Rabbit Purring, Teeth Chattering or Clicking

Rabbits communicate mainly through their body language. However, they can also use some vocals cues or sounds to pass messages their handlers, other rabbits or pets. One such way is clicking, purring or teeth chattering.

Meaning

Rabbit purring is a continuous vibratory sound that resembles that of a cat purring. However, unlike cats that use their throat, bunnies make this sound by gently rubbing their teeth against each other hence the use of the term chattering or clicking.

Why does it happen - reasons

Differentiating between purring and teeth grinding is very essential in trying to decode the message your furry critter is trying to pass to you. Both the two involves teeth rubbing.

Normally, while chattering, these pets make quick, soft teeth chattering sound while tooth grinding is louder and slower. Here is what this vocal cue may imply.

Contentment

Purring or gentle chattering often indicates contentment and trust. It often happens when you cuddle or stroke your bunny. This pet is trying to tell ‘I am happy’, I am contented', or ‘ I trust you’.

Since it is a very soft sound, you may not hear it unless you are close to your bunny such as when you want to kiss or snuggle his or her face. You may also notice whiskers and jaws moving slowly as your furry friend clicks his or her teeth softly.

Do not forget that rabbits also twitch their nose and some movements might be normal twitching behavior.

They are comfortable and relaxed

Besides contentment, it may also happen “when they are completely relaxed and comfortable with their environment.” [1] These animals often get relaxed when they trust their environment. They are trying to tell you, ‘I trust you’.

Could I be confusing it with teeth grinding?

Since teeth grinding and purring may closely resemble each other with the only difference being loudness and speed, consider other observable concurrent behaviors.

For instance, hunched postures, not eating, aggression and teeth grinding may indicate pain while if your pet is lying down with its feet stretch out relaxingly, then this sound should be interpreted to mean your bunny is happy or contented.

Conclusion

Correct bunny sound or body language interpretation needs not only to consider the sound or gesture but also the context under which it happens. This will ensure you do not wrongly interpret any of these means of communication or sending messages to you.