There are a few reasons why your rabbit may be twitching. It could be due to a health condition, such as neurological problems or seizures. It could also be an emotional response from stress, anxiety, or excitement. It’s also common for rabbits to twitch during the REM stage of sleep.
Twitching is a common behavior in rabbits, but it can sometimes be a cause for concern. Rabbits are susceptible to several health problems, many of which can cause twitching.
In this article, we will explore some of the most common causes of twitching in rabbits and how to determine if it’s normal behavior or something to be concerned about.
It’s also important to remember that there’s a big difference between shaking, trembling, and twitching. This article will be specifically about twitching and will not address shaking or trembling.
What You'll Learn
It’s Completely Normal For Rabbits to Twitch
The vast majority of the time, twitching is entirely normal behavior for rabbits. The most common reason for twitching is that they’re in the REM stage of sleep. Just like humans, animals go through different stages of sleep. The REM stage is when we dream, and our muscles are more relaxed. This is also the stage where animals are most likely to twitch or move around in their sleep.
Rabbits usually twitch their noses, ears, and whiskers when they’re in the REM stage of sleep. However, you may also see them twitch their legs or bodies. This is perfectly normal behavior and nothing to be concerned about.
Most Common Reasons Rabbits Twitch
There are a few other reasons your rabbit may be twitching that are nothing to worry about.
Your Rabbit is Cold
If your rabbit is cold, it may start to twitch or shiver in an attempt to warm up. This is most common in baby rabbits or during the winter months.
Hiccups
Just like humans, rabbits can get hiccups. When they do, you may see them twitch or jerk their body. This is perfectly normal and will usually go away on its own within a few minutes.
REM Sleep
We touched on this in the section above, but when rabbits are in REM sleep, it’s normal for them to twitch.
Rabbits Twitch When Expressing Emotion
Rabbits can also twitch when they’re trying to express an emotion. The most common emotions that lead to twitching are happiness, excitement, or anxiety.
Happy
Rabbits are most likely to twitch when they’re happy or excited. This is often seen when they’re being petted or when they see their favorite person. If your rabbit starts twitching when you approach them, it’s a good sign that they’re happy to see you.
Upset
Rabbits may also twitch when they’re upset or anxious. This is most often seen when they’re in a new or unfamiliar environment. If your rabbit twitches and seems tense or nervous, it may feel uncomfortable.
Anxiety
Rabbits can also experience anxiety, which can lead to twitching. This is most often seen in rabbits that are shy or skittish. If your rabbit is twitching and seems to be avoiding you, it may feel anxious.
Startled
Rabbits may also twitch if they’re startled by a loud noise or sudden movement. This is a natural reaction to being startled and is nothing to be concerned about.
Medical Issues That Cause Rabbits to Twitch
There are a few medical conditions that can cause rabbits to twitch. These conditions are usually more severe and require medical attention.
Muscle Spasms
Muscle spasms are involuntary muscle contractions that can be caused by a variety of factors. In rabbits, muscle spasms are most often caused by dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or muscle injuries.
If your rabbit is experiencing muscle spasms, you may see them twitching or jerking their body. This can be accompanied by tremors, weakness, or paralysis. Muscle spasms are a serious medical condition and require immediate veterinary attention.
Parasites
Rabbits can also suffer from parasites, which can lead to twitching. Parasites are tiny organisms that live off of their host and can cause various problems.
The most common parasite that affects rabbits is the ear mite. Ear mites are tiny insects that live in the rabbit’s ears and feed off their blood. If your rabbit has ear mites, you may see it scratching its ears or shaking its head. Ear mites can also cause twitching, as well as inflammation and infection.
Other parasites that can affect rabbits include roundworms, tapeworms, and fleas. These parasites can cause various problems, including twitching, weight loss, and diarrhea.
Heatstroke
Heatstroke is a condition that occurs when the body temperature becomes too high. In rabbits, heatstroke is most often caused by exposure to hot temperatures or strenuous exercise.
If your rabbit has heatstroke, you may see them panting, drooling, or twitching.
Ear Infections
Ear infections are a common problem in rabbits. Ear infections are usually caused by bacteria or yeast and can lead to several problems.
If your rabbit has an ear infection, you may see it shaking its head or scratching its ears. Ear infections can also cause twitching, as well as inflammation and pain.
Food Poisoning
Food poisoning is a severe condition that can occur if your rabbit eats something poisonous. Food poisoning can be caused by various substances, including spoiled food, toxins, and bacteria.
If your rabbit has food poisoning, you may see them twitching.
Can I Do Anything to Prevent My Rabbit From Twitching?
You can do a few things to prevent your rabbit from twitching. However, it’s important to remember that twitching is normal. They may simply be expressing their emotions. In that case, you don’t need to do anything.
If you believe your rabbit’s twitching is from a non-emotional response, here are a few things you can try.
Is The Room Cold?
If the room your rabbit is in is cold, it may start twitching. This is because rabbits are sensitive to cold temperatures and can quickly become chilled. To keep your rabbit from twitching, make sure the room they’re in is warm.
Was Your Rabbit Startled or Upset?
If your rabbit was startled or upset, it might start twitching. To prevent this, try to make their environment as calm and quiet as possible.
Did Your Rabbit Eat Something They Weren’t Supposed to?
If your rabbit ate something they weren’t supposed to, it might start twitching. To prevent this, make sure your rabbit has a healthy diet and only eats food that is safe for them.
Check Your Rabbit For Parasites or Infections
If you think your rabbit may have a parasite or infection, take them to the vet. A vet can properly diagnose your rabbit and treat them accordingly.
When to See a Vet
Twitching is usually nothing to be concerned about, but you may want to see if a vet if any of the following are true:
The Issue Persists
If your rabbit’s twitching persists, you should take them to the vet. This is especially true if the twitching is accompanied by other symptoms, such as weight loss or diarrhea.
Your Rabbit Becomes Lethargic
Lethargy can be a sign of a serious medical condition and should be evaluated by a professional.
They Refuse to Eat
If your rabbit refuses to eat, this may be another sign of a serious medical condition and should be evaluated by a professional.
Twitching is Normal – But It’s Better to Be Safe
While most cases of twitching in rabbits are nothing to worry about, there are a few instances when you should take your rabbit to the vet. Remember, if the twitching persists or is accompanied by other symptoms, it’s best to get them checked out by a professional.
