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Can an adult outdoor rabbit be happy living indoors?

2 replies

soundedbetterinmyhead · 09/12/2013 18:06

My 6ish year old neutered male has just lost his lovely girlfriend. She has died suddenly - we have had her 3 years, but I don't know how old she was when we got her as she was a rescue.

The thing is, she was his second partner and it was only her extraordinary laidbackness which enabled them to bond after his first mate dying. I am loathe to try to bond another female with him, but I don't want him to be lonely either. We had a disastrous attempt before getting her and it was very stressful for him (and us!). Also, I am not sure I want to continue with a rabbit relay as each one dies.

One option might be for him to come inside and be a house rabbit. He could have a tunnel and run outside, with maybe a catflap or something so he could come in if he wanted company. We are all out in the week at work or school, but he could have a cuddle in the evenings if he wanted.

I've only ever had outside rabbits and I would want the best for him as he is lovely. At present he only ever comes inside for a night or two in bad snow and doesn't like it at all.

What do you reckon? Any ideas very welcome. Thanks!

OP posts:
bundaberg · 09/12/2013 18:14

if he doesn't like coming in then no, i wouldn't do it. i know rabbits prefer being in pairs, but like you say you do then end up having a kind of relay with them as each one dies.

i'd probably leave him outside but make sure you go an play with him lots

FernieB · 10/12/2013 17:34

He's clearly happy outdoors so I'd leave him there. Go and play with him more or bring him in for cuddles or a run round the kitchen at breakfast.

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