Why Do Rabbits Run Around In Circles In Their Cage: 5 reasons (with proven solution)

Last Updated on March 12, 2023 by Marjon Ramos

My two rabbits, Tyr and Freya, will usually run around in circles in their cages whenever I’m close to them. Rabbits do this behavior whenever they’re excited, which is called “binkies.”

But that’s not all the reasons why a rabbit would run around in circles.

In this article, I’ll talk about the different reasons why your rabbit might be running around its cage in circles. I would also touch on the different solutions to this behavior.

So without further ado, let’s get started.

“Binkies”

Your rabbit might be doing binkies. Binkies are a rabbit behavior where a rabbit jumps up and runs around in excitement.

This behavior usually means that your rabbit is happy and playful. It could also mean that they want to play and are trying to get your attention.

Whatever the case, if your rabbit is just doing binkies, then socialize with your rabbit because, after a few minutes, they’re going back to “sleep mode””.

Your rabbit is excited.

Another reason why your rabbits might be running around their cages is excitement.

Did you notice that your rabbits are doing this behavior whenever you’re around? Maybe when they smell the treats you’re holding?

My two rabbits, Tyr and Freya, often do this running around the cage behavior whenever I’m close to them because they know that I’ll let them out and it’s playtime.

Your rabbit is bored.

Running around their cage could also mean that your rabbit is bored. Rabbits naturally have a lot of energy that needs to be expended somehow.

If your rabbit’s cage is small, and you seldom play with or let your rabbit out, then it’s possible that your rabbit is bored. Rabbits are social creatures and need a lot of attention.

That’s why pet shop owners and vets recommend getting at least two rabbits so they can keep each other company. If it’s not possible for you to get two rabbits, then you have no choice but to give your rabbit enough time each day to avoid boredom.

Your rabbit needs exercise.

Another reason your rabbits are running around in circles in their cages is a lack of exercise. This is a very common problem when it comes to pet rabbits kept in small apartments, where the rabbits are kept in very small cages.

Rabbits in the wild have evolved to graze and run around the whole field all day long. That’s why rabbits that are kept in small cages tend to act out because they’re frustrated from all the unexpended energy.

I suggest giving your rabbits a few hours a day out of their cages to exercise.

Exercise is especially important for rabbits that are not neutered. Unneutered rabbits are naturally more energetic due to hormones.

Your rabbit has reached sexual maturity.

Another possible reason your rabbit is running around in circles is that it has already reached sexual maturity.

Rabbits running around in circles is a common mating behavior. It usually starts happening after a rabbit is sexually mature.

You can tell if this is the case if your rabbit is not neutered.

Summary

Running around in their cages can mean a few things.

First, rabbits running around their cage could be what’s called “binkies.” It’s where rabbits will run around and jump because they are excited.

Second, it could be that your rabbit is excited to see you. Rabbits usually get excited whenever their owners are close to their pens or cages.

Third, it could be that your rabbit is bored and they’re just running around their pens or cages to entertain themselves. This behavior usually happens to rabbits that are alone.

Fourth, it could be that your rabbit has a lot of unused energy and needs to exercise. This typically happens to rabbits that are in their cages for long periods of time.

And finally, your rabbit has already reached sexual maturity. Running around in circles is a common mating and courting behavior for rabbits.

---