Bonding with your bunny…

Most bunnies aren’t cuddly and naturally fear being picked up. Bunnies can get used to being handled if you take the time to gain their trust. Which is why, early socialization is something we pride ourselves in and start to work on from the day the kits are born! Bonding is important and must be done correctly because rabbits are social animals and love interaction. I recommend laying on the floor and letting the bunny come to you. Bunnies are big on smells and must get used to yours! You can entice them with treats to bring them closer and help get them used to you. I look at it like positive reinforcement. Eventually, working day after day, you and your bunny should build a bond.

Bonding bunnies together…

Do you think your bunny needs a friend? Again, rabbits are social animals and love interaction. If you are giving your bunny enough attention, they typically don’t need a friend. In my experience after bonding a bunny that was closely bonded to myself with another bunny, my original bunny didn’t nearly show as much interest in me after she found her mate. Keep that in mind.

What are the best combinations for a bonded pair? Bonding two males is not recommended. It’s not impossible, but not easy. It is typically easier if they’re from the same litter or very very close in age. Typically you see a male/female or female/female bonded pair. It is also possible to bond more than just a pair but of course takes more work and patience.

How do you bond bunnies? Using separate pens or dog crates is the best way to start. Start by keeping a divider, or large gap between the two bunnies. I start my cages far apart and gradually bring them closer together. Grooming between the bunnies can occur once cages are touching, and they can interact with each other nose to nose. When starting to introduce your bunnies together, start in a mutual unmarked area. They can and will show signs of dominance at first. It is your responsibility to gauge and manage it. Humping/mounting, chasing, ignoring each other, snuggling, and grooming are all okay signals. Hissing, growling, thumping, whimpering, fur pulling and biting/fighting are not good or ideal but can happen as the bunnies establish dominance. I recommend bonding at a young age. Starting before they’re sexually mature and or hormonal is easiest. After a spay or neuter, re-bonding may be necessary as hormones could be running high. Re-bonding rabbits after surgery is suggested to start after 4 weeks of recovery. Every bun is different so patience is key as well as spaying & neutering! Taking your time to make sure everyone is safely bonded will give you peace of mind. Your personal bond with your own rabbits is just as important! Rabbits are meant to be a part of your family, not left to sit in a cage it’s whole life!