Further Bonding Question

Over the weekend, I have continued to bond Sadie to my bereaved bunny Jamie using the slow method.

They are really good side by side, lying, eating and sniffing.

In the bathroom, they have had up to 4 hour sessions which have varied depending on Jamie's mood. One session was completely calm, flopping out, eating, grooming themselves mostly and resting - the other at the same time of day - Jamie was lunging and nipping when Sadie was in close proximity but did still flop and groom and eat.
Sadie is not frightened, does not retaliate and seems to have the measure of Jamie, relaxing when he is more relaxed and knowing when to keep some distance.


My question is - when does the small bonding pen/neutral area become non-neutral. When to increase the size of the bonding pen? Jamie does not do many droppings in the pen - so can this be a source of stress in itself?

Angelinabun

Hi

I think I would increase the length of time with the pen smaller -and making sure they can spend long periods of time together before increasing the size. As soon as size is increased it gives them more space to claim territory. It sounds like it is all going really well so far though!

Thanks for your kind reply

I wouldnt increase the pen for about 3 to 4 days usually, when you do increase it do it in the morning so you have a day to witness behaviour before leaving them at night. it sounds positive x

As the others have said I wouldn't increase the size until they are managing to spend several consecutive 24hr periods together.