Rabbits are highly social animals that suffer from solitary housing. Understanding bonding requirements helps provide the companionship essential for rabbit wellbeing.
Rabbit social welfare is among the most neglected aspects of companion rabbit care. Wild rabbits live in social groups of up to 20 individuals — solitary housing is profoundly unnatural and stressful. Bonded rabbits reduce each other's stress through allogrooming, sleeping together, and companionship during the vulnerable times humans are absent. Introduction of rabbits must be carefully managed to avoid severe aggression, but well-bonded pairs consistently show better behavioral and physiological welfare than singles. Neutering both rabbits before introduction improves bonding success and reduces reproductive health problems.