Rabbit Can't Stand To Be Touched, Advice?

[Boz]

I have a foster bun named Midnight (more info in my blog! ). One thing about him is that he HATES being touched. He grunts, thumps and runs if I even think of trying. Even if I go slow. He has learned to be quiet a begger and is taking treats from me (through the pen) a lot nicer then he used to (so that's good!). But I'm just not sure how to go about this touching thing. He's 5 years old and neutered. Any advice would be wonderful!

 

[elrohwen]

Have you tried the floor ignore? Just lay or sit quietly on the floor and don't try to touch him. Maybe offer a treat if he comes near you. Just let him get very comfortable touching *you* first, before you try to touch him.

I'm sure he's also unsettled and unsure of his new environment, so he needs time to get used to you. It took my own rabbit at least 6 months to actually enjoy pets, so it can be a long slow process for sure! Good luck with him

 

[Bex&Bun]

My little on Daphne hates being petted, if I somehow do pat her she will then run behind the lounge and thump madly.

I have found a corner that they like to hang out in and sit very still on the floor with some lettuce in my hand. When she takes it out of my hand i will pat her head very softly and say good girl. I dont touch her back or sides because she doesn't like it. And if she flinches to run I back off.. I also sit still on the floor and let her explore me without moving.

 

[Runestonez]

Patience and copious amounts of treats...

We have a lionhead girl...when we got her she had a great personality...after her spay she became VERY aggressive...

She is about 5 years old (where does the time go?) and even though she has been with us for 4 years she still grumps and smacks and is generally a little cuss...it doesn't matter if she is in or out of her cage...she hates to be touched!

If I sit on the floor she will eventually sneak up on me to see what I am doing...rabbits seem to have more curiosity than is good for them sometimes! I give her treats and it works...sometimes. Her sister was much the same and she became a very friendly bunn who liked to be pet and groomed...

Sometimes it just takes time and patience to break them down...but I have found that the ones you have to work the hardest to get through to are the best personality wise!

Our girl is still a grump and tries to smack and box...I think she does it to be contrary:biggrin2:...but I have also seen through the bluff and snuggle her anyway! lol

Danielle