Getting started:

• 1st neutral territory -- bonding space

• 2nd neutral territory -- dating space. Bathrooms are good options

• Side-by-side pens about 6” apart. With spacers so they can’t push the pens together (this is to ensure they cannot bite through the pens)

• Switch litter boxes every day. You can also switch the bunnies back and forth between habitats to fully immerse them in the other’s scent.

• Mirrored dishes and litter boxes.

• “Teddy bun” to trade scents.

• Pen covers – ensure no accidents from an escapee. Bunnies have long memories and it can be difficult to bond after a fight.

Dating Game:

• Place bunnies side by side heads facing same direction

• Couples massage

• Share leafy greens

• Do not allow fighting

• Keep the dates short, increase time gradually

• Always end on a positive note

Almost There:

• Increase time of bonding dates

• Let them stay together as long as you can supervise

• Combine living spaces

• Spend one night together

• Lighten supervision after 48 hours of co-habitation

Good Signs:

• Bunnies are not fighting

• Ignoring one another

• Grooming one another

• Leaning into each other

• Lying near one another in their pens

• Self-grooming

• Presenting for grooming

• Sharing food

STOP:

• Humping or chasing is not tolerated by the other rabbit

• One or both of the bunnies seem excessively stressed (seek immediate vet care if injury occurs or if either bunny stops eating/pooping)

• Aggressive grooming

• Chasing is not tolerated

• Both bunnies want to be “top” bunny

• Nipping backside or underside

• Grooming is too rough

• Defensive stance tense overall body, ears back

Additional notes:

• Stay positive and be patient

• Slow and steady wins the race

• Humping or chasing is normal as long as the rabbits are tolerating it.

• Talk to your rabbits! Always keep a positive tone. Tell them they are “good bunnies.” Encouraging words creates positive energy for you and them!