How to Pick Up and Carry a Rabbit Safely

Pick a rabbit up only when you need to, support both the chest and the hindquarters at all times, keep the rabbit close against your body, and stay low to the floor. Never lift a rabbit by the ears or the scruff. If you are unsure, ask a rabbit-savvy vet or nurse to show you in person.

Why technique matters

Rabbits are prey animals, and being lifted can feel like capture. A frightened rabbit may kick powerfully. The House Rabbit Society’s handling guidance stresses supporting the back and rear legs to prevent back injuries, and practicing so the rabbit becomes used to it.

A basic lift

Approach calmly from the side, at floor level.
Place one hand under the chest, behind the front legs.
Place your other hand under the hindquarters, so the back legs and rump are supported.
Lift smoothly and bring the rabbit straight against your body.
Keep it close; a rabbit held away from you feels less secure.

Carrying

Hold the rabbit facing your chest or tucked along your forearm with its head in the crook of your elbow, with the hindquarters always supported. This is sometimes called a “football hold.” Walk slowly and avoid stairs where you can.

Putting the rabbit down

Most falls happen here. Lower the rabbit all the way to the floor, rear end first, and let go only when all four feet are on the ground. Rabbits often try to leap the last few inches.

Better alternatives

Do health checks on the floor or on a non-slip towel on your lap while seated low.
Teach the rabbit to walk into a carrier, using a treat, instead of lifting it in. The House Rabbit Society describes leaving the carrier open in the rabbit’s area so it becomes familiar.
Children should sit on the floor and let the rabbit come to them, not carry it.

What not to do

Do not lift by the ears or scruff.
Do not let the hindquarters dangle.
Do not turn a rabbit on its back to make it go still. The House Rabbit Society advises that this “trancing” should not be done; it is widely understood as a fear response, not relaxation.
Do not chase and grab.

Ask for a demonstration

Handling is easiest to learn by watching. At the first vet visit, ask the vet or nurse to show you a lift that suits your rabbit’s size. Large breeds and rabbits with arthritis may need a different approach.

Sources

Care information here is drawn from these welfare and veterinary-reviewed sources. Ask a rabbit-savvy vet about your own rabbit.