Two Rabbits

Question
Hi, I have one rabbit and I was thinking of getting another to keep the one I have now company. My one rabbit is already spayed and she has a big neat idea cube condo attached to a pen to live in. If I got another rabbit s/he would be about the same size as the one I have now (About Holland lop size) and preferably a boy.
I have a couple of questions about two bunnies:
1. What are the pros and cons of two rabbits?
2. How much more expensive are two rabbits than one?
3. Will my rabbit still act the same towards me/like me if I get another rabbit?
4. Is is a lot harder to care for two rabbits?
5. About how long does bonding take?
6. Would you overall recommend two rabbits?
Thank you!


Answer
Hi Katherine,

1.  Rabbits are social and enjoy company.  They tend to live longer and happier lives when they have a mate.  The downfall is that they tend to like their mate better than you.  If you don't have several hours a day to spend with the bunny I would recommend a mate.

2.  The only expenses that will drastically increase are vet expenses.  All bunnies need a check-up once a year. Obviously the buck would need to be neutered.  Other than that you are already buying fresh vegetables and feed and they really eat so little compared to larger animals that feeding 2 shouldn't be much more than 1.

3.  Again the doe you have may still love you but more often than not they prefer bonded mates of the same species.  If she is generally passive and loves attention this probably won't change.  It is impossible to say for sure.  Every rabbit is different and they all have unique personalities.

4.  Absolutely not.  Once properly bonded they can share a cage, play space and a litter pan.  The hardest part is that the litter pan will need to be changed more frequently.  If you already change it once a day and give it a good cleaning out once a week this should suffice.

5.  Bonding can take 2 hours to a year.  On average we have been pretty successful at having them properly bonded in under a month.  If you want to make sure that your doe is going to bond well with the buck I would suggest getting a buck from the HRS.  There is an adoption fee but the buck will already be neutered.  The HRS allows visits with your current bun to see if they will be compatible.  The HRS in our area will actually help with bonding.  I am not certain about all regions but the HRS in our area will actually send people to your home to help with the bonding practice.  

6.  If you have the patience to bond them and are willing to make sure they both get proper medical care, feeding, love, toys and attention then absolutely.  If you find the right mate for her your little doe will be happier.  If you adopt the boy from a shelter you will be saving a bunnies life and the best part is that you will have 2 different bunnies with 2 unique personalities.  

I hope this has helped.  If you have anymore questions please let me know.

Pam