Appropriate company for rabbits

Make sure your rabbit has appropriate company

Facts

Rabbits are naturally sociable and normally prefer to be with another rabbit.
A rabbit can develop abnormal behaviour and may suffer if he/she is left without company and has nothing to do for long periods of time.
Rabbits kept together will naturally form a 'pecking order' with some animals being more dominant than others. A rabbit can be bullied if he/she cannot get away from other rabbits that he/she doesn’t like.
Rabbits that are brought up together will usually get on with each other, but if introduced for the first time as adults they may fight.
Neutering reduces the likelihood of fighting in both male and female rabbits.
Rabbits that are well handled by people from a young age can learn to see humans as friends and companions.
Rabbits that receive little handling at an early age, or rough handling at any age, may find human contact distressing. This can be expressed as fearfulness, escape behaviour and aggression.
Rabbits will usually be scared of cats and dogs because they are natural predators, but if introduced to them carefully early in life can develop friendships.

Keep your rabbit with at least one other friendly rabbit, unless advised otherwise by a vet or qualified animal behaviourist. A good combination is a neutered male and a neutered female.
Get your rabbits neutered, unless they are intended for breeding and provisions have been made to care for both parents and offspring.
Handle* your rabbits gently every day from an early age. Rabbits which live indoors can see humans as important companions. If your rabbit has to be kept on his/her own for some reason you must provide him/her with companionship by interacting with him/her every day.
Make sure your rabbit has places he/she can go to get away from companions if he/she wants to and that there are enough resources (e.g. shelter, food, water, hiding places) for all your rabbits at all times.
Introduce new rabbits gradually and under supervision, preferably in a space that is new to both rabbits. Seek advice from a qualified animal behaviourist if you are unsure or have problems.
When you are away make sure your rabbits are cared for by a responsible person.
Never leave your rabbits unsupervised with another animal or person who may (deliberately or accidentally) harm or frighten them. Never leave your rabbits unsupervised with a cat or dog, even if you know they are good friends.