Rabbits are highly social animals that suffer from solitary housing — properly bonded pairs or groups have dramatically better welfare outcomes than single rabbits.
The welfare difference between a single rabbit and a bonded pair is profound. Social grooming, companionable resting, play chasing and reassurance during frightening events are only available to socially housed rabbits. Single rabbits may appear content but lack the positive welfare indicators — active social engagement, exploratory play, and reduced vigilance during rest — that bonded rabbits display routinely. The bonding process requires patience and skill, but the welfare investment is repaid manifold in both rabbits lives. Welfare organisations now universally recommend rabbit company as a non-negotiable welfare requirement.