Why do my rabbits rub their chins on the furniture?

One of the most curious behaviour of rabbits is their tendency to “chin rubbing” on furniture and objects in their environment. This behavior, knon as “chin rubbing” or “chinning”, may seem odd to us, but it serves important purposes in the rabbit’s world.

Rabbit Territory

Rabbits are known to be territorial animals, and they utilize scent marking as a means to delineate and protect their space. This behavior involves the release of pheromones through specialized scent glands, particularly in the chin, cheeks, anal area, and paw pads.

By rubbing these scent glands against objects or surfaces within their environment, rabbits leave behind olfactory cues that convey information to other rabbits about the ownership of the territory and social status.

When a rabbit engages in scent marking for territorial purposes, they’re effectively communicating messages to other rabbits in the vicinity. These messages can signal ownership, dominance, mating availability, or serve as a warning to potential intruders to stay away.

Rabbit Hierarchies

Rabbits are social animals that naturally form complex social structures within their groups, whether in the wild or in domestic settings. While they may not exhibit dominance in the same overt manner as some other animals, such as dogs or primates, rabbits still establish hierarchies within their groups. These hierarchies are often subtle, based on factors like age, sex, and individual temperament.

Rabbits may rub their chins on objects within their environment as a means of marking territory or asserting dominance. By leaving their scent behind, rabbits communicate their presence and lay claim to their surroundings, subtly reinforcing their position within the social hierarchy.

Chinning for Comfort and Security

Rubbing their chins might also be a way for rabbits to claim familiarity and comfort within their environment. By marking their surroundings with their scent, rabbits can feel secure and assert their ownership of their space.

Rabbits are sensitive animals that can easily become stressed or anxious, particularly in environments with unfamiliar stimuli or changes in routine. Chin rubbing serves as a comforting and soothing behavior that helps rabbits alleviate stress and anxiety. By depositing their scent on familiar objects, rabbits create a sense of familiarity and security in their surroundings, reducing feelings of uncertainty and fear.

Rabbits might mark specific areas or furniture they favor. Through chin rubbing, rabbits indicate a preferred location for resting, exploring, or even as a declaration of ownership within their living environment.

Chin rubbing could serve as a form of social bonding and communication among rabbits. By leaving their scent on shared items, rabbits might be creating a communal scent, fostering a sense of group identity and cohesion within a bonded pair or a group of rabbits.

While scent-making is a normal and instinctive behavior for rabbits, it’s essential to note that excessive marking or sudden changes in scent marking behavior could indicate stress or health issues. If a rabbit suddenly increases marking behaviors or shows other signs of distress, it’s advisable to consult a veterinarian to rule out any underlying health concerns.