How can I calm my new bunny and get him eating normally after bonding?

[ConnieRivera]

We recently rehomed a new bunny. He’s been in his original pen he came with but we bring him outside and let him roam a big run outside.

He was very happy and eating great when we brought him home. We introduced him to our other bunny and are hoping they bond. We’ve been doing it slowly. Yesterday they spent some time together (no fighting) and since then he’s not eating like normal. Rabbits Forum in DB-UK Community

What do I need to do calm him and make sure he starts eating again?

 

[bunny momma]

Is he on the same food as before you got him? Any food changes must be gradual.
A bunny who is not eating can quickly go into gi stasis which is an emergency requiring vet care. Is he still pooping? If you are in UK was he vaccinated?

 

[Shimmer]

I would initially try feeding him separately, just to see if it's an issue with access (he may be being blocked by the other rabbit) or something else. If he eats ok on his own, then keep an eye on him, and maybe scatter feed pellets & greens, or put up a couple of additional feeding points. Don't forget that hay / grass should be the main part of their diet, so there should be plenty available at all times. I would look at providing an extra water bowl in a different area as well, just in case he's being blocked from that as well.

If he isn't eating when he has the opportunity to without being bothered by his companion, then I would get him checked over by a vet today. He could be going into gut stasis, which is serious and requires treatment.

Keeping an eye on poo output is a useful way of determining if they are eating normally. Any change needs investigating. Smaller, harder, irregular shaped, fewer in quantity, or with mucus needs a vet check up as it means there is reduced food input / reduced gut mobility.

 

[ConnieRivera]

Thanks all..
great help ♥