Should I get a second rabbit?

[Chantelle1708]

Hi all, I have a 5 month old neutered buck. He’s completely free range house bun and is trained exceptionally well. In the house it is just me and him. He’s a happy bun and literally rules my house! However, now he has been neutered, I am wondering whether I should now get another one for company for him but I am worried that he will change the way he is and may not take to it. 

Can a single house rabbit be entirely happy? Or is it always better to have them in pairs?

[SaRa]

Hi Chantelle1708.

From my research, I know that bonded rabbits tend to live longer and are generally happier. However, the tricky part is getting two rabbits to bond.
The bonding process can be very stressful and sometimes it is not successful. I am currently in the process of bonding my two rabbits and although I have been lucky and there is no aggression, the process has proven to be VERY long (7 months) and they are not yet a bonded pair.

You have to ask your self: is my bunny happy alone? Only you can truly answer that question. If he spends long periods of time alone I can see why you might want to get him a companion…If you want to do so, I would DEFINITELY read the bonding instructions you can find on this website.

You will surely experience some changes, especially when it comes to territory. Since your bunny is free range and feels like he owns the entire house, it might be hard for you to establish a neutral zone for bonding.
In my personal experience, I have not seen changes in temperament from either one of my rabbits during the bonding process. They remain just as affectionate towards me as they were before. However, I have noticed that their litter habits have gotten worse, this is due to territorial insecurity and will most likely not be resolved until they are bonded.

Best of luck!

[Author]

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