Rabbits are highly social animals and require both rabbit and human company.
Here are our top tips on providing appropriate company for your rabbits;
Everybunny needs somebunny!
Rabbits should be kept in groups of two rabbits or more. Although they enjoy the company of their owners, rabbits can become lonely without social interaction with their own species. It’s fine to keep your rabbits in groups of more than two, although remember that they will need more space, food and water.
The best combination of rabbits is a male and female who have both been neutered.
Neutering
We recommend neutering both male and female rabbits, for the social and health benefits.
Castrating male rabbits reduces the chance of aggression and urine spraying, makes litter training easier, prevents them developing cancer of the testicles and allows them to live safely with another bonded rabbit. Male rabbits can be castrated from around 3 months of age.
Spaying female rabbits prevents unwanted pregnancies, reduces the chance of aggression, prevents them from developing cancer of the uterus or ovaries and allows them to live safely with another bonded rabbit. Female rabbits can be spayed from around 4 – 6 months of age.
Rabbits and guinea pigs
Rabbits should not be kept with guinea pigs, as they both need to socialise with their own species; additionally, rabbits can accidentally hurt guinea pigs with their strong hind legs.
Making friends
New rabbits should be introduced slowly and carefully. Initially keep them in separate homes with a mesh divider in the run to separate them, so they can get used to the sight and smell of each other. Once they are relaxed in each other’s company, gradually allow them together for short, supervised periods. After a few weeks, they should be ready to live happily together.
Friends for life
Once rabbits have been successfully bonded, they should always be kept together, even for trips to the vet, as it is very stressful to separate them.
Remember that we are offering FREE rabbits check-ups with our Registered Veterinary Nurses throughout June, so please book an appointment for more advice on your rabbits’ behaviour, health and general care.
