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Keeping more than 1 rabbit together

22 10:36:01

Question
Hi,

My mini rex rabbit passed away last year and we now feel it is time to share our home with another furry rascal. I received contradictory advice on how best to proceed. We would really like 2, we have no preference on sex although we don't want to breed. In places we have been strongly encouraged to have 2 for companionship, and inform me of no problem if buying together at a young age, although on speaking to a friend they said under no circumstances should they be kept together. What is correct? They will both live with us in a very large cage in our spare reception room and will be alone together for some days of the working week, we don't want them to fight but I really would hate for them not to have companionship. Any advice you can give would be greatly received - I am so confused as to what to do for the best. lease could you give any pointers on any problems you may envisage in having the 2 with regards to litter training etc. that I may not have experienced with having just the one in the past please?

Many thanks in advance

Answer
Hi Caroline,

Domestic rabbits are highly socialable and generally enjoy the company of other rabbits.  We have numerous couples and sometimes threesomes or foursomes.  There is a "bonding" process in which to correctly introduce them to each other.  Generally speaking, opposite sex couples are usually the best choice...but spay/neuter is helpful prior to the intro not only to reduce any territorial issues, but also to prevent unwanted litters of kit.  Sometimes the buns will bond themselves and sometimes it takes some work.

If I may, I do have a solution that is a "win-win" for everyone.  Consider adopting a pair of already bonded rabbits from a rescue.  In rescue, we try not to break up a bonded pair so that sometimes makes them harder to adopt.  Most rescues spay/neuter their rabbits.  The fosters already know the personalities of both rabbits and that helps ensure you get a happy couple.  And you get the personal satisfaction of knowing that you have saved multiple lives...not only the pair you are adopting, but you also saved the lives of more rabbits by freeing up space in what is surely a crowded shelter.  Many shelters do have babies due to pregnant does being admitted...but if I might make another suggestion...consider an older couple or either "special needs" as they are often overlooked because of age of medical/physical condition.  You sound like a wonderful person that could do so much to help an older couple or a special needs enjoy life....and many times it will be the first time that they have experienced that.

But to directly answer your question...rabbits do enjoy companionship from another rabbit..or two.

Randy