Q&A for How to Pet a Rabbit

As a prey species, if a rabbit feels threatened then they will run away from the danger. Don't try to stop the rabbit from fleeing as this will only add to their stress and anxiety. Instead, spend time sitting quietly beside the hutch so the rabbit gets used to your presence. From time to time post tasty treats into the hutch so the rabbit links you to good things. Be prepared for the long haul and do this a couple of times a day for as long as it takes.

If your rabbit gets fresh fruit and veg, or eats fresh growing grass then he's getting fluid from these sources. As he's a healthy one-year-old rabbit you don't need to worry; however, make sure he always has access to fresh water just in case.

Thumping the ground with a back foot is a rabbit's way of alerting others in the warren of danger. It is a rabbit way of signalling, "Watch out!"

Rabbits are prone to panic when bathed, as they can't lift their heads up. Their faces are very close to the water, which makes them fearful of drowning. Also, they are prone to chilling, so use warm water and towel-dry them well. Bathe the rabbit in a large plastic bowl, and put a book under one end to create a deep and a shallow end. Put the rabbit's head at the shallow end, and then scoop water gently over his body.