
Won’t This Cause Damage to a Rabbit’s Eyes?
Rabbits can keep their eyes open for long periods of time without causing any damage to their eyes. In fact, this is a defense mechanism that has evolved to help them avoid predators.
Rabbits have nictitating membranes, or third eyelids, that help protect their eyes from debris and prevent them from getting dry. These membranes are clear and cover the eye when they are open.
Because of the nictitating membranes, rabbits can keep their eyes open for long periods without causing any damage.
When Do Rabbits Close Their Eyes?
Although rabbits keep their eyes open for most of the day, there are some situations where they will close their eyes.
Some of the situations where you may see your rabbit close his eyes include:
When They Sleep
Rabbits will sleep with their eyes open when they sleep. However, you may notice that they will close their eyes for short periods while asleep.
When They Are Relaxed
Rabbits will close their eyes when they are relaxed. This is usually a sign that they are content and happy. If your rabbit closes its eyes around you, it means they trust you!
When They Are Happy
Rabbits will also close their eyes when they are happy. This is usually accompanied by other signs of happiness, such as grooming.
When They Are Sick
If your rabbit closes his eyes and keeps them closed for long periods of time, it could be a sign that he is sick. If you notice this behavior along with other signs of illness, take your rabbit to the vet to get checked out.
When They Feel Threatened
Although rabbits keep their eyes open almost all the time to look for predators, they often close their eyes if they feel threatened. This is usually accompanied by other signs of stress, such as thumping their feet.
When They Are Being Pet
Many rabbits enjoy being petted. However, some rabbits will close their eyes when they are being petted. This is usually a sign that they are enjoying it!
Why Do Rabbits Keep Their Eyes Open Almost All The Time?
As we mentioned before, rabbits are prey animals with many predators. Because of this, they have evolved to keep their eyes open almost all the time to look for predators.
Rabbits can see very well in low light conditions and have a large field of vision. This allows them to see predators approaching from a long distance away.
Think of rabbits’ eyes as their superpowers. Since they are on the side of their head, rabbits almost have 360-degree vision. This gives them the ability to see predators coming from any direction.
So, the next time you see your rabbit with wide-open eyes, don’t worry! It’s just his natural defense mechanism kicking in.
Now that you know why rabbits keep their eyes open, you can enjoy watching your rabbit hop around without worry!
Rabbits are fascinating creatures that have many different behaviors. Rabbits will close their eyes when they sleep (although only for brief periods of time), when they are relaxed, when they are happy, and when they are sick. However, they will keep their eyes open almost all the time when they feel threatened because using their sense of sight is how they detect danger.
FAQ
Q: If My Rabbit’s Eyes Are Never Closed, Are They Not Relaxed?
A: No, if your rabbit’s eyes are open, it does not mean they are not relaxed. Relaxed rabbits will sometimes have their eyes closed, but they may also keep them open. However, if you see your rabbit with their eyes closed and they are not asleep, this indicates they are relaxed.
Q: Do Rabbits Blink?
A: Yes, rabbits blink just like humans do. However, they do not blink as often as we do. This is because their eyes are designed to stay moist without blinking as often.
Q: My Rabbits Eyes Have Been Closed For a While, is Something Wrong?
A: If your rabbit’s eyes have been closed for a while and they are not sleeping, it could be a sign that they are sick. If you notice this behavior along with other signs of illness, take your rabbit to the vet to get checked out.
