Can you separate a bonded pair?

[Dobby]

I have a lovely house rabbit and we were so happy till I was told they needed to live in pairs. I love this rabbit and want it to be happy so I adopted another rabbit and went through weeks of working on getting them bonded. They get on really well together but the new rabbit has been an absolute nightmare. It poos everywhere except in the litter tray, escapes around the house and chews anything it can get its teeth on. I have tried for a whole year but it’s behaviour has put a huge strain on the family. My husband has been very patient but we are at the point he now wants me to rehome it. I am so concerned about how this will affect my original rabbit that has bonded so well. My husband has suggested we give them both up for adoption but it would break my heart to let go of my original pet.
Is breaking up the bond possible or is it cruel, I would really appreciate any advice or help.

 

[Niomi]

If it were me, I would keep both rabbits, and I would keep them in the same cage, and let them out of their cage once or twice a day. I would put up a play pen for the new rabbit, so I could keep his mess contained while I worked on litter box training. I would put the play pen in the same area where your other rabbit has free range, so they can be next to each other through the bars during their out of cage time. Good luck with whatever you decide to do.

 

[Floyd2019]

I think breqking a bonded pair would definitely upset both bunnies. More consistent litter training and training in general may be in order. How old is the new bunny, what is the gender and breed? All of these things need to be taken into consideration. Bunnies will always be different but usually you can find a way to make it work