fur pulling in bonded pair

Question
Hi,

I have adopted 2 rescue rabbits, a female called Belle, and a male called Bugsy. They are both neutered.

We adopted these rabbits from RSPCA about 6 months ago. We chose Bugsy and Belle. They bonded the rabbits for us, and they came home a couple of weeks later. All was hunkey dory, apart from the usual humping to establish dominance. Belle is the boss!

The problem started when we had to move them inside as scaffolding was being put up where their shed is. Bugsy started face mounting and refusing to groom Belle. I'm guessing he was making a play for top rabbit in this new territory. I started to notice tufts of Bugsy's fur were missing- not down to the skin, just the top coat.

They are back in their shed now, but she is still fur pulling. The fur on his back is quite patchy. They seem to get on fine apart from that, cuddling up together, follwing each other around the garden.

Should I separate them, or just let them get on with it? I don't want them to be lonely, but also am worried about bugsy being bullied.

They have a big shed with a 2m run attached, and are free range in the garden 4-5 hours a day.

I should just mention that Belle was brought back to the rescue for bullying another rabbit. She is very feisty! Maybe I should separate them and get them another pal each?

Thank you so much for taking the time to read this long winded email. I love them so much already, and want to do what is best for them.

Thanks again,

Anna

Answer
Dear Anna,

Sorry for the delay.  Series of emergencies now resolved. Apologies!

In short:  Do not separate them.  They are bonded, and would grieve if they were apart.

We have a few couples where one bullies the other occasionally.  But the love and cuddles make up for it.  (Our foster bunny Kit bullies her mate, Bear, mercilessly. But then you'll see them cheek to cheek in bliss, and realize they could not be apart!)  Like human matches, not every bunny match is made in heaven.  But that doesn't mean it needs to be broken up.

To help with their bond, make sure they have *lots* of space so he can get away from her, and perhaps a little hidey box with two entrances so he can retire from her attentions when she gets too rough.

Hope that helps!

Dana