Feel stuck

[HenNSyl]

I have my original bunny, Henry, boy neutered. Added a girl, Sylvie, girl, spayed about 6 weeks ago. They have side by side pens and get dates probably every other day. When they had speed dating at the shelter it went fantastic, grooming, flopping and relaxing with each other. Sylvie had a rough past as a rescued meat rabbit. She is quick to box, growl and bite, but has been steadily improving. Pretty much every single date she nips Henry. Henry is so tolerant and never nips back, but I can feel his patience is running thin. I suspect Sylvie nips because she is anxious. Any sudden movements cause her to startle. She is the dominant bunny and Henry has conceded to this, but there is never any snuggling or grooming, because she is always ready to nip, and he is always ready to flinch. I have changed locations, and done car rides with them. It has been about 6 weeks. I am not looking for a miracle because I know bonding takes time, but how can I help turn this relationship into a more positive, productive one???

[LuvMyLops]

Still learning myself but you might try a little dab of peanut butter on each others head, this may instigate some grooming. I would do this with short 10 minute sessions, if that works try that 4 times a day at first then increase the time to 20 mins 4 times a day etc. Good Luck.

[kurottabun]

Did you immediately introduce Sylvie to Henry right after she was spayed? You mentioned that the bonding has been about 6 weeks and you also mentioned that Sylvie was spayed 6 weeks ago.

Hormones take some time to settle after a spay/neuter surgery, and especially so for female buns. She may still be hormonal right now and hence is displaying aggressive behaviour.

[Author]

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