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Q. "My new rabbit licks me constantly. At first I thought it might be a bit of mutual grooming, but then I discovered that he likes to lick the carpet, cushions and sofa just as much... He's done this since the first week I got him and although it was cute at first I'm getting a bit sick of being covered in rabbit spit all the time!! If its a sign that he likes me (and the cushions!) maybe I can put up with it! Anyone have any ideas?

A. I have to admit this is a behavior I just don't understand. We also have a rabbit who loves to lick fabric cushions and the sofa, although he never licks people. I am sure that when your rabbit licks you it is a very strong sign of affection, regardless of any other licking behavior. Rabbits consider licking each other to be a very serious matter, as grooming is the most critical marker of hierarchy and friendship. A suggestion from David P. that I find interesting is that rabbits might lick objects as a substitute for licking companions. It comes to mind that your rabbit might be licking things because he feels insecure, as willingness to groom others commonly indicates a rabbit accepts their dominance. Hmmm. Perhaps our pillow-linking rabbit who doesn't lick people is doing it to signal, "I'd be licking you just like this if you didn't taste so yucky."