
Rabbit noises, although subtle, are an important way for a rabbit to communicate. Rabbits are often seen as quiet, gentle creatures, but they actually have a surprisingly rich vocabulary of sounds that reveal their emotions and needs. From soft purrs of contentment to sudden thumps of alarm, each noise serves as a window into your rabbit’s world. Understanding these sounds can help you build a stronger bond with your bunny and ensure their health and happiness. Whether you’re a new rabbit owner or an experienced caretaker, decoding these vocal cues of expression and communication is essential for providing the best care possible.
Decoding Rabbit Noises
Decoding rabbit noises involves spending time with your rabbit and getting to know his or her specific noises. Noises will be able to help you understand their needs and emotions better. A soft purring noise, often created by gently grinding their teeth, usually signals contentment and relaxation, much like a cat’s purr. On the other hand, loud thumping with their hind legs indicates fear, stress, or a warning of potential danger. Grunting or growling can express annoyance or territorial behavior, especially if a rabbit feels threatened or disturbed. High-pitched squeals, though rare, are a sign of extreme pain or fear and should be taken seriously.
Happy Noises
These are the bunny sounds that will let you know your bunny feels safe, happy and content with life.

Clucking: This is a soft gentle noise similar to a hiccup and is often heard while a bunny is eating.
Honking: Occasional chirping or honking sounds can occur during moments of excitement or playfulness. In rabbits that have not been fixed, honking can accompany circling and grunting…this means the bun is a courting! (or as House Rabbit Society puts it…horny!)
Humming: This is not too common, but seen in unaltered males when he is in “the mood” to woo a female!
Purring: Bunnies often purr when they are content and relaxed. It’s a soft, rhythmic noise that can be heard (and felt) when they are being petted or are in a comfortable environment. Unlike cats that purr from their throat, bunnies use their teeth to create the same effect.
Sighing: This is usually one big exhale that a rabbit willl make when it feels content..
Sleep Talking: This can often sound like a baby having a dream and letting out a slight mumbling sound. If you look closely at your bun, you will probably even see it’s mouth moving!
Snoring: Is just that! It can typically occur when they feel completely safe and are deeply relaxed. My snoring bunny is often louder than the tv!!
Unhappy Rabbit Noises
These noises are ones your rabbit will make to let you know they are unhappy, mildly irritated or full on angry or scared. Some can even be warnings of danger.

Growling or Grunting: When rabbits feel threatened or are annoyed, they may emit low growling or grunting sounds. This is a sign that they want to be left alone. It can be accompanied by a thump or even lead to a lunge or a bite.
Hiccups: This is your rabbits way of letting you know he or she ate too fast and doesn’t feel good. It is having a muscle spasm in it’s diaphragm and the excess swallowed air is expelled through hiccups. If it clears up after 20 minutes or so and only happens on occasion, there is nothing to worry about. But if it happens continually, your bun should be seen by a vet, (Note: if your bun is a fast eater, try a forage mat or a food puzzle toy to slow them down.)
Hissing: Hissing is not a typical vocalization for rabbits. If a rabbit hisses, it may be feeling extremely threatened or frightened.
Sighing: Unlike the happy sigh, this can be one of irritation such as when being groomed.
Snorting: Bun is starting to get irritated. This can often lead to or accompany growling.
Thumping: Bunnies have powerful hind legs and will thump them on the ground when agitated, nervous or fearful. Besides thumping when displeased, bunnies will thump to let others know danger is afoot. Trust me you will know when you hear a thump…it can be very loud!
Whimpering: Pregnant rabbits may whimper at being held because it is uncomfortable. A female may also whimper if not interested in a males advances. (This I have witnessed first hand on many occasion). You may also hear this noise if you try to cuddle your bun and he or she does not want to.
Distressful Noises
The previously discussed noises are ways rabbits communicate their feelings, however the following noises are a rabbit’s way of letting you know that something is physically wrong. If you ever hear any one of these bunny sounds, you need to get to an exotic vet immediately!

Screaming: In severe distress or pain, rabbits may let out high-pitched squeals or screams. This indicates a serious problem and unfortunately some rabbits make this noise right before passing.
Sneezing: Just like humans, rabbits can sneeze occasionally. Frequent or persistent sneezing may indicate respiratory issues or allergies, so it’s important to monitor this and seek veterinary care if needed.
Teeth Grinding: Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, can be a sign of pain, discomfort, or dental issues. Often bunny will be sitting in a hunched position when making this sound. Note: This is a much louder grittier sound than the soft “purring” noise a bunny makes when it is happy.
Wheezing: This sounds like your bunny has labored breathing and can be a sign of respiratory distress.
Whimpering: Some rabbits may whimper or whine when they are not feeling well or are in discomfort. It’s important to pay attention to these sounds as they can indicate health issues.
Final Thoughts…
By paying close attention to the variety of sounds your rabbit makes, you can gain valuable insight into their feelings and well-being. Recognizing the difference between a happy purr and a distressed grunt allows you to respond appropriately, strengthening the trust and connection between you and your pet. Every thump, growl, or gentle hum tells a story—one that, when understood, leads to a more fulfilling and compassionate relationship with your rabbit.
Sources:
- McLaughlin, Chris “10 Sounds That Rabbits Make and What They Mean” 6/26/2024 The Spruce Pets
- All Things Rabbits “Bunny Behavior”
- Espie, Amy “Reading Your Rabbits Behavior” Rabbit.org
- Amy “15 Sounds Rabbits Make and What They Mean”, The Bunny Lady