Seeing that I have lost a couple of senior rabbits myself these last two weeks, I thought I should take the time to post what I tell people that call me asking what to do when their rabbit has lost a partner.
To me, the most important thing is to introduce another rabbit. People often put human emotions on rabbits, but rabbits do not think like humans. Yes, they do and will miss their rabbit partner, and they can go down hill, sometimes even die.
People need time to morn, but I don’t believe rabbits do. I suggest waiting a few days, possibly up to a week (if you absolutely need that time for yourself) but keeping your rabbits needs in mind the sooner a new friend comes along the better! I suggest waiting a couple of days, but after that go to a rescue for some rabbit dates and adopt a rabbit.
In my opinion, just having another rabbit living next to your rabbit to start the bonding stops your rabbit from feeling sad. Instead they are wondering “Hmmm who is this new rabbit”? Thinking and seeing the new rabbit totally changes their train of thought about the loss of their partner. Unlike humans that grieve for months, sometimes years before moving on, rabbits are ready to move on after a couple of days.
Also, rabbits bonding after one has had a loss tends to go a lot quicker and easier. I really believe the new rabbit can sense the loss the other rabbit has, which is possibly what makes the bonding easier. It will help you too to see your rabbit interested in the new rabbit, and once bonded laying together, grooming each other and having a happy life.
Hope this helps anyone going through this. 🫶 And yes this is a sad time for us, but we have to carry on for our buns. Stay tuned to see who Clair Bears upcoming dates will be. 💞
