1. Fear or Stress: Rabbits are prey animals and can quickly become stressed or scared when they perceive danger or any disturbance in their environment. Squealing and running around is often a sign that your rabbit feels unsafe. This can happen when you suddenly approach them, make loud noises, or introduce new people or objects into their territory.
2. Pain: Squealing can also indicate that your rabbit is experiencing pain or discomfort. If you notice the squealing is accompanied by other signs of distress such as limping, difficulty moving, or hunched posture, it’s important to take them to a rabbit-savvy veterinarian for immediate attention.
3. Excitement: On some occasions, squealing and running around may be a display of excitement or happiness. This is more likely if the behavior is accompanied by other positive body language such as hopping, jumping, or ear wiggling.
It’s important to context and other accompanying behaviors to correctly understand why your rabbit is squealing and running around. If you’re concerned that the squealing may indicate pain or distress, it’s always a good idea to have your rabbit checked by a veterinarian.