yeah, and actually it's easier with a rabbit hide.
  The hide of any mammal is made of small fibers. All these fibers are actually facing the same way, namely vertically along the long axis of the animal. When the hide is tanned, these fibers become stiff.
  What you have to do is "break" the fibers. For a rabbit, here's what you do. Dampen ( not soak) the hide, then put it over the edge of a table (like your kitchen counter) then, simply work and rub it over the edge. Do it in every direction. If the hide dries, wet it again. What this does is break the fibers and softens the hide. You have to be careful on the edge of course.
  Another option, believe it or not is to use one of those table top rock tumblers. Put the hide in with pumice, and let it go. Check onit every few minutes until the desired softness is achieved.