Lionhead Rabbit Sleeping Habits – How Much do They Sleep?
If you are new to having a lionhead rabbit around your home, you have probably noticed its funny sleeping habits. Some owners report their rabbits are not sleeping at all, while others swear their pets are sleeping all the time.
The real situation is most likely somewhere in between, so here is all you need to know about lionhead rabbit sleeping habits.
These timid animals are natural prays to many predators in the wild, both nocturnal and diurnal, so they have adapted their routine to avoid them. That includes having special sleeping hours, but also positions.
Indeed, rabbits are light sleepers and they often tend to briefly rest in such positions which allow them a super-quick reaction once another animal approaches.
When do Lionhead Rabbits Sleep?
Rabbits are crepuscular, which means they are most active at dusk and dawn, when there is not much darkness but neither daylight. All that is between such hours is a great time for sleeping, eating, playing or cuddling.
Your lionhead rabbit can therefore sleep for some time during the night and again during the afternoons. Domestic rabbits in particular seem to be sleeping irregularly.
Unfortunately, there is no way of predicting or defining exactly when is your rabbit going to sleep. However, one thing is sure: your pet will be most active at dusk and dawn. Their instinct simply tells them that these are the safest times of all.
In the wild, rabbits manage to avoid nocturnal and diurnal predators by hiding and sleeping when these animals are in their hunt games. That said, dim light is ideal to keep rabbits in the move, as both nocturnal and diurnal hunters will not be able to see at best.
Apart from that, domestic lionhead rabbits can basically sleep whenever they feel to.
How Many Hours do Lionhead Rabbits Sleep?
Similar to their human owners, lionhead rabbits need about 8 hours of sleep each day. However, that does not mean that rabbits usually sleep 8 hours in a row.
Instead, they prefer taking smaller naps through the day, but also during the darkest hours of the night. Rabbits who feel really safe around their owners can often sleep for even 12 hours each day.
Additionally, you may notice different sleeping positions which are related to the deepness of their sleep. For instance, if your pet takes a ˝loaf˝ position with all legs tucked below the body and hunkered down, it is resting but it is also being super-aware of everything around.
Such position allows rabbits to get up in no-second-time and start running immediately if they need to. On the other side, if you see your furry pet throw itself on side from a standing position, you can take it as a huge compliment.
This is the position which allows deeper sleep and less response during danger, so your rabbit is definitely showing you how much it trusts you.
Do Lionhead Rabbits Need Light at Night?
Lionhead rabbits cannot see in the pitch dark, so some owners like leaving them a dim light on during nighttime. However, there is no real need for that. Indeed, rabbits manage perfectly fine in the wild with no artificial light and they really do not need one when being indoor pets.
Also, having a light on when it is actually dark outside can sometimes make it unclear for them when it is time to sleep or to eat.
It is highly suggestable to keep your lionhead rabbit in a room with a window but avoid placing the enclosure right below it.
That way, your pet can always see what time of day it is. Also, when the weather is nice, open your window whenever you can. Your lionhead will surely enjoy getting some healthy dose of sunshine.
Is it Normal for Lionhead Rabbits to Sleep All Day?
Generally speaking, it is. Lionhead rabbits like enjoying brief but often naps during the day. If your pet is eating normally and is still active during some hours for playtime or exercise, it is perfectly fine to let it sleep.
On the other side, if you notice that your rabbit is just sleeping and avoiding any other kind of activity (including eating), it may be time to visit a vet.
If you think your rabbit sleeps too much, check its nose. Is it wiggling as usual? Your rabbit may be completely awake and aware.
Another good way to tell if your rabbit is sleeping is to monitor the ears- if they are slowly moving as you speak, your pet is not sleeping.
Do Lionhead Rabbits Sleep with Their Eyes Open?
Lionhead rabbits can sleep with their eyes open, especially if they want to stay attentive and ready. The third eyelid membrane which covers their eyes allows good moisture and acts as a dirt protection.
A rabbit which sleeps with its eyes half or wide open can still get quick signals from the light receptors. That way, if a predator (or an unwanted human) approaches, they are immediately aware about it and can start running right away.
Can You Sleep with Your Lionhead Rabbit?
Many owners like sleeping with their cats or dogs as they like to cuddle but it also helps with the bonding. And there is nothing wrong with letting your cute lionhead bunny get into bed with you.
However, be prepared for often wake-ups, nips on your toes, occasional jumps, and whatever else your rabbit will start doing once it gets bored.
Wrapping Up
Rabbits are special creatures. They are neither diurnal nor nocturnal, but they like to be most active somewhere in between. That is why planning their sleeping hours in advance is a mission impossible.
Some bunnies like to sleep several hours during nights, with occasional daytime naps. Others will prefer exactly the contrary.
Lionhead rabbits do have some sleeping habits which are extremely odd to us humans, but there is nothing owners can really do about it. Whenever your pet decides to sleep, we are sure you will enjoy watching that cuteness overload.
