Rabbits are incredibly social creatures and are generally much happier in pairs.  A bonded pair are a joy to behold as they groom each other, often in those hard to reach areas (especially in and around the ears and mid back section).  They also provide mutual entertainment in that if one is curious in something, the other isn’t very far away (‘partners in crime’). They snuggle into each other and often one will be on guard whilst the other has a quick nap.  It is the most natural thing for a ’social creature’ to seek companionship from a fellow species, they understand each other and have company 24 hours a day, not just when you are back from work or have the time to give them a cuddle.

Also we wouldn’t advise a bunny’s sole companion to be an alternative animal resident eg a cat or a dog.  Eventhough you may see very sweet ‘youtube’ videos of bunnies appearing to nuzzle into a cat whilst it grooms itself – if you understand their language you will see a cat or dog doesn’t know how to respond to their requests – another bunny knows instinctually what its colleague is asking of them.  For example when we first kept our house rabbit (jezebel) we had a resident geriatric cat under whom she would wedge herself as soon as she saw her starting to groom, we also worked from home so thought we were all she needed - though the minute she was bonded with her new boyfriend, we were virtually ignored if she could sneak an ear groom from him.  As sad as it was for us, it was right for her to have a bunny buddy!  And besides, they got up to all manner of shinanigans whilst we were sleeping – much more fun!

We would always advise adopting a pre-bonded pair from a rescue centre if you have no existing bunny residents.  If you have an existing rabbit in your household it is imperative that your rabbit is neutered and to wait a 3 month period post op for the hormonal levels to die down.  Likewise the new rabbit needs to be neutered to provide the best chance of a successful union.  We have a guide to bonding rabbits and the speed and success of the partnership is often down to the temperament of the 2 personalities - it can be difficult and requires patience and understanding. Some rabbit owners are lucky in that their existing rabbit is very accommodating to the new kid on the block, why its often better to get two rabbits from the same litter from outset as they will be less likely to fight.

But once you have got there, the pure joy you experience just seeing them going about their day-to-day activities, getting into mischief together, sharing a dandelion leaf and just chilling out with each other makes the effort so worthwhile, your bunny will thank you for it with a big binky or a bunny flop next to their chum!