do I get another bunny? help

[Meg x]

-sorry if this is already a thread I’m new to the website and I’m not quite sure how to work it yet -
I currently have a very content and happy house bun, Peter, that I rescued from the street in Manchester. He free roams (and destroys) the house. I’m wondering if his destructiveness is due do boredom. We do have a dog who Peter is completely obsessed with however my dog doesn’t seem interested whatsoever and simply gets up and leaves (he’s very old and quite frankly can’t be bothered with Peter zooming about next to him) peter is genuinely content and seems to be happy all the time however I would like your advice as to whether you think I should get another rabbit. I am aware that rabbits are very very social and they do tend to need another rabbit but I’m very worried that Peter simply would just not want another rabbit in the house as he is content at the moment and shows no signs of loneliness, the only thing making me consider it is of course my knowledge of the fact that rabbits need company and his relentless destructive behaviour. Thank you in advance and sorry for my rambling x

 

[Popsicles]

Destructive behaviour can often be attributed to hormones, so you might consider getting him castrated? It could also help with litter training (how is that going?)
You also need to make sure he hasn’t got any access to wires etc if he is prone to chew.
Not all rabbits need to have a friend, especially if they are indoors and often have company. I have an indoor rabbit alone, and she is not keen on any other rabbits so far, and doesn’t like to share her space - As we are often home, she just likes to hang out with us anyway.

 

[Meg x]

Litter training is a nightmare I was thinking about getting him neutered but I’m just so bloody worried about him going under anesthetic. All the wires are protected in the house from when my dog was younger because he was a chewer too (we’ve had no luck haha). Thank you for your advice

 

[Popsicles]

The risk under anaesthetic is very low, especially with a good rabbit vet. The procedure is a lot quicker and easier than a spat for a female rabbit, and so carries even less risk. It probably is the only real solution to improving litter training and destructive behaviours.
Where in the UK do you live? Manchester?

 

[Meg x]

I live in Manchester yes

 

[Popsicles]

Depending on your ability to travel, there is a great rabbit vet, Molly Varga, about 45 minutes away from Manchester. Otherwise you can check here for a rabbit vet:
https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/rabbit-care-advice/rabbit-friendly-vets/rabbit-friendly-vet-list/

 

[Meg x]

I’ve got a great vet at the moment, I’ll speak to her about a plan going forward. Thank you for your help

 

[Popsicles]

Is she good with rabbits? Not all great dog and cat vets are good rabbit Vets so it would be worth checking. Any other help don’t hesitate to post again!

 

[Meg x]

I’ve not had any issues/worries so far however saying that, it won’t hurt to have a look on that website especially for the procedure so thank you again!