Traumatised rabbit

Question
Hi.  We had two rabbits but on Thursday we noticed we couldnt find one of them, he had been left out overnight in the garden (they have both been left before).  It now looks like he was taken by something (we think a fox might have been roaming by the state of the bin bags).  The other one now doesn't seem to know what to do with himself and keeps trying to get into the conservatory and just lies under the sofa, he's never done this before and we think he must have seen his mate being attacked and taken.  Is there anything we can do apart from keeping an eye on him?
Thanks

Answer
Dear Sue,

The poor bunny probably did, indeed, witness his friend's terrible demise, and this undoubtedly has traumatized him, as you suspect.  If his appetite is okay, just keep an eye on him and make sure you give him lots of love and comfort.  Don't force him to go outdoors again unless he chooses to do so, and I'm sure I don't have to tell you now that you should never leave your bunnies in a predator-accessible garden overnight.  It takes only a second for tragedy to strike, as you have learned the hard way.  I am very sorry for your loss.

If your bunny shows any sign of inappetence, please see:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/ileus.html

Psychological stress can induce ileus, which can be life-threatening if left untreated.  You can find a rabbit vet here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

I hope you will be able to contact the Rabbit Welfare Association in due time to set up some "blind dates" and let your bunny choose a new mate.  He will need the comfort of someone of his own kind to help him get through this.  The rabbit rescuers at the RWA can help you with bonding and other tips.

I hope this helps.

Dana