How Long Do Rabbits Sleep?

Last Updated on March 17, 2023 by Marjon Ramos

Rabbit’s sleeping duration is similar to humans. In fact, it’s estimated that rabbits sleep for 8.4 -11 hours a day. But, rabbits sleep in small bursts due to the fact that their senses are active even when they’re sleeping.

Rabbits are “crepuscular” creatures, meaning they are most active at dusk and dawn and they mostly sleep/rest in between those hours.

Now that I’ve given you the gist of the article, read on as I explain in more detail how long do rabbits sleep:

How long do wild rabbits sleep?

Wild rabbit’s sleep duration would depend on their current environment/stress level. If they’re underground or well hidden, they would get more sleep because they would be more relaxed.

While wild rabbits that are trying to sleep in an open field would need to be alert for potential dangers. That’s why rabbits developed the “loaf position” so that they can quickly run away at the first sign of danger even when they’re resting.

The “loaf position” is when a rabbit is sleeping on its feet. Just like this:

How long does pet rabbits sleep?

Pet rabbits’ sleep duration would also depend on how comfortable they are in their environment. When a pet rabbit is moved to a new home/environment, you would notice that they would always check the place out for potential dangers.

That’s why it’s important that you let your rabbits scout the place whenever you move apartments. This would put your rabbit’s mind at ease that no predators would harm them while they’re resting.

You can tell that your rabbit is comfortable with your place if they’re sleeping on their side with their eyes fully closed. You would also notice that their nose would stop wiggling while they’re sleeping peacefully.

But all in all, pet rabbits would sleep for about 8.4-11 hours in total. Remember rabbits are crepuscular, meaning they are active at dusk and dawn and they get their 8 hours of sleep in between those hours.

How much sleep do rabbits need?

You should let your rabbits decide on how much sleep they need. Rabbits use the sun to determine when to sleep and when to wake up so make sure that you’re not blocking your rabbit’s access to sunlight for long periods of time. Doing so could lead to confusion and stress.

As long as your rabbit is not stressed or in pain, then your rabbit can decide on how much sleep they need for the day. But on average, a rabbit would sleep for 8.4-11 hours per day between their active time or at dusk and dawn.

Does all rabbit breeds sleep the same amount?

Yes, rabbits, in general, would sleep for about 8.4-11 hours per day. The amount of sleep a rabbit would get per day is not really a matter of breed but on how comfortable/healthy they are.

A rabbit that’s sick or in pain would sleep less regardless of breed. While a rabbit that’s cautious of its environment would also sleep less.

That’s why it’s important to make your rabbits comfortable with your home if they’re new to it or if you have any other pets like a dog or a cat.

This would make your rabbit extremely stressed out and some rabbits can even die from a heart attack if they’re startled by a barking dog.

You can make your rabbits comfortable with your home by letting them explore it and providing treats. You also need to train your other pets to not harm your rabbit.

Conclusion

A rabbit’s sleep duration is dependant on the rabbit’s environment and stress level. But on average, rabbits sleep for 8.4-11 hours per day in between their active time or at dusk and dawn.

Make sure that your rabbit is comfortable with your home and train your other pets not to harm/scare your rabbits. This would make your rabbit more relaxed and in turn make their sleep better.

You should give your rabbits access to sunlight because they use it to determine when to sleep and when to wake up. Blocking sunlight for long periods of time could confuse and stress out your rabbits.

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