My Rabbit Seems To Dislike Me?

[Jackie237]

Hi Everyone, I was hoping if you guys know more about my rabbit’s actions more than I do…because I’m left confused, haha.

I have this one rabbit who’s a doe named Sally. I’ve had her since she was a baby and  now she’s 2 years old. Naturally, she’s very shy and really nice. (Not aggressive ever, she doesn’t get into mischief like the other rabbits, etc).

However, I thought by now she would trust me. Sally doesn’t seem to feel safe to lay down when anyone is near, including me..when the other rabbits are totally comfortable with me. I’ve never chased her or grabbed her or have done anything that would make her scared of me. The weird thing is, if I don’t move and just lay next to her, she will lick me. She licks my face, my arm, my ear… I heard it was because of the salt from our skin…but I’m not entirely sure…

 

She would seem very uncomfortable when I pet her. If I pet her, her eyes would widen and she would run away once I lift my hand up; this makes me feel very sad  The only time she’s near me is when I’m laying down or sitting down and not moving. What do you think of her actions? Does she just not like me?

 

Thanks everyone

[LBJ10]

Have you tried hand feeding her treats?

And is she spayed?

[Jackie237]

Yes, she was spayed a year ago. I give her treats along with the other rabbits. She only eats the treat if I bring it to her INSIDE her cage, she wouldn’t step out most of the time. Sometimes she does if I don’t move.

[peppypoo]

Sally just seems like she’s the more timid kind of bunny. I wouldn’t say that she dislikes you…grooming is a sign of affection for bunnies, and if Sally is licking you then that means that she likes you . She just has her own rules about touching, as some bunnies do. You seem to have a handle on things – it’s great that you don’t try to force physical contact on her and just let her do her own thing. One of my bunnies is also skittish, and though he’s warmed up somewhat over the years he’ll never quite be a snuggle bunny like my other one. It all comes down to their unique personalities!

[LittlePuffyTail]

I agree with Peppy. Some buns are more timid, some more outgoing. They are just like people with all different personalities. I have a bunny that loves to snuggle a lot and one who is much less snuggly and prefers to do her own thing.

[Elrohwen]

Sounds like it’s just her personality. I’ve had one of mine for almost 4 years now, got him at 8 weeks, and he doesn’t like to be petted at all.

One thing that worked with my aloof bunny is clicker training. He still doesn’t really like pets, but he loves that he can control our interactions and get me to give him treats. Working on silly things like standing up and spinning really made him come out of his shell and interact with me more in his own way.

[Jackie237]

Thanks everyone for the replies!

[Author]

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