Would you recommend adopting a 5-6 Year Old Dwarf Lionhead?

[Kelly]

Hey guys, I’d like some advice/insight here. One of my colleagues is looking to find someone to adopt one of her bunnies because he doesn’t get along with her other one. This one’s a 5-6 year old dwarf lionhead who was found neglected and abandoned earlier in his life.

Basically, this is my first rabbit adoption and I’m feeling indecisive about this one for some reason. Would adopting a rabbit at that age be very difficult for someone new into the rabbit world? Any health concerns I should be aware of at this point?

When it comes down to it: Would you recommend it? I do have the option of looking out for other rabbits, but I also feel more inclined to adopt this one because of his story and his current situation.

More background information:

• used to be an indoor rabbit, has lived as an outdoor for over a year now

• he’s going to be an indoor rabbit with me

• neutered

• does not enjoy nail trimmed, brushing or being held (is it possible for me to socialize him?)

• independent; does not snuggle much (again, can I change that if I put some effort into it?)

• claimed to be “litter box trained” but prefers to excrete anywhere, probably to mark his territory

Thanks for your help

[Roberta]

Hi Kelly, no rabbit comes with a guarantee. For the most part he sounds like a normal bun trying to cope in a stressful situation. An older bun is certainly worth taking in and you will find that without another bunny there (well, one he doesn’t get on with) his behavior will change. Being back indoors will make a difference too. It won’t happen overnight and will require time and patience. Most bunnies don’t like nail trims but do adapt to a routine.
I think this little guy is worth it. My vote is Yes.

[Sarita]

Roberta is spot on and I totally agree with her – I would take a 5 to 6 year old bun over a baby any day.

[Megabunny]

Oh yeah. Lionhead are soooo darned cute at any age. Honestly, 10 years, if they live that long or longer, can be a looooong time for some people to have a rabbit. So while this probably sounds insensitive, at 6 years of age, if he’s not the friendliest bun, well, you won’t feel so tied to him for a decade. I know. That sounds terrible, but especially if it’s your first pet rabbit, an older one may be extra good for that reason. Just know that you have to enjoy being a bunny slave and not necessarily getting instant devotion from him. You have to enjoy feeding him right and take satisfaction from keeping his cage clean. You will have to figure him out and love him for who he is. I say go for it!

[Little Lion Head]

used to be an indoor rabbit, has lived as an outdoor for over a year now: You will likely see a huge difference in his demeanor being indoors!

neutered: Since he’s neutered and an older bun, his litter box skills will likely get sorted out once he’s comfy w/ his new home

does not enjoy nail trimmed, brushing or being held (is it possible for me to socialize him?): Honestly, no bun enjoys this! Mine absolutely HATE it! You’ll learn tricks to the first two and you might eventually get to hold him, but most buns just don’t tolerate it. That doesn’t mean he might not hop on your lap or come to you for pets though!

independent; does not snuggle much (again, can I change that if I put some effort into it?): Again, even if he never snuggles, he might still love a good petting session!

The nice thing about an older bun–you’ll know their personality for the most part when you get them. And they are less likely to dig and chew! Bonus!

Sounds worth it to me

[Kelly]

Thanks for all of the responses! Reading them made me more eager :3 I think I’m gonna do it!

[Roberta]

We will want pics, it’s mandatory for new bunnies ?

[Samicles]

When I was younger I adopted a rabbit that was 6 when we got him. He lived to be 13 years old and due to certain circumstances he was an outdoor rabbit for a year. When he lived outdoors he also pooped everywhere, but once he was back to being an indoor bunny his litter-box habits went right back to normal. Don’t worry so much about his age. I’m sure he’ll be a wonderful companion.

[LittlePuffyTail]

I would, definitely. I bet it will make your heart glad to help out an older rabbit in need. And, while older rabbits can have health issues, so can all rabbits. I’ve had young rabbits with lots of problems.

I don’t consider 5-6 that old for a smaller breed. Both my current buns are 8 years old and, while they have calmed down quite a bit, they are still active and full of personality.

[Author]

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