BONDING TRIO – PEANUT, DOBBY & PONY

Yesterday, we posted about Cheryl & JunHong’s adoption of Pony. While it sounds easy how Pony fit in with already-bonded Peanut & Dobby, it actually was quite an effort! Today, we got the couple to share with us their bonding tips to help bunny parents who are facing bonding challenges!

TIP 1: FIND A NEUTRAL SPACE
Resident rabbits will be territorial in their familiar grounds. Try to find a corner in the house that is not usually used by the rabbits to conduct the bonding. It would dramatically lessen aggression & territorial behaviour!

TIP 2: RESPECT THE ALPHA
Rabbits are hierarchy-driven and it’s important to maintain this balance. Bring your resident (or alpha) to meet the new rabbit to seek their approval first. During bonding, introduce the alpha first and the rest will follow suit.

TIP 3: STAY CALM
Our bunnies are sensitive and can get affected by our emotions. If we get frustrated during bonding, they will pick up on our vibe and relate it to a negative situation. It is important that we remain calm throughout the session.

TIP 4: BE PATIENT
Rushing a bond can create unnecessary stress to you and the rabbits. Give the new rabbit time to settle down. Let it bond with you, follow by the alpha and the rest of the gang. Pace yourself and give at least a month to see progress.

TIP 5: BE POSITIVE
Like courtship, bonding should be joyful and filled with love! It’s ok to limit to short bursts of 10-15 mins just to let them sniff around and end it on a good note with some treats. If anyone looks stressed (including yourself!), call it a day.

It’s with the above tips in mind, Cheryl and JunHong successfully introduced bonded the trio! It is such a joy to see them playing, eating and snuggling together. We hope these tips help pawrents who are considering multiple rabbits! If you have the commitment and capacity to manage, it will definitely be a bountiful harvest.