New Owner seeking advice

[Ree]

Hi, I recently adopted a neutered male lop eared rabbit (four weeks ago) He is lovely and is used to me and we are getting along great, but reluctant to come out of his cage. He is also very nervy and jumps at the slightest noise.  I am thinking about introducing another rabbit (in a controlled environment through the RSPCA)  as I think some company might help him.  He has never lived with another rabbit.  I have spoken to the RSPCA and they have given me all the information and advice with regards to introducing another rabbit and I realise this could go either way as he might just completely reject the idea of a new friend…… But I just want to get the opinion of experienced owners.  I am new to this so I realise this could be a completely ludicrous idea but please be gentle with me I just want some advice that would be greatly appreciated

Thanks

Ree (& Pickles)

[Sarita]

Welcome, I don’t think it’s ludicrous but I don’t think it’s necessary to have 2 rabbits either. I think it is about what you want as far as getting another rabbit.

I think even though it’s been 4 weeks, he’s still getting used to a routine and it just may take a bit longer to feel comfortable with coming out of his cage – right now that is his safe place. It sounds like you have a great relationship with him now.

I guess my opinion is to wait especially if you are new to rabbits. Bonding can be very stressful for you and for Pickles.

[manic_muncher]

When I first got Bumpy, he was the same way. Maybe not so much jumpy, but very alert and he refused to come out of his cage. I have wood floors and it was suggested to me that maybe he didn’t like the surface to step out on. Placed a rug down and within minutes he was out exploring. It then took him months before he would not run out of reach every time I moved.

I would agree with Sarita regarding a second bun.

[Ree]

Fab advice thanks guys! I thought it was me, the idea of getting him some company seemed the solution but it’s great to get some experienced opinions I think I will wait to get him a companion until we are better friends

[LBJ10]

Manic is right. I would make getting in and out of his cage more inviting. So if you have slippery floors, then a rug would be a good idea. It has only been a month, so it really hasn’t been that long in bunny time. I would wait and see how things develop. If it turns out that he is just a really shy bunny by nature, then you can reevaluate getting him a friend. In some cases, a friend can certainly help an insecure bunny feel more comfortable. I know several BB members have had their bunny benefit from having a friend. But I wouldn’t call it something that is necessary and you certainly have to think about the stress of bonding. Some bunnies take to each other right away, some bunnies do not.

[LongEaredLions]

Another thing would be that you want to know his personality really well before attempting to bond him with another rabbit, so you will be most likely to succeed. I would see if you can form a stronger bond with him, then add another bunny if you want one.
Congratulations on your new bunny and welcome to BB!

[Author]

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