Rabbits are highly social animals that suffer when kept alone, and bonding pairs or groups is essential for meeting their social welfare needs.
A solitary rabbit is a welfare-compromised rabbit. The social bond between bonded rabbits provides grooming, security, and companionship that profoundly improves quality of life. When one rabbit in a pair dies, the survivor often shows grief responses requiring prompt bonding with a new companion. Rescue organisations often bond rabbits before rehoming, providing ready-bonded pairs.