ADVICE to prevent rabbit loneliness

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BINKYBUNNY FORUMS

This topic has 5sd replies, 5 voices, and was last updated 4 years, 9 months ago by EllenFlo.

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- 05/11/2021 at 6:59 AM
  Mira
  Participant
  2 posts
  Hello all!
  
  I have had my pet bunny for almost 2 years now and I got her when she was only a couple months old. She is a singular rabbit and hasn’t ever displayed the desire to have another rabbit friend since she is free roam and spends most of her time with me, I’ve become her bonded partner. This summer I am going to be working full time from about 8-4:30 pm, which is the longest amount of time I will be away from her (other than when I go on vacation but she is still continuously checked in on and has my family dog as company). I am worried about her getting lonely and was hoping for some advice on what I can do to ensure her time without me during the day doesn’t result in loneliness. I have considered getting another rabbit for some time however, I once introduced her to my relative’s rabbits (safely of course, separate fences but met at a gate) and she was somewhat aggressive and did not have any desire to play or get to know them which makes me think she just really enjoys being my cute little Baby Bunny (her name which I know is quite literal). Anyway, I was just curious if anyone else has had this issue and has thought of any alternatives to make it more comfortable for their rabbits. Thank you so much, have a great rest of your day!
- 05/11/2021 at 8:06 AM
  pinkiemarie
  Participant
  425 posts
  Is your rabbit spayed? Aggression is normal when first introduced to another rabbit, especially if they aren’t spayed. Another rabbit is honestly the best thing to prevent loneliness and although she seems happy with you, she’s probably still missing out on important bunny socializing that you can’t provide as a human. Bonding rabbits can be hard work but her reaction to the other rabbits really doesn’t necessarily indicate that she didn’t like or care about other bunnies!
- 05/11/2021 at 10:43 AM
  Mira
  Participant
  2 posts
  Hi. Thank you for response! Yes she is spayed and thank you so much for your input! I will definitely look into possibly getting another rabbit.
- 05/11/2021 at 1:17 PM
  Wick & Fable
  Moderator
  5834 posts
  It is not uncommon for two rabbits to be initially aggressive upon meeting, especially if it was within one of their territory, though it happens in neutral too– so don’t take a single interaction to define your rabbits response to all rabbits! That is why most rescues will do “speed-dating”, which is exposing your rabbit to others, one by one, and see what that initial reaction is. As someone who has had my single bun for 4 years (since he was 8wo), I was definitely somewhat attached to the idea that “He will only be happy with me, because our bond is impeccable”, which I do believe, but at the same time, I’m not a rabbit. He now has another rabbit companion that, although she’s not his #1 favorite, we sort of formed a “trio”, and personally, I’m glad he has someone to cuddle with when I’m not there due to work.
  
  That being said, there are buns who are single all their lives, have a close connection with their owner, and do end up successfully thriving more with another rabbit. While it may be bittersweet, ultimately having a companion who they can better communicate with can be really fulfilling for a rabbit.
  
  The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.
- 05/11/2021 at 6:25 PM
  LBJ10
  Moderator
  17225 posts
  I do enjoy seeing the bond between two rabbits. There is just something so sweet about it. 🙂 I agree, you can’t base how she would do with another rabbit on a single experience. It isn’t unusual for two rabbits to show aggression when meeting for the first time. If you’re serious about finding her companion, it may be better to let her pick out a friend (if the shelter allows it).
- 05/12/2021 at 10:43 AM
  EllenFlo
  Participant
  4 posts
  Hello 😊 I have a singular rabbit and also think about getting another but I am unsure at the moment! I also work full time so Flo has full run of the kitchen with lots of toys, hay, water, blankets and I have a pet cam! She still rushes and zoomies about when i’m not there otherwise will lie down with her legs out and chill out 😊 she’s happy to see me when I get home but even then she still likes to chill out!
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