Talk of rabbit bonding is enough to make even the most experienced bunny enthusiast shiver! Rabbits are social animals and they love a companion, but sometimes they can end up alone. This is when rabbit bonding comes into play. It is the gradual introduction of two rabbits with the goal of them living together in a shared home. Keep reading for some key tips on successful rabbit bonding!
A pair of successfully bonded buns!
What is Rabbit Bonding
Rabbit bonding is the introduction of one rabbit to another. Typically a rabbit would have their litter mates as companions, however there are many reasons they may end up alone. This is very common in the rescue rabbits that we care for.
When introducing one rabbit to another, it is vital to remember that they are territorial animals. For this reason, our most important tip is to involve an experienced rescue. They can help in the finding of a mate, as well as the pairing up process. Plus you have the added benefit of rescuing an animal in need.
Our unique foster-for-bonding scheme is a great option for those in the Manchester area. We can assist in the pairing and bonding process, plus we are always on hand for advice.
Not local to the Manchester area? No problem. Contact us today to discover our ‘all you need to know’ bunny bonding guide.
Our approach
The reason we have so much success in rabbit bonding is our hands off, animals centred approach. Once we have identified a potential mate for your current rabbit, you will take on the role of a fosterer. This gives everyone chance to become acquainted in a non-committal way. We will never force you to adopt a rabbit that is not the right fit for your home. Similarly we would never rehome a bunny somewhere they wont be 100% happy. One successful graduate of our bonding scheme said –
We first fostered Penelope, with the hope of adopting if they got along. There was no pressure from the RSPCA, only support. We adopted her within 4 weeks and it is the best decision that I could have ever made.
Penelope (right) in her forever home with new pal Clyde. She was adopted after successfully graduating our rabbit bonding scheme.
We aim to make the process as low stress as possible. It is our role to facilitate, taking it at a pace that works for each bun. We are also experts in rabbit behaviour and know the warning signs to look out for.
Did you know – it can take anywhere from 4 weeks to several months to successfully bond two rabbits.
Our biggest tip for successful rabbit bonding is to take each step as it comes. Some they may fly through, others may take longer. It is not a one size fits all process whatsoever and it is essential that you remember this. One rabbit parent who learnt slow and steady wins the race was BB and Bunny Moo’s mum.
Here’s what she said –
In December when we brought a very shy Bunny Moo home. At first we were a little worried the process wouldn’t work as they were two very different characters, BB loved zooming around and sitting with our cat, Bunny Moo was shy and lacked confidence. How wrong we were!! We started slow, two separate pens in our front room, gradually moving them closer to each other, gradually sharing scents and supervised contact. All slow and steady steps, taken following the guidance provided by the wonderful Susie! The whole process was efficient and friendly. Susie was at hand to any question we had, and always offered a solution to any issue. After a month or two, they finally spent a decent amount of time together and finally moved in together and they couldn’t be happier!!
