50 Times Bunnies Acted Like Such Jerks, Their Owners Had To Expose Them Online (New Pics)

The 2024 Bird, Small Animal & Horse Report released by the American Pet Products Association (APPA) showed that rabbits are actually growing in popularity among pet owners.

According to the American Veterinary Medical Association (AVMA), they're still behind dogs, cats, fish, reptiles, birds, and small mammals (gerbils, hamsters, etc.), but currently, about 0.9 million U.S. households have at least one bunny.

But that doesn't mean you should get one too. As you can see from the pictures, bunnies aren't for everyone.

Paige K. Parsons, a house-rabbit educator for over three decades and co-founder and president of the Rabbit.org Foundation, says caring for bunnies in the house involves a significant amount of time and thoughtful attention, as well as a heap of knowledge and patience.

"From their space requirements to their need for socialization and bunny-proofing, there's more to these fluffy companions than meets the eye," she says.

One thing people don't fully realize is that rabbits try to munch on pretty much everything.

Parsons explains that while chewing is a completely normal, natural, and enjoyable activity for rabbits, researchers and behaviorists claim the number one reason people surrender them to shelters and rescue groups is "destructiveness."

Without outlets to climb on, crawl under, hop on and around, dig into, and—yes—chew on, they may become overweight and sad.

"During their energetic playtimes, rabbits doing those cute 'zoomies' might knock over their food and water dishes, spreading the contents across their enclosure."

"Additionally, their shedding fur, especially during molting seasons, can contribute to the mess, requiring frequent cleanups to maintain a tidy environment," Parsons says.

They also don't want as much physical contact as, say, dogs. "Most rabbits naturally prefer to keep their feet on the ground and may not enjoy being picked up, cuddled, or held," Parsons adds.

"This preference stems from their instincts as prey animals; in the wild, being lifted off the ground typically signals danger, such as being caught by a predator. Consequently, even domestic rabbits often retain this instinctual fear."

Since rabbits can feel vulnerable and scared when lifted or held, they might try to "escape," which can sometimes result in injury to either the animal or the person handling them. "Rabbits may kick powerfully with their hind legs, risking spinal injuries for themselves or scratches and bruises for humans," Parsons explains.

However, this doesn’t mean they aren't affectionate! Rabbits express their fondness for their humans in subtler ways. "Rabbits may enjoy sitting beside you, gently nudging you with their nose, or even hopping onto your lap on their terms. They also show affection through licking, a sign of grooming and bonding in the rabbit world."