Can a rabbit Live without a Companion?

nikitanain · May 28, 2010

I had got 2 rabbits, Jim and Chester but Chester died of an infection... Jim is the only rabbit with me right now and I was wondering if it's fine if I keep him alone.. He is bonding well with my dogs and follows them everywhere.. I spend a lot of time with him, he has a lot of toys and he keeps him self busy with his antics..

Since Jim is going to be a large rabbit I was hoping that I can keep him alone, if I manage to potty train him then I will let him roam around the house, provided that my dogs accept him...

If for any reason my dogs dont bond with him then I will get him another rabbit but I was hoping that I can keep this as the last option...

Any help is appreciated, thanks!

Inle_Rabbitry · May 28, 2010

Yes, rabbits can live a very happy, healthy, and productive life without a companion.

Just like people, every rabbit is different-some NEED to have a friend and others would rather kill their company than snuggle up with them. I've seen some rabbits get depressed and stop eating because their companion died and others that just became more playfull and attached to their owners once another rabbit was out of the picture. So it really all depends on your rabbit's personality, age, and health.

However, from what you have posted, your rabbit seems to be doing quite fine without the other bun around. So I would say that in your particular case, you and your rabbit will be just fine without another companion.

jujub793 · May 28, 2010

lucky YOU , you will be the companion!

nikitanain · May 29, 2010

Thanks for replying... It's a relief to know that I wont have to get him a companion if he bonds with my dogs..

I shall wait for about 5 - 7 days before making a final decision since just in case I need to get another rabbit, I feel that this would be the best time to get one..

Luluznewz · May 29, 2010

I wouldnt get a new rabbit unless YOU actually want one. It seems like your bunny is doing fine, and taking on a new pet has to be something you both want.

Just make sure that you will enjoy the new pet as much as your rabbit might.

nikitanain · May 29, 2010

If the decision is left up to me then I would rather keep 1 rabbit and spend a lot of time with him, rather than getting another one and then have time for only one of the two...

As of now Jim seems to be fine, he sleeps for most of the day and spends the night playing with toys and me (am nocturnal but Jim's cage is in another room)..

When ever I open the cage he rubs his head against my hand and asks for a massage, he absolutely loves gentle massages!