By: Amy Ramnaraine
Rabbits are social animals! Most rabbits crave the companionship of another rabbit. Human companionship cannot fully replicate the close bond shared between rabbits. Adopting a friend for your rabbit is giving them a gift of joy. It also saves two additional lives: the one you bring into your family and the new space you’ve made available at the shelter for another rabbit to be rescued.
Rabbit pairs groom each other, sleep, eat, and play together. They support and protect each other. They keep each other company when we are busy or away — constant companions against loneliness and boredom. Bonded rabbits form extremely close attachments and are a constant source of happy, sweet, and loving interactions.
Tips for Successful Bonding:
- Introductions should be gradual and supervised by someone experienced with bonding bunnies.
- Your rabbit should choose their companion. Female-to-male bonds are generally easiest.
- Adopting an already bonded pair bypasses the bonding process.
Considerations With Two Rabbits:
- Both rabbits must be vaccinated against RHDV2.
- Spaying/neutering is essential. Introductions can begin 30 days post-surgery.
- Careful bonding is required to prevent harm due to territorial behavior.
- Costs will increase (food, hay, litter, veterinary care).
- Pairs are less destructive due to reduced boredom.
- Rabbits grieve the loss of a companion and often need a new friend after mourning.
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