loss of a cage mate

Question
I have a male Dutch rabbit approximately 3 years old that had a Holland Lop female rabbit (spayed0 for a companion for 15 months. The female passed away yesterday (natural causes--not a sickness), and now the surviving male will not eat. I am assuming that he is missing her. He is a healthy male, but I am wondering how long should I allow this to continue before I seek vet care for him. Will he eventually get used to her absence? Do you think he can still smell her scent? Should I clean the cage to get rid of her scent? Could you also send your response to vicki.jackson@ecolab.com. Thank you in advance for your response.  

Answer
I am sorry to hear of your loss.  This is unfortunately not uncommon, he is mourning the loss of his partner.  If he still isn't eating, I would take him into a vet to make sure he isn't dehydrated in addition to not eating.

He probably can still smell her.  You might check out this article, I know people who have had success with a stuffed animal in place of their partner.  http://www.rabbit.org/journal/4-7/bereavedbunny.html

You might also check to see if your vet knows of a rabbit needing a home, if he continues to be depressed.

I wouldn't clean the cage, unless you are cleaning it as part of your regular routine, just so his routine is not disrupted.

Kim