If you own a rabbit you will probably have wondered once or twice if they actually sleep, because it seems like they're always awake. Regardless of the species or fur, they're adorable animals who have very interesting behavior.
Of course rabbits sleep, but they do so differently to other more popular pets. This AnimalWised article will unravel the truth about your rabbit's sleeping patterns, and will explain why it is such.
Read on to find out how your rabbit gets its rest:
Do rabbits sleep during the day or night?
Rabbits are crepuscular animals, which means they're most active first thing in the morning and last thing at night. These are the ideal times to play with it and do fun activities.
You should know that a rabbit's survival is down to its permanent state of alertness. This is why it naps at midday or midnight, the quietest times of day, and always does so with discretion.
Do they sleep with their eyes open or closed?
Rabbits are capable of sleeping with their eyes open when they aren't yet comfortable in their new home. This is yet another way of being alert to any danger. It will be difficult for you to see it sleeping for the first few weeks.
Only when the rabbit starts to feel more comfortable and confident in its new home will you be able to see it sleeping peacefully. It will need time, comfort and a quiet place where it feels at ease.
How many hours do rabbits sleep a day?
It's difficult to pinpoint the exact amount of time that a rabbit sleeps for, since it will entirely depend on its state of mind. For example, whether it's relaxed or anxious. However, it's most common for a rabbit to sleep for 6 to 8 hours a day. This can sometimes be extended to 10 hours a day when they're in conditions of optimum calm and relaxation.
As you can see, it's a mammal which likes to relax and sleep when it feels sufficiently comfortable in doing so.
You might also want to know...
One of the most frequently asked questions in the AnimalWised community is how long does a domestic rabbit live for? Before adopting, you must fully understand the importance of caring for an animal right up until its final days.
It's also important to know how and why a rabbit's teeth grow abnormally; a health condition for which it's better to prevent in the first place, rather than try to cure it once it's developed.
At AnimalWised, you'll also find useful information on how to look after them, their diet and their diseases. Find all you need to know about your rabbit here to give it the best care on a day-to-day basis.
If you want to read similar articles to Do Rabbits Sleep?, we recommend you visit our Facts about the animal kingdom category.