Rabbit Test
An important thing to keep in mind when dealing with rabbits is that they survive in the wild by being paranoid and running away from any potential
threat.
Rabbits are not fighters, so they are adapted to flee from predators and are hard-wired to do so.
Thus when seeking to earn the trust of a rabbit, remember that its acceptance of you must occur over the objections of its instincts.
I agree with the idea of letting it roam around the room -- provided there are no ways it can escape, and that it won't be able hide somewhere that
you can't reach. Bear in mind that all rodents are capable of fitting into surprisingly small places, and that rabbits are used to living in
underground burrows.
They also tend to be nocturnal and will usually want to sleep during the day when they can.
If letting it out is not an option now (be advised that rabbits like to chew on things such as electrical cords and computer cables), just let it sit
in its cage, and be sure to keep it well-supplied with water and food. Also, you may want to give the cage a little privacy as long as it doesn't
restrict airflow.
Over time, it will get used to you and realize you're not a threat. This can take several days or even weeks if it's traumatized -- which sounds
like the case here.
Most of all, try to be calm and not panic. Rabbits, being fellow mammals, can sense when you're tense, and it will tend to make them tense.
Just relax and enjoy the process of getting to know a new pet friend!
Caer Free
Oh, but one word of caution. Beware of this particular breed of rabbit:
They are known to be mildly aggressive when approached by people wearing armor.
Stay safe.
[edit on 6/18/2006 by Majic]
!!!! 
