How to Carry a Rabbit

Rabbits require a lot of care and attention and can live up to 10 years. When you want to hold or transport your rabbit, it needs to be handled gently. Improper handling of a rabbit can cause injury to the animal. Since rabbits startle easily, they need to be picked up carefully to prevent injury to yourself as well. Rabbits that are scared may kick, scratch and bite to try to escape. Practice carrying your rabbit so that it remains calm when you have to pick it up.

Instructions

    • 1

      Approach rabbit from the front when you transport it because you can startle the creature. Grab the loose skin and fur in between the shoulder blades on its neck, known as the scruff. Grasp this area firmly with your thumb and index finger.

    • 2

      Place your hand under its hindquarters to support the weight. Support the rabbit's back end with your other hand as you hold onto its scruff to prevent harming the rabbit.

    • 3

      Lift the rabbit with your hands. Place the feet away from you to prevent the rabbit from scratching.

    • 4

      Tuck the rabbit under your arm if you are going to carry it. Place its head under your arm and support the bottom of the rabbit carefully.

    • 5

      Place the rabbit down slowly to prevent startling it. Place the back legs onto a nonslip surface first and then release the rabbit from your grip.