Bunny Bonding

Bunny bonding can be thought of as the mystery side of owning and rescuing bunnies.  Many romantically think because they see recently weaned litter-mate rabbits all snuggled together, close and personal, that all one needs to do for bunny bonding to take place is take them home and put them in a cage together - not necessarily.

The conventional wisdom for bunny bonding is not to proceed with it until both (or all) rabbits are neutered (so earliest about 5 - 6 months).  The reason for this is hormones.  When those cute recently weaned bunnies reach their “teens”, the hormones start kicking in, and a little fussing and fighting can start “kicking in” as well.  Reality has a way of shattering the romantic ideal.

The number one rule in bunny bonding is no fighting allowed.  They are thin-skinned (literally), so scratches and bites can lead to infections which can lead to disease (plus the psychological effect on the wounded bun). 


The key to success in bunny bonding is you.  Theoretically any two rabbits can be bonded because they are social creatures.  Rabbits are not prejudiced against each other.  You can bond a male & female, male & male, female & female, old & young, a Giant Flemish & a Netherland Dwarf - I think you get the picture.  Ideally, a male & female make for the closest bonds.  What is needed is your determination to see through the bunny bonding process to completion. 

With some rabbits it’s friends at first sight (rare) and for others it takes months and months.  Plan 2 - 3 weeks but be prepared for 2 - 3 months.  There is a phenomenon called “propiniquity” that by virtue of being around another person on a consistent basis a sense of attachment will be developed.  The same is true for rabbits.  Don’t give up!  Have a sense of certainty.  Remember, you are the head of the warren - you are the boss.  When it comes to bunnies you cannot be timid or else they will take advantage of you.  Building trust between you and the bunnies is what you are after.


For bunny bonding you will need two cages or pens.  Have them placed close together.  You will need neutral areas in which the rabbits can have encounter sessions.  You will need to wear gloves and a long sleeve shirt in case you have to break up a bunny fight.  Some experienced bunny bonders use a spray bottle full of water to keep aggressive bunnies at bay.  Two people working together is the best scenario. 


You will need to be observant, especially for signs of a rabbit going into attack mode.  A rabbit’s ear will go back, his tail will go up, and his body will become tense.  This is easy to spot but rabbits are so fast you need to be on your toes.  Rule number one:  NO Fighting.          Bunny Bonding Continued