Today is World Rabbit Day – the perfect time to celebrate these often-overlooked companions and highlight the unique qualities that make them exceptional pets.
While dogs and cats tend to dominate the conversation around household pets, rabbits have quietly secured their place in many homes around the world. They can live for up to 10 -12 years and have the ability to form strong bonds with their human carers.
Surveys of New Zealand pet owners (Companion Animals New Zealand 2015, 2020) show that rabbits are the fifth most popular household pet (after cats, dogs, birds and fish) with 2.8% of households having a rabbit as part of the family. But what makes pet rabbits so special? Drawing on scientific research, let’s explore why rabbits are incredible companions and uncover fascinating aspects of their behaviour that sets them apart as unique pets
They are prey animals – not hunters
Rabbits are prey animals rather than hunters. This distinction influences their behaviour and body language, as rabbits are naturally more alert and sensitive to their surroundings. A rabbit living alone is likely to feel anxious since it will need to be on the alert for danger 24/7, because there is no security afforded by there being another rabbit to share vigilance duties with. To keep themselves safe, they rely on keen senses and quick responses to potential threats, often preferring to hide or freeze rather than engage in confrontation. Their behaviours — like thumping to warn of danger or hiding when scared—are instinctive strategies for avoiding predation.
Research shows rabbits' prey instincts significantly affect their stress responses and behaviours in both domestic and wild environments. Understanding their natural behaviour is key to providing them with an environment where they feel safe and secure, and ensuring a good life for these long-eared companion animals.
The social and emotional intelligence of rabbits
Rabbits are highly social creatures – this means that they need company, and even when kept as pets, that company should be from other rabbits. Being social creatures explains why they make fantastic companion animals. They have a high level of social and emotional intelligence which means they are capable of forming strong bonds with humans and even other animals and thrive on positive social experiences. Rabbits aren’t just tolerant of human companionship—under the right circumstances they will seek it out. Their ability to develop trust and affection with their caregivers makes them perfect pets for those who have the time and patience to build a close relationship.
In fact, rabbits communicate in subtle ways, relying on body language and gentle interactions to express their emotions. Rabbits use a range of physical cues such as nudging, grooming, and even flopping over—a sign of total relaxation and trust. Recognising these cues helps pet owners better understand their rabbits, reinforcing the bond and enhancing the human-animal relationship.
Rabbits can express empathy
One unique and scientifically-backed aspect of rabbit behavior is their ability to exhibit empathetic tendencies. Although more commonly associated with species like dogs or primates, recent research has shown that rabbits can recognise when another animal, or even a human, is distressed. Studies suggest that rabbits can change their behaviour based on the emotions of those around them. If a bonded companion (human or rabbit) is upset, rabbits may become more attentive or exhibit comfort-seeking behaviours like nuzzling or licking. This makes them remarkably sensitive pets, adding a layer of emotional connection that isn’t always expected from a small animal.
Physical care and bonding
Studies show that rabbits value companionship almost as much as food. A standout feature of rabbit behaviour is the importance of their grooming behaviour, which is not just a form of self-care but a bonding ritual. When rabbits groom each other, it’s a sign of affection, and the same goes for their human companions. Pet owners often find that their rabbits will groom them by licking their hands or face, treating them as part of the “rabbit family.”
Rabbits are also incredibly clean animals, known for grooming themselves meticulously throughout the day. However, their cleanliness extends beyond just self-grooming. According to studies on rabbit husbandry, they can be litter-trained just like cats. This trait makes them more adaptable to indoor living and easier to manage in home environments. The combination of emotional intelligence, the ability to form deep bonds, and their fastidious cleanliness makes them ideal companions for many households.
The hidden world of rabbit digging
One fascinating and often misunderstood aspect of rabbit behaviour is their instinctual digging. For wild rabbits, digging is a survival mechanism, allowing them to create complex burrows that offer safety, temperature regulation, and space for social interaction. In a domestic setting, this behaviour can still manifest, leading to what appears to be “destructive” tendencies.
But in reality, digging is a natural and healthy outlet for rabbits’ instinctual needs. Providing digging boxes filled with safe materials can enhance their welfare and give pet rabbits the stimulation they crave.
They’re more complex than many people think
We previously posted an article all about the misconceptions of rabbit care – and how many people think they are a great, small pet for children. This is far from the case and becoming a rabbit guardian means a commitment to understanding their unique needs and providing optimal living conditions year-round. You can read this article about their needs to have a Good Life here: https://www.companionanimals.nz/articles/not-just-cuddles-and-carrots-the-truth-about-rabbit-care
Conclusion: A unique and rewarding companion
Rabbits may not always be the first pet that comes to mind, but their unique blend of emotional intelligence, empathetic behavior, and instinctual habits makes them extraordinary companions. With proper care and attention, rabbits can form lasting bonds with their human families, providing affection, empathy, and a bit of playful digging along the way. On World Rabbit Day, let’s celebrate the amazing qualities of these gentle animals and the joy they bring to the lives of those who are lucky enough to share their homes with them.
More resources for caring for your rabbits and providing them with a great life are available here: https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/
References:
Jensen T. E., and Toates S. J., (2006) "Stress responses in prey animals: The case of domestic rabbits," Applied Animal Behaviour Science
Rooney N., et al., (2023), "Run access, hutch size and time-of-day affect welfare-relevant behaviour and faecal corticosterone in pair-housed pet rabbits," Applied Animal Behaviour Science, 2023.
Vinke,C and Blokhuis H., (2012) "Empathy in animals: Rabbit behavior as a case study," Applied Animal Behaviour Science,
McBride, J., (2019) "Behavioral Indicators of Stress in Rabbits in Response to Different Housing Conditions," Applied Animal Behaviour Science