1st attempt did not go well

[Rex's Mama]

Hi I am dealing with some bunny bonding stress.  We have had Rex who is almost 1 for 9 months or so and he was neutered (at 5 months) and we adopted a really mellow boy bunny (Brownie) from the shelter who is about a year as well and is also neutered.  I had my new guy checked out at the vet and after getting a clean bill of health tried to see how they would do if they met.  I set up a I small space in neutral territory and put them both in it.  After about 5 seconds Brownie lunged at Rex, got him in his mouth.  I grabbed Brownie and it was terrifying as it actually took some time for him to let go of Rex.  It was probably only a few seconds, but it seemed like a really long time.  Fur was flying everywhere.  I separated them and then got them back in their houses.  I then thought it would be a good idea to rig something so that they could get a little closer to each other and still be able to move around.  That seemed good until Rex found a space and they were at it again.  I stopped again and separated for good.  I am a little worried that they might not make it together.  I did put Rex’s stuffed baby bunny with his fur on it in Brownies cage.  He bit it a few times and then started grooming it.  So that is something I guess.  I have just started switching their blankets to see if that helps.  Any advice?  I don’t want to torture them, but I would love for them to get along.

[Sarita]

Have you tried any sessions since this post? I think switching their litter boxes and water bowls or bottles might be a good idea to try so they get used to each other scent.

[Author]

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