AboutDana Krempels, Ph.D. Expertise I can answer just about any question regarding rabbit BIOLOGY and HEALTH from the commonplace (e.g. "runny stool"; dental problems) to the unusual. I can also help you with the most recent information on general rabbit care, as recommended by the nation`s top rabbit veterinarians and other experts.
For the best information on rabbit care anywhere on the internet, be sure to visit www.rabbit.org and consider joining EtherBun, a free listserve about rabbit health, care, and behavior. For more information on EtherBun, visit www.bio.miami.edu/hare/etherbun.html
Experience I have lived with companion rabbits for over 30 years, and have been a rabbit rescuer for the last 13. (Our first rescue, Maggie, just celebrated her 13th birthday!) I can answer just about any question concerning rabbit biology, health, care, and behavior.
I have a Ph.D. in biology (expertise in evolutionary biology, genetics, ecology, botany, and herpetology), and have worked extensively with veterinarians who are on the cutting edge of rabbit medicine.
I own EtherBun (EtherBun@yahoogroups.com), the largest free listserve devoted to companion rabbit health, care and behavior.
Since 1998, I have answered rabbit health and care questions from all over the world via the House Rabbit Society web site (www.rabbit.org), and if I cannot answer your question, I can certainly refer you to someone who can.
Organizations belong to House Rabbit Society
Publications Exotic DVM
Warren Peace (Journal of the House Rabbit Society of Miami)
Various newsletters of the House Rabbit Society, nationwide
Education/Credentials Ph.D - Biology
B.S. - Biology
B.A. - English
Awards and Honors Lightspan Academic Excellence Award for web site on rabbit health and biology
(http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare)
I just wanted to know how long it takes for one bunny to bond with another?
Recently we got a grey Netherland Dwarf and a few days later bought another
caramel-colored one. The first one had pinkeye and so we exchanged it for
another which died of diarrhea (was gasping, twitching, and such before it
died-- not sure what it died of-- perhaps an abrupt diet change). The bunnies
had been playing with each other for three days. I don't wish for our first
bunny to get depressed, so was just wondering when it might be appropriate
to introduce another playmate for it.
I am in China right now and the healthcare for animals is virtually
nonexistent-- I have been feeding it greens mixed with carrots and apples on
a daily basis, do you recommend anything else (that isn't hay or pellets, since
those are not easily accessible here?)
Thanks so much for your help!
Best,
Crystal
Answer Dear Crystal,
Start by introducing the bunnies in a neutral territory, and then use the bonding tips here to make sure everything goes smoothly:
As for diet, you can read my recommendations here:
www.bio.miami.edu/hare/diet.html
If you can't get hay, then grass from a clean, known source that's parasite and pesticide free would be a good substitute. A tablespoon or two of whole oats per day--once they are adults, and spread out throughout the day--can be used to supplement for calories, if necessary. Avoid too much sugar and starch, which means using carrots and apples only in small quantities.
