Bunny Bonding

Rabbits are very social creatures and are usually happier and healthier with a bunny companion. A bonded pair of rabbits can entertain and comfort each other during the day while you’re at work. If you are considering a friend for your bunny, be aware that it is up to your rabbit to choose their mate, not you. Like humans, rabbits are very particular about who they associate with.

Finding your bunny a friend

At Red Door, we specialize in bunny bonding by using the “speed-dating” method. We will introduce your bunny to all available rabbits and observe their interactions to give you our best recommendations for a companion. Keep in mind that the bonding process does take patience and time- anywhere from 2 days to 2 months. Your Red Door bonding counselor will offer advice, as well as tips and tricks to get them together.

1. Rabbits must be spayed/neutered at least 1 month prior to their first date.

Otherwise they will be controlled by their hormones. Fixed males can still have viable sperm up to a month after neuter surgery.

2. Opposite sex bondings work best.

Although some males will accept another male friend, female rabbits are territorial by nature, so we do not recommend introducing 2 females, even fi they are both spayed.

3. "Speed dating" is a great way to introduce your bunny to potential mates.

At Red Door, we use an introduction screen to separate the rabbits when they first meet (in case of hate at first sight). It may take up to 3 visits to the shelter before your bunny chooses a friend.

4. Let our bonding experts assess the behaviors of your rabbit and their dates.

We look for positive signs such as indifference, grooming, eating together, non-aggressive mounting and relaxed body language. It is important to know when to intervene when aggressive behaviors arise.

5. At home, you must set up 2 separate areas for each rabbit.

They should be able to see and smell each other, but not close enough to bite through their cages. You will swap their litter boxes and living spaces each day as they get accustomed to each other's scents. There will be poop wars!

6. Neutral territory is a must for dates at home!

Once you bring a second bunny home, the dates must continue in an area that has not been marked by your bunny - we suggest the bathtub or the back seat of a car.

7. End each date on a positive note.

If the bunnies get too frisky or aggressive, calm them down and then end the date. Be mindful of circling and chasing, as it can escalate very quickly.

8. Extend the time of each dating session.

Once the buns can be together without any spats, try leaving them alone for several hours, then overnight.

9. Remain calm and patient throughout the process, or the rabbits will pick up on your anxiety.

Expect a few road blocks - we always say: "two steps forward and one step back."