Before the bonding?

[Ashlen]

I have only had my new bunny a couple days. I have let the two see each other but do not plan on bonding them till the new one is settled in and gets fixed. Peanut butter (my first rabbit) does seem stressed about the new edition. He is pooping on my bed and on the floor which he never does. And he seems more alert than normal. I’m asuming it’s because of him being able to smell and hear his new neighbor. Any ways. I was wanting to know if anyone had advice on how to ease peanut butters stress about the situation? I’m trying really hard to make sure I feed him first, play w him first, greet him first. What else can I do? I know it very well may just take a few days or weeks to get use to the other bun in the house but I will do anything to make it easier on my little peanut butter.

[theshrew24]

I had the same problem with Albus when I brought Wally home, especially with the pooping/peeing on my bed issue. Since then, I have completely banned my bed from bunnies (Wally is not allowed on ever) just to save myself from having to do laundry 3 times a day and to keep things fair. But, as to what to do to make the transition easier, I have done several things.

I actually allow Wally (second bun) playtime first, so that Albus can stay out without a strict time limit. I make sure to lie down on the floor so he can hop on my back and lick my face. I also talk to him a bit more sweetly and give him kisses on his nose (he loves kisses). I also realized that taking him out of the neutral space or shared space to a different room where just the two of us will be helps him relax and not feel like he is being replaced, especially since he has a lot of restrictions that he long since grew out of (no more getting on the couch or bathroom rug or my bed).

I guess the biggest thing is that, when Wally is out, it is a lot of bonding with me and exploring his surroundings. Wally is very curious so there is a lot of exploration. With Albus, though, it is an hour of wanting to be pet and kissed. I now do homework or watch the TV on the floor so he can cuddle with me. Listen for that teeth-grinding purr they do; I always make sure that the first session of pets always leads to Albus “purring” and being content.

[LongEaredLions]

Hi theshrew24-
We ask that members do not pull up old topics, older than a month or so. Not a big deal, and you have good advice, it just keeps confusion to a minimum. I am going to lock this topic.
Welcome to the forums!

[Author]

Messages