Bonding

[rebecca08]

I’m sure this is post #4928572 on bonding but I just need some reassurance. I have a 1 year old neutered Velveteen Lop, named Hoppy, who is very people friendly, dog friendly, and just an all-around awesome bunny. He’s truly the best!

I’ve been a bit busy and have felt guilty about not giving him the time he is used to so I thought he’d like a friend to be with during the times I can’t be with him. I read quite a bit about bonding and found a couple of English Lop mixes at the humane society. They were being housed at a Petco so I went there this morning and my son chose a 9 lb black & white girl, Speedy, to try first. 

We took them to an area that they use for puppy training, so it was secure, and let them out. We were there for 20+ minutes and Speedy crawled into Hoppy’s carrier and just laid next to him. Hoppy was happy to lay next to her and eat his hay (his favorite hobby is eating) and he even groomed himself while sitting next to her. So, we decided it’s a match and adopted Speedy. 

I’ve had them in the xpen together and at times they lay next to each other and times where they chase, try to bite, and thump at each other (mainly Speedy thumping). Even though I have read about the bonding process, it’s different when I’m dealing with it in the moment! I’m not sure how far to allow them to chase/fight with each other before interrupting. Right now, I’m stopping it as soon as it starts and they settle down. 

I think I just need some reassurance that I’m on the right track. 

[tophdade]

In general I would say the idea is to interrupt all aggressive behavior. That being said, all animals coming together need to establish a hierarchy. One of them will have to be top bun eventually. Just make sure they’re figuring that out in a neutral territory with positive reinforcement from you. I’m sure someone with bonding experience can give you more intricate advice. Just don’t be disheartened!! Good luck!!

[LittlePuffyTail]

Since she’s a shelter bunny, I’m assuming Speedy is spayed? How long since she’s been spayed?

I think you are definitely trying to rush things too much. Speedy should have some time to relax in her new home before you start working on bonding. A new home is very stressful and it’s not fair to add the stress of bonding on top of that. If it were me, I would give her a couple of weeks to just adjust to being in your home, housed in a spot where she can see and smell your other bunny.

Bonding can take many weeks or even months. Trying to rush it can have a counter effect.

[rebecca08]

Thanks for the replies.

And thank you, LittlePuffyTail, for the reminder that I wasn’t being very respectful of her. I’m going to wait 2-3 weeks and then try.

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