Bonding success rate

[caillou]

I have a single bun, and if I were to get another it wouldn’t be for a looong while, just considering space and time and things, but I was wondering what you would say the bonding success rate is? I’m not sure that I’d be able to handle/want to have two buns separately forever. I also worry that he would get jealous if I got another bunny? He’s so spoiled and attention seeking that this is a genuine fear I have! 

I know that there are other happy single buns out there, so I guess I’m wondering what the necessity/is it really worth taking the risk over? Alfie gets lots of attention and cuddles, and he is neutered so that wouldn’t be an issue. I really wouldn’t get another bun probably for at least another 6 months so at this point it really is more of a hypothetical question: do ALL buns need a friend??

[DanaNM]

Honestly, I think that almost all buns can be bonded with time and patience. If the bond is very difficult, it may not be worth the effort and stress, and it is often easier to try with a different bunny.

I also have really truly seen my bunnies blossom with a friend, and I thought they were happy before! Their affection towards me has never gone down, but I feel so happy knowing they have a bunny friend to do bunny things with and to cuddle at night and while I’m at work. And you get to cuddle and love two bunnies at once!

I recently heard it put this way: If you were abducted by aliens, and the aliens were very kind, do you think you might want human companionship? For most people, the answer is yes, but a few, no.

Since he is a happy single bun, there is no need to rush into it, so you have time to think about it.

Do you have a shelter near you that will let to take him on dates? You can at least get a sense as to what his first reaction is to other bunnies.

Unless they immediately are aggressive towards each other, your chances of success are good. You can try him with both males and females, to see if he has a preference. My girl does NOT like other females, but personality matters a lot.

. . . 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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