Rabbits are social creatures; most are happiest when they have a friend, whether bunny or human!
If you're looking to adopt a bunny, why not adopt a pair that's already bonded? Not only will you be keeping soulmates together, but you'll also save two lives!
Toto and Jojo. Adopted thanks to Forever Friends Animal Rescue.
Engaging in social behaviours like grooming each other, cuddling, and playing can reduce stress and lead to a stronger bond and a happier bunny.
A bunny’s love language is quality time, so it's essential to spend time with your new fluffy friend (or friends!) every day. Providing them with attention, affection, and interactive play can help them feel more connected to you and prevent them from becoming lonely.
Like humans, every rabbit is different, and bonding can take time. But with a little patience and a loving and stable environment, your bunny can form a strong bond with you.
Hot Cross Bun, looking for love via The Rabbit Sanctuary.
Keep your bunny mentally and physically healthy by giving them plenty of environmental stimulation, such as toys, places to hide, and space to move around and explore. It’ll help prevent boredom too, which can lead to stress.
Betty, adopted thanks to Liverpool Animal Shelter.
With those adorable ears and soft fur, it’s tempting to pick up a fluffy bunny and snuggle it! But rabbits like to interact with humans on their own terms and often don’t actually enjoy being picked up and cuddled.
Save the snuggling for later, instead, make sure your bunny associates you with positive things right from the start - like treats! Find out what their favourite snack is, and give it to them only when they interact with you. Hop-tip: most buns love a good head rub, and it’s a great way to interact with them until they’re more comfortable.
Here are some signs that your bunny has bonded with you.
They come to you for attention or follow you around:
If your bun actively seeks out your company - approaches you for pets, cuddles, or just to hang out, it's a good sign that they trust and enjoy being around you.
If your bunny follows you from room to room or hops after you, it's a sign that they enjoy your company and feel safe with you.
They show affection:
Rabbits often show affection by grooming (licking), nuzzling, chinning (rubbing their chin on you), or sniffing. They may also give kisses by gently nibbling on your fingers or clothes.
If your bun nudges you with their nose, it can be a sign that they want attention - maybe it’s a head rub, or they want to play! Try returning the love with a head rub or an ear scratch - if they’re enjoying it, you might hear them purr!
They're happy to chill:
When a bunny is comfortable with you, they’ll do a ‘happy flop’ - flop down on their side and relax, or they’ll lay flat on their belly with their legs outstretched. A bunny that’s comfortable with you will be calm and won't become easily frightened or agitated when you're around.
Andrena and Cassata, looking for love via The Rabbit Sanctuary.
Bunnies are wonderful pets and great communicators. Take the time to learn what your bunny is trying to tell you and provide them with love, attention, and a healthy environment. This will help form a strong bond and ensure that your fluffy friend is happy and content.
Ready for some bunny love? Hop to it! Meet some bunnies looking for love.
Main image: Kana, looking for love via The Rabbit Sanctuary.