What to Do if You Find an Adult Rabbit

Adult rabbits are commonly seen in neighborhoods, yards, and parks. In most cases, they are healthy and do NOT need help. The best way to help is usually to leave them alone. Adult rabbits rely on their ability to stay still or flee quickly to avoid predators—both are normal behaviors.

When Adult Rabbits Need Help

Adult rabbits rarely need human intervention, but there are certain situations where they do require immediate help from a wildlife rehabilitator.

A rabbit likely needs assistance if it is:

  • Bleeding or visibly injured

  • Dragging a leg or unable to move normally

  • Lying on its side or not responding

  • Caught or injured by a cat or dog

  • Covered in flies or has open wounds

  • Acting disoriented (circling, head tilt, falling over)

These situations can quickly become life-threatening without proper care.

What NOT to Do if You Find an Adult Rabbit

  • Do not assume it needs help just because it is still

    • Rabbits often freeze to avoid predators

  • Do not feed or give water

    • Human food (even lettuce or carrots) can be harmful

  • Do not handle or pick it up unless clearly injured

    • Handling can cause shock or worsen injuries

  • Do not allow pets near the rabbit

    • Dogs and cats are a major threat

    • Even brief contact can be fatal

  • Do not attempt to treat or keep the rabbit

    • Wildlife requires specialized care

    • It is illegal to keep wild animals without proper permits

What to Do Right Away

If you find and adult rabbit and are concerned:

  • Observe from a distance

    • Look for signs of injury

      • Is it bleeding or visibly hurt?

      • Is it unable to move or trying to drag itself?

      • Is it unresponsive or lying on its side?

  • If the rabbit seems healthy

    • Leave it alone

    • Give it space to move away

    • Do not attempt to catch or feed it

  • If the rabbit is injured

    • Gently place it in a secure box or carrier

    • Keep it in a quiet, dark, warm place

    • Do NOT feed or give water

    • Do NOT pet or handle

    • Contact a wildlife rehabilitator immediately

Rabbits are extremely sensitive to stress. Handling should only be done if the rabbit is clearly injured or in immediate danger.

Close-up side profile of an adult Eastern cottontail rabbit with brown fur, a large upright ear, and a dark eye, standing in green grass.
Adult Eastern cottontail rabbit sitting low in green grass, with brown fur, a small rounded body, and one upright ear visible against a soft green background.
Close-up of an adult Eastern cottontail rabbit with mottled brown fur, upright ears, and dark eyes, sitting on the ground among green plants and leaf litter.