Bonding An Older Rabbit

[mjackman]

Ok this might be kind of long, but I need to give all the information I can so I can get the best opinions from all you, I’m getting mixed answers from others.

We had 2 rabbits who were a bonded pair for the last 4 years. Last night our oldest one passed away leaving Bronx (who is 5) alone. I am very concerned that Bronx will get depressed since he has had a friend for 4 out of his 5 years. Unfortunately Bronx is now a special needs rabbit whose hind legs do not function as they should and will most likely be in a wheelchair soon. Because of his age, and “disability” I was thinking another older or special needs bunny may be a good companion for him. I contacted many breeders in our area to ask if they had any gentle bunnies that were surrendered to them who needed a loving home who were older and/or special needs. I had one breeder suggest a slightly larger rabbit she has (Bronx weighs 4 pounds, this girl weighs 8) who is blind. Initially I thought this would be a great idea. Both would be at a disadvantage (I am very nervous about another rabbit picking on Bronx and him getting hurt since he can’t get away as fast). This particular girl also lost her partner, so I thought once bonded they would be able to keep each other company during their last few years.

However, I then had another breeder tell me a younger bunny would be better because they would not really know to be territorial at a young age. I then had another breeder tell me that I should not get another rabbit since Bronx is so old.

The last thing I want to do is make the wrong choice. Please do not tell me that I will know best since he is my bunny, I have only ever had these two rabbits and I feel that my lack of experience will cause me to make the wrong decision,

PLEASE let me know what you think. Thank you so much!!!

[Sarita]

Have you tried any rescues in your area. I think your rabbit would benefit greatly from having a friend.

Definitely consider contacting rescues though as they will have a rabbit who is altered and many times they have older rabbits that have a more difficult time finding a home.

[mjackman]

I have contacted rescues, I thought besides the fact that we would be providing a great
loving home to a surrendered rabbit, the fact ours could “speed date” so he could pick his own companion.

Thanks so much for your input, getting mixed advice just adds extra stress to the situation.

[Author]

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