Fighting caused by smell

[Moo <3]

Hi all, I’m hoping someone has some experience on this  My two males, both neutered and adopted, have been living together for over a year. In this year, there are random spurts in their relationship that results in fur-pulling, and I have made the conclusion that it’s caused by another rabbits’ scent. I volunteer at a rabbit shelter weekly, so I have to come home, dispose of my clothes, and shower immediately. After they fight, I put them in a confined area together, for a couple of days until they seem comfortable and fine enough to be let into the room. During these days, they groom, lay by one another, and seem completely in love, yet they burst into another disagreement weeks, even months, later. How do I proceed? Is there anything to do? Will a third, female, bunny help? It seems to be Moo, one of the males, who always starts the fights. Any help is much appreciated, Thank you!!

[Wick & Fable]

I have heard of numerous instances where bonds are volatile, rather than always being pleasant. I think it’s important to try and re-establish a bond with them, reinforcing those positive behaviors.

Confining them together after a fight may not be the best idea. Maybe following a fight, you can do a short bond session, separate them for brief period, then reintroduce the stable bond?

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.

[Moo <3]

I had thought of that, but I heard cases where separating them can make things worse. They are in a space small enough where they cannot get into a fight (it’s a reinforced condo).

They haven’t had an incident in about a month or so, though they are only out in the room while I can be home watching. There seems to be no tension between them… I will try the separating/bonding method the next time and see if it helps at all. I do think they enjoy being together, as they are usually always by each other.

Thank you so much for the help Wick!

[Author]

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