Rough Rabbit Grooming

Question
I recently got a new rabbit to be a companion to my other rabbit, and I notice that they groom each other very roughly around the eyes.  I do not think they realize how rough they are.  One of my rabbits is now missing some fur around his eye.  Is this normal?  Will they learn to be more gentle? (They have only been in constant contact for about a week, this is the first time either of them have been in a living situation with another rabbit.)  There is no sign of damage, only missing fur, so I am not worried about their health and safety, just curious.

Answer
Dear Zhasmene,

Overgrooming could be a sign of boredom, but in this case it might just be that the two bunnies are so enthralled with their new buddy that they are engaging in overgrooming just from the novelty.  This should subside as they grow accustomed to each other.

Be sure everyone is spayed/neutered to avoid surprise litters!

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

and please also see:

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

You can find a good vet here:

www.rabbit.org/vets

to be sure this is fur loss due to overgrooming, and not to something that needs treatment, such as mites.

Hope this helps.

Dana