Did he do a culture to determine what strain of pastuerella it was?

Pastuerella is extremely contagious, so I wouldn’t be surprised if Fudge has already contracted the bacteria from Taffety. It is one of those things however that can remain dormant until the immune system is compromised, or the rabbit stressed etc which is when it causes symptoms. It doesn’t always become chronic if treated early, however it is just one of those things that can recur throughout the life of the rabbit. I’d be worried that Fudge being stressed could lead to him also developing symptoms, however on the chance he hasn’t caught it yet, and you have caught it early, I’d say wait so tha the doesn’t catch it. It’s a tough decision but if you do feel that it’s causing too much stress for Fudge, you can put him back with Taffety, but you may have to start a course of treatment for him as well. I’m honestly not sure if it’s rubbish advice or not.

Honestly, I don’t think separating them was necessary. If they are really bonded, then the separation might be too stressful. That can’t be good for either one. It is likely both rabbits have whatever bacteria (may not be Pasteurella) and, as you said, Taffety’s immune system was compromised and the bacteria took the opportunity. I wouldn’t worry too much about Fudge. I mean, Wooly has on and off bacteria flareups and Leopold has never displayed symptoms once. I’m sure they both have the bacteria in their sinuses. But with Wooly’s tooth root issues, sometimes the bacteria finds an opportunity to grow and we have to give him antibiotics.

Agreed with LBJ10. It’s likely that they both carry the bacteria if they’ve been living together, grooming each other, eating together, etc. A lot of experts say that most bunnies actually have Pasteurella in their systems but it doesn’t cause problems.

Separation can cause stress which could further weaken your buns’ immune system.