Lops

Question
I have one neutered male and two spayed female lops which all live together.  My females are constantly chewing my male's fur off of his back side.  Mostly he will let them, however we have seen him chase them off at times.  Sometimes, he will look a little raw, but mostly just bald.  My vet doesn't seem to know why, and they don't have any mites/fleas.  Have you seen this?  Is it normal?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Dear Ashlyn,

Sometimes bunnies develop a penchant for overgrooming bonded partners, and only the bunnies know why.  If they are getting plenty of playtime and exercise, maybe they're just trying to get his attention and teasing him to get it.  Who knows?  Bunnies are sometimes mysterious.  :)

But please see:

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

Provide toys and distractions to try and get the gals to break the habit.

Hope they desist soon!

Dana