Why is my rabbit swaying back and forth?

1. 68

   samanthamjordanposted 10 years ago

   Why is my rabbit swaying back and forth?
   
   He seems to have always done this, and he is definitely not shaking or frightened. But he just sits in his cage and sways at times. Why is that?

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2. 0

   belleartposted 10 years ago

   To my knowledge, this is quite normal.  I've raised a few buns and seen this a lot.  I have a bun who sits up and sways a bit before falling asleep.  I would suggest letting him out of the cage, buns need lots and lots of exercise and can get really bored in cages. 
   Bunnies can really come to life outside of their cages, and when they feel safe are so affectionate, so if hes just sitting there most of the time, then he's probably very bored.

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3. 0

   Stargrrlposted 10 years ago

   I'm not sure.  Perhaps you can look up some books or articles that talk about bunnies.  If you're really concerned, it might be worthwhile to take it to the vet.

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   1. 57

      BellatheBallposted 7 years agoin reply to this

      Your rabbit is under stimulated. Do you ever take it outside on a leash? Let it play in the back yard? Studies have shown that caged animals will display unnatural behavior such as swaying or pacing when kept in a cage and not exercised enough.

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4. 60

   fpherj48posted 10 years ago

   I raised rabbits for 2 years.  I love the babies, which they have tons of...they're SOOOO adorable.
   Sounds to me like you should keep the liquor cabinet locked up!!  LOL
   No?  OK, seriously then, this is a "self-soothing" activity, just like you and I might rock back & forth in a rocking chair....or a cat does the "kneading thing".......

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5. 99

   Theophanesposted 10 years ago

   Does he have pink eyes? Pink-eyed creatures (as well as others) often sway trying to get a fix on what they're looking at because their eyesight is so poor. It could be this, it could be he's really bored and showing signs of "zoonosis" (boredom in captivity) or he could have a medical issue like an ear infection. I would check out those ears either way, make sure there's nothing gushy or smelly or otherwise off inside them. Good luck.

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