Grieving bunny

Question
Hi, I recently lost one of my bunnies to mammary cancer (yesterday) after she suffered a heart attack. I am now conscious of my other bunny now that he is alone. I left him with her for a bit of time for him to realise that she had gone to bunny heaven and hope that he has realised this, he sniffed her a couple of times top to bottom and then looked quite disinterested. She had a difficult night I think before she died as she was gasping for breath by morning and I think he must have realised that all was not well with her. He was also in the room when she squealed before she died. I am in no hurry to get another bunny for myself but I am worried about him being lonely. How long would you recommend before I introduce a new friend to him? I know a good rescue centre that try to pair up single rabbits compatibly with other bunnies before you take them home. He was eating last night but it was his first alone since I rescued him. I really don't know what to do for the best for him, he nipped me this morning when I was letting him out, which he has never done in the 4yrs he has been with us.

Thanks,

Karla

Answer
Dear Karla,

It sounds as if your bunny already has said goodbye to his mate, and realizes that she's gone.  But this doesn't mean he's not grieving in his own way.  Whether it's time for him to meet someone new will depend on how he behaves.  It would probably be okay to wait a week or two.  But if he's all  alone and used to having someone to cuddle, it would be kind for you to bring him to your rescuer's foster home for some "blind dates" to see if he can fall in love again.

I know this might be hard for you, since the loss of your bunny was painful.  But know that you have a whole human support network, where he has only you.  If you can't spend enough time with him, it would be good to consider letting him choose a new pal.

It will be a decision that you and he will have to make together.  I know it will be hard, and I give you my sincere condolences on the difficult loss of your girl.  But the pain will pass, and life will go on with her always in your heart.  It might just be another warm little body who's actually in your hands.

I hope this helps.

Dana