I just got a new 2 month old lionhead rabbit yesterday. We call him Gizmo because anytime he stops for more than a few seconds he moves his head robotically side to side. It’s kinda creepy, and my mom suggested that it helps him asses things and see/check out stuff better. I’d like a second opinion.
The "official" term for the behavior is scanning. It tends to run in breeds and it tends to be most strongly associated with ruby eyed animals. It is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about! All our Himalayans do it. Nobody knows exactly why they do it, though most folks agree with your mother’s assessment. And, yes, it is a little creepy until you get used to it!
4 Responses to “Why does my lionhead rabbit move it’s head slowly side to side when he’s resting?”
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November 20th, 2009 at 4:17 pm
I think it’s got Alzheimers deseas!
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November 20th, 2009 at 4:26 pm
My rabbit does this! We took him to the vet and the vet said is was normal- They are just stretching. And after a while it becomes a habit.. Almost like some people click their fingers a lot, so much that they do it all the time.
Anyway don’t worry- My rabbit lived for 15 whole years no problem, so I’m sure Gizmo be just fine!
Good luck. Xx
P.S. I didn’t find it creepy… I though it was hilarious- I even have a youtube video!
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November 20th, 2009 at 4:42 pm
I have 37 rabbits 4 which are Lionheads.
MY Lionheads are the only ones that do that.
They are just looking around. If yours are as hairy as mine you know they need to look side to side just because of the hair. Half the time they can’t see straight so they look sideways. My daughter was scared because she said the Lionhead was watching her. LOL.. I just told her they are doing exactly what your mom said "Scoping things out".
And what I love about the Lionhead breed is they can learn to sit very easily and love baths.
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If you need any ideas about homemade toys just let me know.
November 20th, 2009 at 5:01 pm
The "official" term for the behavior is scanning. It tends to run in breeds and it tends to be most strongly associated with ruby eyed animals. It is perfectly normal and nothing to worry about! All our Himalayans do it. Nobody knows exactly why they do it, though most folks agree with your mother’s assessment. And, yes, it is a little creepy until you get used to it!
References :
40+ years raising and showing rabbits