How/when do I know that my bunny bonding is has been successful?

[Irina]

I am in the process of cementing the bond between Tofu and Butterscotch. I started bonding them 6 days ago, and with the help and support of Move Diagonally (thank you!) they were moved to their permanent pen 20 hours ago. So, how do I know if the bond is a good one, or a success? Should I expect the bunnies to be cuddling all the time, or is not fighting a good enough sign? If thre are any disagreements over the next few days- does that mean it is failing? If a new bond were to break, is it most likely in the first few days/weeks? I guess I just want to know what to expect? Will they get closer as time goes on? Will they fight more as time goes on?

Thanks!

[LongEaredLions]

I consider bunnies bonded when there is absolutely no fighting or scuffles for several days, and atleast some sign of affection/not ignoring each other. In time the bond will most likely become stronger. If the bunnies begin to fight, I would take them on a car ride, and then return them to the pen together.
Sorry if that wasn’t much help, I’m not exactly a bonding expert myself, only have done it once.

[Irina]

Thanks LongEaredLions- that does help. I was looking for some kind of benchmark to go by. I have found that there is no one right way, because every bunny a different. My three have completely different personalities. So everybody’s suggestions are helpful to have on your tool box if something isn’t working. So far, Tofu and Butterscotch have been together for over 48 hours. There were a couple of chases the first night- but I think they were more play- not actually aggression. The first day, Butters itch seemed to be hiding in or under her tower bed, and there wasn’t much interaction between the two- although there were sporadic cuddles and grooming. Over the past 12-14 hours, Butterscotch seems to have gotten more comfortable! He us out and about throughout the pen, lots if binkies and mini 500s. He and tofu were eating pellets together, shared a carrot and were in the litterbox together. They also flopped together a few times already this morning… So I am thinking all is good! If it continues this way-by the end if the weekend I could consider them bonded?

[LongEaredLions]

I would think if this behavors continue to show throughout the weekend and there are no problems, I would say they have bonded.

[AnnaW]

Yep I agree with LongEaredLions, my two have now been together 12 days with absolutely no scuffles or fights, and pretty much constant grooming and snuggling, They are inseperable :3 Sounds like it’s going very well to me – well done! x

[Irina]

That is great AnnaW! I think we are doing great – I don’t think they will ever be “constant snugglers” (?) but they do cuddle several times a day- and it seems to be increasing! I think When I I introduce Shadow into the picture, (my girl who is getting spayed next month.,,,)- she may bring more cuddles into the picture- she is a cuddlebug!

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