The Long-Term Benefits of a Partner

By Amy S.

In past issues, we’ve talked about bunny speed dating and how to bond bunnies. Now it’s time to consider the benefits of bonded bunnies. This article ends this series by circling back to the beginning:

Why should I find my rabbit a partner?

Rabbits are social creatures. Think about wild European rabbits, the ancestors to domestic rabbits: They live in warrens, where many live and work together in groups for protection from predators, acquisition of food, and raising their young. It makes sense their domestic cousins share this characteristic. Many experts report domestic rabbits are generally happier when bonded to a partner. In addition to emotional support, partners also offer physical support when one bunny is ill and needs some help (for example, to balance). When rabbits are stressed – for instance, when going to the vet – the company of another rabbit is comforting. 

Let’s look at the observable benefits for both bunnies and their humans. When they have a partner, rabbits experience less boredom and loneliness. This means they will always have a companion even when their human parents aren’t home. Moreover, less boredom often means less destructiveness. Most bunny owners with bonded bunnies could tell you how happy it makes them to see their bunnies snuggling together. It’s quite an adorable sight! When you adopt a partner for your rabbit, you are also rescuing another rabbit in need of a forever home.

Another thing to note is that doubling the number of rabbits in the house does not necessarily double the expense or work if they are bonded partners. They share their living space and you can perform routine care activities in a similar manner (e.g., feeding them together, cleaning their shared litter box). The exception, of course, is medical expenses because each one needs to receive his/her own vet care.

Keep in mind there are some rabbits that simply do not seem to get along with other rabbits. They may be happier with just their humans or another species, such as a cat.

If you have a solo bunny, you may want to consider finding him/her a friend. And, if you are starting your search for a rabbit to adopt, you may want to consider adopting an already bonded pair.Amy