Every pet owner has his preference, and some prefer small rabbit breeds to cuddle. If you’re interested in acquiring a small bunny, we encourage you to keep on reading here as we will discuss the various breeds, their temperaments and what makes them great cuddlers!
Which small rabbit breeds enjoy cuddling?
Your own experience may have already taught you that not all rabbits like to be handled. Some breeds are more congenial and sociable than others. Here we will focus on the small breeds that enjoy the touch of humans.
Jersey Wooly
This fluffy guy comes in at around 2-3/4 to 3-1/2 pounds as an adult bun. They have long thick fur and require extensive grooming, which actually provides an excellent opportunity for bonding. These rabbits come in an assortment of patterns and colours.
They have an extremely calm personality that augers well for cuddling. They are an excellent pet for children since they are not biters.
American Fuzzy Lop
This small rabbit breed weighs 3-4 pounds as an adult. Their faces are flat and kind of remind you of a bulldog, which can be a great conversation starter.
They require a good deal of grooming, their fur tends to get matted without the required attention. However, they absolutely love the process because it is an opportunity to spend time with you. The breed was a wonderful personality and loves people. They are playful in nature and love tricks and toys.
Lionhead Rabbits
These guys are really popular with pet owners. They reach up to about 3-1/2 pounds. These adorable bunnies have a mane of fur around their head, hence the name “Lionhead”. The fur on the rest of their buddy is shorter than the mane. They do require some extra grooming for their mane and their moulting pattern. They moult about three times per year.
They are known to be very affectionate and loves to be touched and cuddled. They usually seek their owners out when they get home for their attention. They make great playmates. Your interaction with Lionheads is bound to be fun since they are fond of games and tricks. They are usually sorted after in the pet stores.
Himalayan Rabbits
These rabbits can weigh anywhere between 2- 4 1/2 pounds. They are predominantly white like a Himalayan cat with varying colours on their tails, feet, ears, and noses. Himalayans are less compact than other small bunnies.
These rabbits have wonderful personalities. They are generally laidback and enjoy cuddle sessions. They make wonderful pets, and they are considered one of the best breeds for small children. Fortunately, they don’t mind all the touching and petting that comes little ones.
Mini Rex
These bunnies are about 2-3/4-4-1/2 pounds full grown. Mini rexes have a velvety coat and feel amazing to the touch.
They are calm, engaging and great company. However, we would not recommend them if you have small children in the home. They can get quite overwhelmed by all the attention. They prefer adult companions and will thrive in an adult only or older children home.
Dutch Rabbits
The Dutch rabbit is on the larger end of the spectrum of the small rabbit category. They weigh up to 5-1/2 pounds.
They are very popular pets and have wonderful temperaments. They love cuddles and are excellent with children.
They require regular exercise so even though they are small buns they need a decent amount of space.
What makes a rabbit a good cuddler?
If you are looking for a small rabbit that is also a good cuddler, it comes down to two main factors temperament and environment. Let’s explain.
Temperament
Even though rabbits are relatively quiet creatures that have huge personalities. You may have 2 rabbits and their likes and dislikes may differ greatly. Some rabbits love being touched and actually seek out human interaction. Others may become skittish in the company of humans, especially strangers. It is advised that you take the time to get to know your rabbit, this way you will know how to treat her. You will also know how to approach her on the cuddle front.
Environment
Before you get to the cuddles, it helps to create an environment that your rabbit is comfortable in.
Firstly, you should make sure that your rabbit has enough space. Fortunately, small rabbits don’t require too much space, but they still need enough. Their cage or hutches should be kept clean with fresh straw. Adequate bedding is important so that your rabbit can have something to chew on as they rest and relax. You can also buy a straw mat if you prefer. If your rabbit is happy in his environment, he will be less skittish.
Rabbits are not fond of loud noises, so you should be mindful of this when you are playing your television, using machinery and any other activities that may be noisy.
We also recommend providing enough stimulation, in the form of toys and activities. Rabbits have enquiring minds and love novel toys and obstacle courses. A rabbit who has settled into a comfortable home environment may very well be ready to cuddle.
What are the signs that a rabbit wants to cuddle?
Bunnies can be quite expressive when they want your attention. Small breeds are known to be more energetic than their laid-back larger counterparts.
When your small breed rabbit is ready for cuddles you might be treated to a display of the following:
- Binkies – This usually means that your rabbit is in a good mood. It also means he loves you and is not afraid to show it. Binkies are elaborate jumps and flips in the air that are a delight to watch.
- Licking – If you rabbit licks you, she is showing you affection. Grooming is a social activity and is an expression of endearment. So, if you are being licked, your rabbit is initiating a cuddle session.
- Nudges – Bunnies sometimes use their nose to get your attention. He probably wants you to pet him. However, sometimes it is a sign that they want you to get out of the way. As such, you should try to read his mood.
Do rabbits get tired of too much cuddling?
Yes, your rabbit may get overstimulated. When it comes to cuddling always take your cues from your rabbit.
If he wants the cuddle session to stop, he may:
- Hop off your lap
- Run away into a corner
- Try to bite you.
All of these are signs that your rabbit has had enough contact for now.
How do safely cuddle a small rabbit?
Cuddling should be an enjoyable experience for both you and your rabbit. You should always be gentle with bunnies and you should be even more so with small rabbits, considering their delicate skeletal structure.
We have provided a step-by-step guide to safe rabbit cuddling:
Step 1 – Take it slow
Some pet owners get caught up in the moment when they get a rabbit and want to cuddle as soon as they take their bunnies home. You need to give your rabbits time to get used to you and their new environment. It can be very overwhelming. You need to always bear in mind that rabbits are prey animals and by nature, they are always on the lookout for danger. Your first act should be to build trust. This takes time.
You should approach your rabbit’s cage slowly, allowing her to see you. If she is napping gently call her name to announce your presence.
Step 2 – Gentle petting
The best place to start petting your rabbit is along her side or her back. You should never approach your bunny from the front since she has a blind spot, and you may startle her. This will put her into survival mode and your chances for a cuddle session will be slim to none.
Step 3 – Invite your rabbit onto your lap
The best way to do this is to sit on the floor and encourage your bunny to come into your lap. This strategy is recommended instead of lifting your rabbit. A rabbit finds being lifted quite disconcerting. This is because it is quite similar to a predator swooping down and taking them away. So, call your rabbit’s name and coax them into your lap. Some rabbits may jump into the lap on their own or you can get creative by offering a treat.
Once your rabbit is in your lap, you can start the cuddling. With a small breed rabbit, you should try gentle stroking and scratches. Look at your rabbit to see what type of touch she is most responsive to.
Remember, it may take several attempts before rabbits actually make it into their owners’ laps. However, you should not take it personally. This process takes time and eventually your rabbit will learn to trust you and you will be cuddling your small breed rabbit in no time.
So, we have established that small breed rabbits are good cuddlers. The breeds above are a great place to start. The most important thing to remember is to be patient and gentle with your small breed buddies.
