Unsure about getting my rabbit a friend? Help?

[Cucubert]

I have a three year old, neutered male dwarf rabbit named Hazel-Rah. I love him to bits but I feel bad because I don't let him out often enough (my roommate and I both work full time and often come home too exhausted to give him the exercise time he deserves) and I know that rabbits normally live in groups. At my old apartment, there were three cats he palled around with, but he is our only pet in this new apartment and I worry he is lonely. He does a lot of fussing lately, but has never been overly comfortable with a lot of handling. He likes petting sometimes and will play "chase" with us at times when he is let out, but other times will hide under his shelf to avoid being touched.

Lately, my job has become more steady and I feel I could comfortably afford another rabbit. However, he has never had to share his cage before and has never interacted with another rabbit. My concern is that he would be scared of or even be aggressive towards a "stranger" bunny. I don't want to bring in another rabbit only for him or her to be stressed or injured.

What is the best course of action? Would another rabbit be a good addition and lift his mood? Or is he too old to have to deal with a stranger in his midst? If another bunny is a good idea, should I get a male or a female? Should I have this second bunny fixed as well? Can I get a younger bunny (easier for me to find since I can go to a pet shop)? Or should I be looking for one closer to his age? What would be the best way to introduce this new rabbit into his life? Do I need a second cage?

If anyone can answer my questions, I'd be VERY grateful.

 

[J.Bosley]

I would look into adopting an already fixed bun! Sometimes they allow you to foster or do bunny dates so you can see how they will react to one another.

 

[funnybunnymummy]

I agree. Contact a shelter or rescue. They should have experienced volunteers who can help you choose the right rabbit friend for your bun and help walk you through the bonding process.

We just recently brought home a friend for Gus. I couldn't imagine doing it without the guidance from the rescue!

To answer a few of our questions:

1. Yes, a bunny friend should make your rabbit happier.
2. Rabbits can be bonded at any age. It just depends on their personality.
3. Male-female bonds are most successful, especially for less experienced rabbit owners.
4. You can bond an unspayed female with a neutered male, but they will bond better if both are altered.
5. Yes, you can bond a younger rabbit with an older rabbit, but both need to be adults. Baby/adult bonds are less likely to last/succeed once the baby hits puberty.
6. Introduce both rabbits on neutral territory under close supervision.
7. You may need a second cage at first, or you may not (we were lucky and Pepper moved in with Gus right off the bat!)

Hope that helps!

Rue

 

[Nancy McClelland]

:yeahthat:

 

[Jackelope]

He probably wouldn't object to having a girlfriend. Shelters usually accomodate situations like yours and will work with you to find a suitable friend for your bunny. Give them a call to ask about it.

 

[Chrisdoc]

I think your bunny would enjoy having a little lady friend. I think the suggestions offered already are spot on. Get his friend from a shelter and they will probably be able to do bunny dates before you choose to see how they get on. Get a girl who´s been spayed and don´t rush things with them. Bunnies all bond at a different speed, some are much easier than others but I think he´d love having company and someone to cuddle and play with when you´re not there. Good luck and do post some pics of your little guy, would love to see them.