Advice needed - growling/lunging!!

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This topic has 2sd replies, 3 voices, and was last updated 2 years, 6 months ago by DanaNM.

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- 05/03/2022 at 2:44 PM
  Cazza108
  Participant
  7 posts
  Hi,
  
  I have a 2 year old neutered female bun called Cooper. Her partner passed away last week and so I am currently fostering a 3 year old neutered male.
  
  They have been side by side for about a week and I have started some face to face bonding in the bathroom.
  
  It does seem to be making some progress. Initially Cooper growled and lunged at him immediately however they have started to groom each other. The problem is she growls and lunges at him at completely unpredictable moments. I always separate them as soon as she growls with my hand/a dustpan.
  
  Is this something I need to just wait out or does the growling/lunging mean that they are not a good match?
  
  thanks in advance for any advice!
- 05/04/2022 at 11:59 AM
  Oliver The Bunny!
  Participant
  52 posts
  I have never bonded bunnies before but I’m guessing they just need to get to know each other better. If they are grooming each other that’s a good sign! Make sure the meetings are in neutral territory when they are having playdates and that they have plenty of places to get away from each other (hidey houses) if they don’t feel comfortable. Taking it slower might help? Let them go to each other, don’t force anything on them. Good luck!
- 05/09/2022 at 8:46 AM
  DanaNM
  Moderator
  9054 posts
  I agree that it is still early days!
  
  Additional “pre-bonding” time could help. So in addition to side-by-side living, start swapping who is on what side every day or two, and continue that for a couple weeks.
  
  Growling and lunging are actually OK, as long as they don’t actually fight. it’s all part of them communicating and setting their boundaries with each other. She may growl if he moves too close to her too quickly, so that’s her telling him to slow it down.
  
  I would keep going as you have been, and try to always end the session on a positive note. I like to do a lot of petting as well during early bonding sessions, so when they approach each other don’t be afraid to pet them.
  
  . . . 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.
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