Getting a rabbit isn’t always a well-planned, Pinterest-worthy decision. Let me tell you a story. One hot afternoon, my brother handed over two glasses of ganne ka juice (sugarcane juice) to his friend. Sounds normal, right? But in return, his friend gave him two bunnies, a male and a female. No planning. No research. And that’s how I ended up getting my first rabbit (well, two actually).
Their names? Daisy and Shampoo, because one looked like a flower, and the other, like a puff of soapy foam.
Back then, I had no idea what I was doing. I made mistakes, learned a lot, and built trust with them over time. So, if you’re getting your first rabbit or already have one and feel lost, this blog is for you.
1. Rabbits Aren’t Like Dogs or Cats
When I first got Daisy and Shampoo, I thought they’d jump into my arms like a puppy. Nope. They ran under the bed like I was a monster.
Rabbits are prey animals. That means they are naturally scared. If your rabbit doesn’t trust you, they need time and space to feel safe.
2. Trust Takes Time (and Snacks)
You can’t rush a rabbit. I used to chase Shampoo around trying to cuddle him. Big mistake. Later, I learned to just sit near them with treats.
What worked:
- Sitting quietly on the floor
- Offering tiny carrot or banana bits
- Speaking gently
Soon, they started coming to me. That’s when the magic began.
3. Don’t Pick Them Up All the Time
One of the biggest things I wish I had known before getting my rabbit is that rabbits dislike being picked up. It feels like being snatched by a predator.
I used to think cuddling = love. Turns out, trust = love for rabbits. Let them come to you first.
4. They Have Big Personalities
Daisy was the bossy one. Shampoo? A total softie. I never knew rabbits could have such unique personalities.
Getting your first rabbit is like meeting a new roommate, they’re quiet at first, but soon you realize they have opinions (especially about food).
5. Space Matters More Than a Fancy Cage
I had a tiny cage for them. Huge mistake. They need space to run, jump, and zoomie around.
Instead of keeping them caged all day…
Try:
- A playpen setup
- Bunny-proofing a room
- Letting them explore under supervision
6. Loud Noises = Scary Monsters
One time I sneezed loudly near Daisy… she vanished behind the fridge. Rabbits hate sudden sounds.
Tips:
- Keep their area quiet
- Talk softly
- Avoid clapping, yelling, or loud TV
7. Routine Builds Trust
Every morning, I fed them at the same time. Soon, they’d wait near the bowl, excited.
Routine = Safety = Trust
Whether it’s feeding, cleaning, or playtime, keep it consistent.
8. They Need Toys (or They’ll Eat Your Charger)
My laptop cable? Gone. Slippers? Chewed. Before getting my first bunny, I had no idea they needed stimulation.
- Toilet paper rolls
- Wicker baskets
- Cardboard boxes with holes
9. Biting Doesn’t Mean They Hate You
One day, Shampoo bit me when I tried to grab him from behind. It wasn’t hate — it was fear.
Read this, if your Rabbit doesn’t trust you
Biting is communication. They’re saying, “I don’t feel safe.”
Be patient, not angry.
10. You’ll Fall in Love, Slowly but Deeply
The bond you build with a bunny is quiet and beautiful. It’s not instant, but when they trust you, it’s amazing.
Daisy once jumped onto my lap and rested her head. That one moment made every poop-cleaning session worth it.
Final Thoughts of Getting a Rabbit
Getting my first bunny (okay, two!) taught me patience, gentleness, and how to earn love instead of demanding it.
If your rabbit doesn’t trust you, read this whole blog again. Trust takes time, treats, and a lot of floor-sitting. But I promise — it’s worth it.
Quick Actions for Bunny Beginners:
- 📥 Download my FREE Bunny Care Checklist [Coming soon!]
- 📖 Read Bunny Beginner Guide: New Bunny Owner’s Guide – Rabitz
