Expert: Dave Lawrence - 10/21/2009

Question
Hello,

I have a young male rabbit (just over one year old) who has recently been begun displaying some behavioral changes. He is bonded to his sister. I've had both of them since I rescued them at 7 weeks old. They are both spayed/neutered. He has always been an exceptionally outgoing and friendly rabbit, and has always welcomed and sought out a lot of attention from me.

Within the past couple of weeks, he's started acted offended by any attention from me. He has started actually running away from me, which he's never done in the past. He seems put out if I show him attention, and watches me leerily much of the time as if he suspects that I'll pick him up...or worse. I have not changed my behavior nor has anything out of the ordinary happened to trigger this (that I know of...#

Oddly, his sister - who has historically been more standoffish and aloof - has become friendlier recently. I am wondering if it is possible that he is also ignoring her more, which might make her more interested in my attention. #She is the dominant of the pair.)

One final note: Both have always had exemplary litter habits. Within the past week, I've noticed 3 spots of urine on their rug. This has never happened before. I am nearly positive that they are from the young male.

Any thoughts on what might be behind this behavior, and how I should address it?

Thank you!

Answer
hi could it be possible someone else has upset him and now he feels that all adults are bad.
it will take time to regain his confidence in you.just keep an eye on the urine one of them may have a small kidney infection but as long as they are eating and drinking ok iwould not bother.
dave.