" If i picked a particular rabbit figurine that was protected by a trademark, how would I know?"
A couple of ways. First, see ifthe figurine itself is marked -- it may be if a trademark exists. Second, check with the USPTO (you can search their database) to see if a U.S. registered trademark exists for the figurine. Third, ask the company that manufactures the figurine. Fourth, pay a lawyer to do a search for you. Fifth, just do it, and wait and see if you get sued.
1 is the best, of course. 2 is good, but it will only tell you if there is a registered trademark, and not if they have any state or common-law trademark rights. 3 is good, if you can find the manufacturer, although they are under no obligation to tell you. 4 is the best, but most expensive option. 5 is worth a shot if the figurine is just some random figurine.
It's up to you how you want to handle things. Again, if the figuring isjust some random figurine and not a well-known object or part of a line of licensed merchandise, then you are probably okay. 4 is always the best bet, but may be prohibitively expensive.