🐇 Why Proper Handling Matters

Rabbits are prey animals with delicate spines. If not supported correctly, they can kick out, risking serious injury—such as spinal fractures. Even accidental drops from a height of a couch can cause harm :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}.

Additionally, improper handling can stress your rabbit, damaging the trust you've built.

🧘 Build Trust Before Lifting

• Allow your rabbit to approach you on their terms.
• Offer treats as you gently place hands on their chest and rump—reward even if you don’t lift :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}.
• Start with short sessions—lift for 20–30 seconds, then return to the ground and reward :contentReference[oaicite:5]{index=5}.

👍 Step-by-Step Pick-Up Technique

1. **Approach slowly and calmly**—no looming hands or sudden movements :contentReference[oaicite:6]{index=6}.
2. **Support the chest**: slide one hand under the front legs and chest—index finger on chest forms a harness :contentReference[oaicite:7]{index=7}.
3. **Support the hind end**: scoop with your other hand under their belly/rump—secure back legs :contentReference[oaicite:8]{index=8}.
4. **Lift and hold close**: bring them upright against your chest—your body supports them and adds security :contentReference[oaicite:9]{index=9}.
5. **Set down carefully**: squat or kneel, then loosen your grip and let them hop off—no sudden releases :contentReference[oaicite:10]{index=10}.

📏 'Football' Carry for Nervous Bunnies

This style helps calm anxious rabbits:

• Support chest as described, scoop hind legs with the other hand.
• Tuck them close to your body, foreleg tucked into your arm—covering the eyes may reduce stress :contentReference[oaicite:11]{index=11}.

🚫 Handling Mistakes to Avoid

• Never lift by ears or scruff—painful and injurious :contentReference[oaicite:12]{index=12}.
• Don't hold upside down—this can cause stress or shock :contentReference[oaicite:13]{index=13}.
• Avoid long holding sessions—short interactions prevent negative associations :contentReference[oaicite:14]{index=14}.

👐 Putting Your Rabbit Down Safely

1. Lower yourself near the ground, still supporting chest & rear.
2. Lower into a squat—gentle and controlled.
3. Let them hop off facing you—it helps reduce panic and rushing away :contentReference[oaicite:15]{index=15}.

🎁 Training Tips & Behavior Notes

• Use a calm voice, say “calm,” and hold gently if they squirm—repeat until relaxed, then place them down :contentReference[oaicite:16]{index=16}.
• Many rabbits never fully enjoy being held—which is normal; limit handling to necessary times :contentReference[oaicite:17]{index=17}.
• Use treat-based desensitization—short, positive pick-ups build tolerance :contentReference[oaicite:18]{index=18}.

📦 Using a Carrier Instead

Frequent pick-ups can stress rabbits. Train them to enter their carrier voluntarily:

• Leave the carrier open and familiar in their space.
• Entice with treats—pellets, hay, or favorite snacks :contentReference[oaicite:19]{index=19}.
• Consider towels or ‘bunny burrito’ methods for transport into carriers safely :contentReference[oaicite:20]{index=20}.

📋 Quick Reference Table

🧠 Vet Tips for 2025

• Always support both chest and hind end.
• Cover their eyes if they panic—it calms them.
• Prioritize carriers and minimal handling unless necessary.
• Reward every calm interaction to reinforce trust.
• Be patient—each rabbit is unique; progress may be slow.

📌 Final Takeaway

In 2025 and beyond, safe rabbit handling means supporting their fragile bodies, respecting their instincts, and building respectful trust. With gentle, informed techniques and thoughtful training, you can reduce stress while ensuring your bunny stays safe during vet visits, grooming, and transport. You’ll both benefit from calm, confident handling. 🐇❤️

🔗 Partner Services

• Ask A Vet: Get live video support for handling demos, stress-reduction strategies, and vet procedures.
• Woopf: Find soft carriers and handling mats designed for safe transport.
• Purrz: Calm herbal mist sprays and treats to soothe rabbits during handling sessions.