How to Pick Up a Rabbit Correctly

May 27, 2026

Introduction

Picking up a rabbit incorrectly is one of the most common causes of injury in pet rabbits. Rabbits have powerful hind legs and fragile spines — if they kick out while being held unsafely, they can break their own back. Here's a complete guide on how to pick up a rabbit correctly and keep both you and your bunny safe.

Why Rabbits Dislike Being Picked Up

Rabbits are prey animals. Being lifted off the ground triggers their instinct that they've been caught by a predator. Even well-bonded, friendly rabbits may struggle when picked up. This is completely normal — it doesn't mean your rabbit doesn't like you. It means they're a rabbit.

The goal is not to force your rabbit to enjoy being held, but to handle them safely when necessary and to minimize the need for picking up by spending time at floor level instead.

Before You Pick Up Your Rabbit

Make sure your rabbit is calm and aware of your presence — never sneak up on them
Approach slowly and speak softly
Let your rabbit sniff your hand first
Never pick up a rabbit that is actively running away or thumping

Step-by-Step: How to Pick Up a Rabbit Correctly

Approach from the side or front — Never from above, which mimics a predator attack
Place one hand under the chest — Support the front of the body just behind the front legs
Place the other hand under the hindquarters — This is the most critical step. The back end must always be supported. An unsupported rear end is what causes rabbits to kick and injure themselves.
Lift smoothly and confidently — Hesitant, slow lifts give the rabbit time to struggle. Lift in one smooth motion.
Bring the rabbit against your body immediately — Hold them securely against your chest or tuck them under your arm with their head facing backward (the "football hold"). The contact with your body provides security.
Keep the hindquarters supported at all times — Never let the back legs dangle freely

Safe Holds for Rabbits

Chest hold — Rabbit faces forward against your chest, one hand under the bottom, one hand supporting the back
Football hold — Rabbit tucked under your arm like a football, head toward your elbow, bottom supported by your hand. Great for nervous rabbits as it limits their vision.
Lap hold — Sit on the floor and place the rabbit in your lap rather than lifting them at all. This is the safest option for most interactions.

How to Put a Rabbit Down Safely

Lower your rabbit slowly toward the ground. As soon as their feet touch the surface, release them — don't hold on as they push off. A rabbit pushing off from a height can injure themselves. Always lower them to a safe, non-slip surface.

What NOT to Do

Never pick up a rabbit by the ears — this is extremely painful and can cause permanent injury
Never pick up a rabbit by the scruff of the neck
Never hold a rabbit on their back ("trancing") for extended periods — this is a fear response, not relaxation
Never let children pick up rabbits unsupervised

Building Comfort Over Time

The more positive experiences your rabbit has with handling, the more tolerant they'll become. Use treats like natural chew sticks to reward calm behavior during and after handling. Spend most of your bonding time at floor level to reduce the need for picking up altogether.

Conclusion

Picking up a rabbit correctly is a skill that takes practice but is essential for their safety. Always support the hindquarters, lift confidently, and keep your rabbit close to your body. When in doubt, sit on the floor and let your rabbit come to you instead.

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