Flopped or Terrified? The Unseen Truth About Tonic Immobility in Rabbits

It’s an image many have seen online or even in pet stores: a rabbit lying perfectly still on its back, legs in the air, seemingly in a state of blissful Zen. This is often called 'trancing' or 'hypnotizing,' and for decades it has been misinterpreted as a sign of ultimate trust and relaxation. But science and animal welfare experts are painting a much darker picture. That peaceful-looking rabbit isn't calm; it's terrified. It's experiencing a physiological state known as tonic immobility, a last-ditch survival instinct driven by intense fear.

What is Tonic Immobility?

Tonic immobility (TI) is an involuntary, temporary state of paralysis that many prey animals exhibit when they believe death is imminent. When caught by a predator with no chance of escape, a rabbit's brain can trigger this catatonic state. The animal goes limp, its heart rate and breathing can change dramatically, and it appears lifeless. The evolutionary theory is that this 'playing dead' might cause a predator to loosen its grip, providing a fleeting chance for the rabbit to escape and flee. It is not a conscious choice or a state of relaxation; it is a desperate, biological Hail Mary.

The Dangerous Myth of the 'Happy Trance'

For years, many well-meaning owners and even some professionals have promoted trancing as a way to bond with a rabbit or to perform husbandry tasks like nail clipping or grooming. The rabbit’s stillness was mistaken for compliance and contentment. This misunderstanding has led to countless rabbits being put through an experience they find profoundly stressful. The belief is so pervasive that many owners only learn the truth after years of the practice, expressing deep regret for unintentionally causing their beloved pets fear. The reality is that forcing a prey animal onto its back, a vulnerable position it would never choose, is a terrifying experience that severely damages the trust you've built.

The Science of Fear: A Look Inside

While a 'tranced' rabbit may look peaceful on the outside, its body is telling a very different story. Scientific studies have measured the physiological responses of rabbits during tonic immobility and confirmed it is a highly stressful event. Researchers have recorded significant increases in heart rate, respiratory rate, and blood levels of corticosterone—the primary stress hormone. This internal storm of stress chemicals is the complete opposite of relaxation. The Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund (RWAF) puts it clearly:

It is not a relaxed state, it is a response to a terrifying situation when the rabbit feels that it is about to be killed by a predator. The rabbit is shutting down and is rigid with fear. In studies where this has been measured, their heart rate and stress hormone levels are very high.

Essentially, while the body is frozen, the mind is in a state of high alert and panic. There is also a risk of physical injury, as a rabbit can suddenly snap out of the trance and violently struggle, potentially injuring its delicate spine.

Safer Alternatives for Handling and Care

Understanding the truth about tonic immobility means we must abandon it as a handling technique. Fortunately, there are many fear-free ways to care for a rabbit. For tasks like nail trimming or health checks, it's best to keep the rabbit in a secure and natural position. This can be achieved by holding them firmly but gently against your body, often wrapped in a towel (a 'bunny burrito') to help them feel secure, while keeping their feet on a surface. Working with a partner and using positive reinforcement, like offering a favorite treat, can also build a positive association with handling. For very anxious rabbits, it is always best to consult a rabbit-savvy veterinarian for guidance on safe and low-stress handling methods.

By dispelling the myth of the 'happy trance,' we can ensure our rabbits feel safe and loved, not silently terrified. True bonding comes from respect and understanding, not from forcing a state of fear.

Sources

• Rabbit Welfare Association & Fund: Trancing
• Viola, E., Von Borell, E. F., & Mattiello, S. (2009). Physiological and behavioural responses of the rabbit to tonic immobility.