Why Do Bunnies Pancake When You Pet Them?

A common question new rabbit parents have is, “Do bunnies like to be pet?” The short answer: many of them do, especially after you learn their favorite spots and how to read their body language.

One clear sign your rabbit is loving the attention is when they pancake, or flatten out on the floor like a relaxed, fluffy puddle. It’s their way of saying, “Don’t stop. You’ve found the spot.”

So, how exactly should you pet your bunny, and how (beyond pancaking) can you tell if they’re enjoying it? Which areas do rabbits enjoy being petted, and which ones are best to avoid? Keep reading for answers to these questions and more.

Do bunnies like to be petted?

Amy Pratt, founder of Bunny Lady, says that although some rabbits dislike being touched, they’re the exception rather than the rule. Bunnies socialized with people from a young age often enjoy petting. She also notes that adult bunnies who didn’t have a lot of socialization with people can warm up once they learn their caretaker isn’t a threat.

Angela Cooper, director of All Ears Rabbit Rescue, echoes this, explaining that a rabbit’s comfort with petting varies from bunny to bunny. This is typically shaped by factors such as upbringing, personality, and other animals they were raised with. At her rescue, she’s seen it all: rabbits who avoid touch, others who merely tolerate it, and those who actively seek attention, hopping into laps and nudging for more affection.

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Where do bunnies like to be petted?

Rabbits can be a little picky about where they like to be petted, but most have a few “sweet spots” they almost always enjoy:

• The bridge of the nose

• The forehead

• Just behind the ears

Many bunnies also appreciate:

• Gentle strokes down their back

• Light rubs on their ears

• Pets right between the ears

• Gentle cheek rubs

Areas to avoid when petting a rabbit

Not every spot is fair game, though. Rabbits have a few sensitive areas where petting is usually unwelcome.

• Belly and chest: Even if your bunny flops over, the belly and chest are vulnerable spots and usually off-limits.

• Under the chin: Petting directly under the chin is rarely appreciated.

• Feet: A rabbit’s quick feet are their best defense, so most don’t like them being touched.

• Rear end: Steer clear of the area near the tail.

How to pet a rabbit

Petting a rabbit isn’t the same as petting a dog or cat. Rabbits have their own rules of comfort and trust. Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

• Let them come to you: Don’t chase or grab your rabbit. Sit quietly and allow them to approach you when they’re ready.

• Start with safe spots: The forehead and behind the ears are usually the best places to begin. Once your bunny is comfortable, you can gently try other areas to see where they enjoy touch. 

• Use short, gentle strokes: Rabbits prefer slow, short, calm pets rather than rough, long, or rapid motions.

• Don’t pick them up: As prey animals, bunnies typically don’t like being picked up, because this can feel threatening. Most prefer to stay on the ground. 

• Respect boundaries: Some bunnies simply don’t like being pet, and this should never be forced upon them. That said, Pratt notes that in some cases, you can teach a hesitant rabbit to tolerate (or even enjoy) touch by pairing gentle petting with treats. Over time, this positive reinforcement helps bunnies feel more comfortable with touch. 

• Avoid their blind spot: The space right in front of a rabbit’s mouth is difficult for them to see. Approaching them from this angle can feel startling or uncomfortable.

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How to tell if a rabbit enjoys being petted

Rabbits may not wag their tails like dogs or purr from their voice box like cats, but they have their own ways of showing they’re happy with your attention. Signs your bunny is enjoying the petting session include the following.

• Pancaking: When a rabbit flattens against the ground, Cooper says it usually means they feel comfortable, safe, and relaxed.

• Tooth purring: If you hear gentle clicking or chattering of their teeth, that’s your rabbit’s way of telling you they’re happy. It’s the equivalent of a cat’s purr. 

• Closing their eyes: A rabbit who closes their eyes while being petted is signaling that they feel calm and secure.

• Leaning in: When a bunny presses their head or body into your hand, it’s a request for more petting.

• Loafing: When a rabbit sits with their legs tucked neatly under their body (resembling a little loaf of bread), it’s called the loaf position. This is a sign your bunny feels safe, calm, and content.

• Flopping: A rabbit who flops onto their side while you’re petting them is showing complete contentment and trust.

On the flip side, if your rabbit pulls away, flicks their ears back, thumps, or hops off, it’s their way of saying they’re not interested in petting or have had enough. Respecting these signals helps build trust and keeps petting a positive experience. 

Commonly asked questions

Why does my rabbit flatten when I pet them?

This behavior, called “pancaking,” means your rabbit feels safe and relaxed. 

Why does my bunny grind their teeth when I pet them?

Soft teeth grinding, often called “tooth purring,” is the equivalent of a cat’s purr. It’s a sign your bunny is content and enjoying the petting session.

What noise does a bunny make when they’re happy?

A happy rabbit may gently chatter their teeth or occasionally sigh.  

Do rabbits like belly rubs?

Most rabbits do not enjoy belly rubs. The belly is a sensitive, vulnerable area, and touching it can make them anxious. Stick to safer spots, such as the forehead, ears, and back. 

Should I adopt a rabbit?

Rabbits can be great pets, but they’re not low-maintenance, as many people believe. They require proper nutrition, daily exercise, social interaction, and enrichment to stay healthy and happy. Be sure to do your research before adopting one to determine if you can provide the care they need for their entire life. 

References

Hart, Julie. “How to Pet Your Rabbit.” Erie Area Rabbit Society and Rescue (EARS), www.eriearearabbitsociety.org/2023/02/04/how-to-pet-your-rabbit. 

“Pet Rabbit Body Language and Bunny Behavior.” Best Friends Animal Society, bestfriends.org/pet-care-resources/pet-rabbit-body-language-and-bunny-behavior.

Pratt, Amy. “My Rabbit Doesn’t Like to Be Touched! How to Desensitize Your Rabbit.” The Bunny Lady, bunnylady.com/doesnt-like-to-be-touched.