Rabbits and guinea pigs

Question
Hi I have a pet rabbit that is nearly 1 year old now. I belive she is lonely and I want to get her a friend. I've heard that rabbits bond well with guinea pigs. I would like to now if I should get my rabbit spayed before getting a guinea pig? Also do they bond immediately or does it take some time? How can I get them to bond? Thanks Jade

Answer
Hi Jade,

We do know of some people that house rabbits and piggies together..but I would suggest not doing so.  There is a difference in dietary requirements between rabbits and piggies.  They also could possibly carry dieseases that could spread.  Piggies do carry bordetella (and rabbits sometimes carry it sub-clinically).  But the one thing that really concerns me most when buns and piggies are together are those powerful rear legs of a rabbit.  Just in playing, not even considering if the rabbit became spooked, one kick from those hind legs can severely injure or kill a piggie.  Honestly, we have let some of our smaller buns play with our piggies in the "bunny room" and they pretty much ignored each other and played with their own kind.  It is one of those bonding situations like with cats and rabbits...some work and some don't.  It all depends on the personalities of the rabbit and the piggie...and sometimes your patience.  Will they get along?  No way to tell unless you try it.  I would just be very cautious and it should be supervised visits.

Have you considered adopting a rabbit friend from a shelter?  Most of the rabbits that are adopted from rescues have been seen by a vet and are generally spayed/neutered.  The fosters know the individual rabbit's personality and that makes an easier bond with you bun.  Plus, they are also skilled at bonding techniques and can start the process for you and guide you along the way.  And there are thousands of needy rabbits out there that would love a friend too....same thing for piggies.

But to directly answer your questions....rabbits and piggies can bond together.  A spayed rabbit should be easier due to the spay removing the territorial issues and bonding can be immediate or may take some time.  When we are bonding any animals....we do so on neutral territory.  We also introduce just a little bit of stress...like a ride in the car....to force them to seek comfort in each other.  This bond can work...but stay cautious just because of the power of the rabbit's hind legs.

Randy