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Rabbit licking other rabbits eye

22 9:56:28

Question
Hi Dr. Krempels,

I have two neutered male rabbits around 3 years old. For the past 2 years they have had to be separated because they would fight if together. They recently just began hanging out again and are now BFF's. There is one that is somewhat bigger and acts more like the boss; the other is a small mini-rex who has glaucoma in his eye. I noticed that the bigger one is constantly licking the rex's sick eye. I'm wondering if this could be harmful or if it's a sign of support? Thanks in advance for your lagomorph knowledge!

Answer
Dear Jean,

The grooming is a sign of support, and is very sweet.  :)  It may actually even help, especially if the glaucoma bunny has runny eyes.  So I would not discourage this behavior.  It will just help cement their bond, and if the groomed bunny isn't avoiding the kisses, I'm sure he's enjoying the attention.

Glad they are BFFs again!

Dana