Change in bunny behavior

[lisadee216]

I have had my bunny for a little over a year, a male lion lop, I got him when he was a few months old. We used to be very bonded. He has the run of a large bathroom and has a cage to retreat to when he wants. I try to give him toys to play with and things to chew. He used to come to me whenever I came in the room and he loved to be pet. He would even purr. Lately, he has been hiding behind his cage and he runs away from me when I try to pet him. He still will eat from my hand, but seems to be "unsocial". Any advice on what could be bothering him or how to get him to re-bound with me??
Thanks.
Lisa:bunny18

 

[whiskylollipop]

Could something be making you smell different, such that he doesn't recognise you? Change in soap you use, perfume, or work environment? I'm no expert on bunny behaviour, but they do tend to rely a lot on what they smell, more than what they see. I can be playing with my bunnies just fine and then hop off to have shower, but when I return smelling like flowery soap, they run away and stare at me suspiciously. It takes a few minutes of talking to them in my 'bunny voice' to convince them that it's me.

You don't want to rule out illness or injury, though. Maybe he sprained a back muscle that hurts when you pet him, so he avoids you. Try observing him without attempting to go near him, and see if he's acting any different or showing signs of discomfort.

 

[Nancy McClelland]

Yeah, keep an eye out for other than normal behavior. Last night Finn didn't eat his veggies or treats--one of those "oh crap!" moments where you wonder if it's a vet visit as he's never met a food he didn't like. We think in a previous life he was a pig. Got back this afternoon and he was just fine and eating everything. Is your bunny neutered?

 

[lisadee216]

Thanks for the help. He is not neutered, I was thinking about getting it done. He seemed better yesterday. I do have company over, they are a bit noisy. I thought maybe that bothered him. I am trying to spend extra time with him! I will definitly keep an eye on him though. Thank you.

 

[woahlookitsme]

noises or change in scenery can startle or throw off a rabbit. He may improve with time as he gets used to his surroundings

 

[Spikethebunny]

I know around the one year mark, Spike changed and became very angry and disobedient and it was hormones. Once he was neutered, he was back to his little loving self. It could be a round of hormones making your bun act up. And like others have said, he may just have been shocked a bit and needs an adjustment. But if you can aford it, you may want to look into neutering as well. Glad he seems a bit back to normal!