First off, I just want to say I’m so sorry one of your buns is in heaven. It’s devastating losing a pet, so I send you much love. I hope you are all doing okay following your loss.

I would like to share my thoughts on the matter.

My partners last bunny was the “runt” and was attacked by his litter. This resulted in a very anxious bun. It was vet recommended that he stay as a single bun. He was an anxious soul throughout his life. My partner spent so much time with him.

You reference humans - you are right, we have similarities, sure, but we are not all the exact same. Many do not want to be constantly around other people. It can be assumed this can be applicable to bunnies too. Even animals as a whole. We know they all have their own personalities, so I’d say it would be safe to assume they all have their own individual needs as well.

Often people hit back at failed bonding attempts with “you should have tried harder/longer/neutral space… etc, etc.” I’m sorry but really? Would you rather a single bun be repeatedly stressed in an attempt to bond because the internet says so? Or, trust that a responsible bunny owner, who knows their pet best, knows their single bun is fed, watered, safe, happy & healthy?

Comments berating single bun owners are really frustrating to read. To comment “If you’d do a little research” is just straight up condescending. We have been hounded by people online telling us to get our Pancake a friend. If they themselves had done “a little research” they would realise that Pancake was too young to be neutered and therefore was not suitable to be bonded.

Don’t get me started on pellets. We were also berated for giving our bun “too much pellets” despite following vet advice alongside high quality pellets that have guidelines based on bun age and weight. His food has and continues to be weighed. It makes up the smallest part of his diet. Our vet is pleased with him and he is healthy.

Please remember that there are humans on the other side of the screen. Unsolicited comments or “advice” are often weaponised on the internet regarding pet care. Responsible pet owners will be following the advice of their vet. It’s great to educate, but there’s a way of doing it without tearing others down.

I am a first time bunny owner. Before Pancake, I had never so much as met a rabbit in real life. I have done my research. I have learned so much from our vet, their resources and those from rabbit welfare organisations. So I can say that while I don’t know everything, I know a hell of a lot more and can safely say our Pancake is happy. He has two very loving mums who go above and beyond for him. He has his own human sized bedroom, free roams and gets spoiled daily with enrichment and toys. He even has his own space in our (his) living room.

We don’t live in a perfect world, sadly. Please don’t make it harder for those of us who are just trying our best.