Companion Animals

Companion Animal Welfare and Rabbit Bonding and Companionship

Rabbits are highly social animals requiring bonded companions, with solitary housing causing significant welfare harm through loneliness and boredom.

Key Facts

Rabbits in the wild live in social groups and show signs of distress when isolated
Bonded rabbit pairs spend up to 60% of their time in close proximity
Bonding must be introduced carefully through neutral territory introductions
Female-male pairs are easiest to bond when both are neutered
Rabbits without companions show higher rates of stereotypies and stress hormones

Welfare Considerations

Solitary rabbit housing causes preventable welfare suffering through loneliness. Every rabbit deserves a bonded companion and no rabbit should be kept alone.

What You Can Do

Provide a bonded companion for all pet rabbits
Follow slow introduction protocols when bonding rabbits
Neuter both rabbits before attempting permanent bonding