rabbits interaction with other pets

Question
We have a new pet rabbit who is litter trained and very tame. Are there any concerns I should have regarding my dog and cat around the rabbit and what if any are the transitions the rabbit will go through in her new home?

Answer
Usually rabbits get on well with other pets. However, there are some "introduction" issues that can help this go smoothly, especially if the animals have never lived with another of this species before. Check out the FAQs http://rabbit.org/journal/1/dogs.html and
http://rabbit.org/journal/2-11/cats-and-rabbits.html

Many times it's the rabbit who ends up as "alpha" animal! But depending on the personalities it's best to go slowly to ensure success.

As for transition to a new home, some rabbits are very bold and claim everything as their territory right away, but most "acquire" territory bit by bit over time. Give her plenty of time to exercise her natural curiosity and explore (without the dog and cat around if they haven't gotten to happy coexistence yet). If she can get in and out of her cage on her own that's best--rabbits often will do an "explore/retreat" kind of mode, going out as far as they feel comfortable, retreating to the safety of their cage or other home base, then coming out again when their curiosity lures them.

Spending lots of time on the floor while she is exploring is  a great way to build trust and interest in the relationship between the rabbit and you and other people in the home. You can just be reading or doing paperwork, but consider doing that sitting on the floor and allowing her to come up and inspect you at her speed and comfort level.

Just asking the question shows you're a sensitive pet caretaker! Have fun getting to know your new companion, and have fun exploring rabbit.org for more info on behavior and care. And we're always around too....

Gina