Living with Two Rabbits: Pet-Owning Tips for For the True Rabbit Lover

If you are a rabbit owner or plan to become one, you may consider getting two rabbits instead of just one. Rabbits are incredibly social and playful, and many love having a friend to play with and cuddle with while their human companions aren't home. However, selecting a friend can be difficult for bunny owners. Similarly, getting two rabbits acquainted to new surroundings can take some time. The following steps will help transition your single bunny home to a double bunny home.

First, if you are finding a new partner for the rabbit, make sure that the rabbit is involved in the process. If the rabbit is allowed to choose his or her new friend, it will make the bonding process much easier. Not all rabbits get along, so it's important to let them check each other out first. Many shelters and rescue agencies can set up a "bunny blind date," where your rabbit can meet a few rabbits and find a good match. If instead you are looking for two bunnies to start off, inquire within shelters or rescues about pairs that are already bonded. I recently adopted two bonded Dutch rabbits that are the best of friends, and they spend the majority of the day together.

When you bring your new rabbit or pair home, make sure that you have a large enough cage for both of then to live in comfortable. I would also suggest purchasing an exercise pen (or x-pen) so that you can give your rabbits some out of cage time without having to watch them. Make sure that the cage has a litter box, litter (not made of pine or cedar), a water bottle or bowl, a food bowl, a soft surface to rest on, and toys to provide amusement. A well-stocked cage will help a rabbit from getting bored, hungry, or lonely.

One downside to having two rabbits at once is the additional cost of food, bedding, and vet bills. Remember that one rabbit alone is expensive, and two doubles the cost. Make sure you have money put aside for veterinary expenses and basic supplies, along with emergencies. As all pet owners know, pet care is very expensive. Make sure to also have a vet who specializes in small animals. As rabbits have sensitive health issues, you need to have a vet who is knowledgeable in rabbits. The House Rabbit Society (www.rabbit.org) has a great list of rabbit specialists throughout the U.S.

During playtime, give the rabbits time to explore and get to know each other. Playtime also gives you the chance to observe any potential problems in the rabbits' bond. You can also see which rabbit is dominant and which is submissive. When my rabbits are out playing, the female is the aggressor of the two. The male often lets her boss him around, and he takes care of grooming her as well.

Overall, having a pair of rabbits is great fun! You will have the chance to watch them cuddle with each other, play together, and of course, get into trouble. Two rabbits do equal a bit more work than just one, but they are also fun companions to keep inside your house. Have fun with your new pair of pets!