How to set up space to continue bonding in a new place?

[Vaszya]

Hi all,

Backstory: I have two rescued females that I’ve been trying to bond with ‘some’ success. One was an established ‘free roam’ bunny that is now lives in a pen-enclosure for most of the day (The alpha female of the two). The other is a younger bunny who is timid but have given the common area to encourage exploring and not just hiding (The beta). Both have been neutered.

When allowed to be together; The alpha would approach in a non-aggressive curious manner causing the beta to immediately run away. Both will settle down a few feet away from each other but grooming only happens when they have a barrier between them. The alpha now only chases the beta on seemingly random times. This is a huge change from before and fighting almost never happens now.

I live in a small-ish apartment so a truly neutral space is non-existant… but am moving into a much larger place.

Question: given the above, what is the best way to set up their new space? Should I put both in a separate pen, next to each other and only allow both to enjoy a common area at the same time -Or- continue with what I have been previously doing?

Thoughts & other ideas?

Thanks!

[DanaNM]

In the new place, I would set them up side-by-side in the room where they will be let out to exercise, and reserve another area (or multiple areas) of the house for bonding. The exercise space won’t be neutral because it will be close to their home pens. Do not let them out to exercise at the same time in the area near their pens, but alternate who is out in that space. They should only be interacting in a very neutral space while being supervised.

The other alternative (if you have the time and the stamina!) is to try marathon bonding them in the new place from the start. I’ve this before when moving. You basically travel to the new home with the buns together in a carrier (have someone else drive so you can monitor for fighting), and them move them into a large pen together. You want to keep the pen very basic and no litter boxes at first, just pee pads on the floor and a pile of hay. Supervise 24/7 until they are showing lots of positive behaviors (grooming, cuddling, comfort with each other) and no aggression (no nipping, chasing, fighting) for 48 hours. I usually add a litter box after the first overnight if it goes well, and usually I have a good sense after the first overnight as to whether it’s going to work out. Have another pen set up to separate them if needed (like if they keep trying to fight and you are falling asleep).

. . . 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.  

[triangulumlock]

Given your move to a larger place, here’s a thought: start by setting up separate pens next to each other so they can see and smell each other without direct contact. Continue with the supervised common area time to encourage positive interactions. This way, they can get used to the new space and each other at their own pace. Gradually, you can try more direct bonding sessions in the common area.

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