What to Expect During the Adjustment Period After Adopting a Bunny.

Trust with a rabbit is earned, not forced.

Bringing a new rabbit home is an exciting and meaningful experience, but it’s also a big change for your bunny. Many rabbits come from situations involving loss, neglect, frequent moves, or limited socialization. Even confident rabbits need time to feel safe in a new environment.

Adoption is not just about giving a rabbit a home, it’s about giving them time, understanding, and compassion. When you honour your bunny’s pace and needs, you create the foundation for a lifelong bond built on trust.

Understanding the 3–3–3 Rule

The 3–3–3 rule helps explain the emotional adjustment timeline many rabbits experience after adoption. Every bunny is different, but this framework offers helpful guidance.

First 3 Days: Decompression - Your bunny is learning

  • New sights, sounds, and smells

  • Who you are

  • Where food, water, and safety are

  • At this stage, your bunny may hide, stay very still, or seem uninterested in you. Focus on:

  • Providing a quiet, calm space

  • Maintaining a consistent routine

  • Allowing your bunny to observe without pressure

  • Avoid handling unless necessary.

First 3 Weeks: Learning the Routine - Your bunny begins to:

  • Recognize daily patterns

  • Explore more confidently

  • Show curiosity or cautious interest

  • Willingly approach you

    You may notice:

  • Improved appetite

  • Early litter box habits

  • Showing their personality

This is a great time to sit quietly on the floor, talk softly, and let your bunny approach you on their terms.

First 3 Months: Feeling at Home - By now many bunnies:

  • Feel safe and secure

  • Trust their environment and caregivers

  • Show affection, playfulness, and confidence

True personality shines during this stage. Bonds deepen, and your bunny begins to see you as part of their safe world.

Remember: this timeline is a guide, not a rule. Some bunnies need more time—and that’s okay.

During the adjustment period your bunny may:

  • Be shy, cautious, or hide often

  • Avoid interaction or run away when approached

  • Appear uninterested in toys or affection

  • Thump, freeze, or seem easily startled

  • Show changes in eating, litter habits, or activity levels

These behaviors are normal and temporary. Rabbits are prey animals, and their instincts tell them to observe quietly before trusting. With time, consistency, and gentle handling, your bunny will begin to relax and show their true personality.

Patience during this stage is one of the most important gifts you can give your new companion.

How to Build a Trusting and Respectful Relationship With Your Bunny

Trust with a rabbit is earned, not forced. A strong bond is built through respect, consistency, and understanding their natural instincts.

  • Sit on the floor and allow your bunny to come to you

  • Avoid chasing, grabbing, or picking your bunny up

  • Respect signals that your bunny needs space

  • Communicate Safety

  • Move slowly and speak gently

  • Approach from the side rather than above

  • Keep interactions calm and predictable

  • Use Positive Associations

  • Offer healthy treats by hand

  • Spend quiet time nearby without expectations

  • Reward bravery with praise or food

Understand Bunny Body Language

  • Relaxed flops and stretched-out poses = comfort

  • Thumping or freezing = fear or uncertainty

  • Gentle nudges or circling = curiosity or affection

Trust doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient. Each small step is a sign your bunny is learning to feel safe. If you ever have questions during your bunny’s adjustment period, your rescue is here to support you every step of the way.