New Bun is So Skittish!

[TeddyBun]

We recently adopted a second bun as a companion to our first. Bonding went very well and in just over 3 weeks they had officially moved in together in a shared habitat (the same a pen at night but are free roam during the day). Our new bun seems absolutely smitten with her husbun but is so super skittish around all her humans still. It’s only been 4 weeks since we’ve brought her home, but I’m worried about not being able to touch her at all. She hasn’t had a good brushing since we’ve had her and I’m concerned what I’ll do once she needs her nails trimmed or even a vet visit.

A little backstory: She was born into a rescue home (her mom was rescued in a parking lot and gave birth shortly thereafter) and she was also quite timid in her foster home once separated from her mom/siblings. We have no small children at our home or any other pets- just the 2 bunnies so there should be no other external scarries for her.

While I’m glad the bonding was so smooth and she loves her new mate, I’m wondering how I can best help her get acclimated to the rest of us. She will approach me if I have food or snacks but runs and hides if I move even a single muscle in her direction.

Any tips for helping ease this skittish little bun into life at her new home?

[pinkiemarie]

Time and patience, I’m afraid and she may always be more skittish than your other bun. It might help if you can sit on the floor by the rabbits and just ignore them. That usually works for me too get their attention and they start climbing all over me. It’s one of the main ways I bonded with them too-I just say quietly and let them investigate and hang out with me at their own pace.

 

 

[DanaNM]

I agree with @pinkiemarie, time and patience unfortunately! Sometimes shy bunnies can learn from their bond-mate to be a bit more outgoing.

Floortime and hand-feeding are good strategies, along with not trying to pet just yet. But in the meantime, don’t be afraid to pop her on the table on a towel for grooming and nail trims. I think with shy bunnies it’s best to just get it over with and do a deep grooming once a week (or twice if they are molting), rather than constantly pestering them with the brush.

If you are having trouble catching her, you can try picking her up in the litter box or training her to go into a carrier with food. Or use an x-pen to corral her into a smaller space.

. . . 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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