A rabbit’s great sense of hearing is enhanced by ears that can rotate 180 degrees backward and a long, flexible neck. When the rabbit is relaxed, its ears lie back against its head, but when it senses danger, its ears point forward and rotate for extra direction. In addition to rotating their ears, rabbits also move their heads from side to side in order to get a better idea of where the sound is coming from. It is common for rabbits to gesture with their ears when they are happy or content.
Ears that lie close to the head are also sometimes an indicator of ill health in rabbits, especially when accompanied by lethargy and loss of appetite, so if you notice this behavior in your rabbit, speak with your veterinarian immediately.
What do ear twitches mean?
Ear twitching is usually just a simple twitch of the ears. Some rabbits twitch their ears when they are falling asleep or waking up, but this isn’t anything to be worried about. The only time ear twitching should cause concern is if it comes along with drooling and its eyes are half-closed, which could be a sign of epilepsy.
What does it mean when a rabbit’s ears are back?
When a rabbit’s ears are back, it means they are feeling defensive or scared. This is usually accompanied by the rabbit freezing in place and possibly trying to make itself look small. If you see your rabbit’s ears back, it is best to leave them alone for a short while. A defensive or scared rabbit may lash out if its fear intensifies.
Why do rabbits move their heads from side to side?
Rabbits move their heads from side to side in order to get a better idea of where the sound is coming from. This is because they have two ears on each side of their head, so by moving their head around, they can pinpoint the direction of the sound. This is especially useful when trying to identify danger.