Living Together: Navigating Pregnancy When Two Female Rabbits Share a Space
It is generally not recommended to keep two female rabbits together if one is pregnant. Doing so can lead to stress, fighting, and potentially even harm to the pregnant rabbit or her kits.
Understanding Rabbit Social Dynamics
Rabbits, while often seen as cuddly and docile, have complex social structures. In the wild, rabbits live in warrens, but these warrens are typically comprised of distinct family groups with established hierarchies. Introducing a pregnant female into an already established doe’s (female rabbit’s) territory can be problematic. Pregnancy hormones further complicate the situation, often leading to increased territorial aggression. Even bonded does can experience conflict during this sensitive time.
The Risks of Housing Pregnant and Non-Pregnant Does Together
Housing two female rabbits together when one is pregnant presents several significant risks:
- Stress: The non-pregnant doe may stress the pregnant doe through chasing, mounting (attempting to mate), or simply through her presence. Stress can lead to complications during pregnancy and after birth.
- Fighting: Territorial disputes can escalate into serious fights, resulting in injuries to either doe. The pregnant doe is especially vulnerable.
- False Pregnancies: Stress can induce false pregnancies in the non-pregnant doe. A false pregnancy is when a doe exhibits all the signs of pregnancy without actually being pregnant.
- Nest Raiding: The non-pregnant doe may raid the pregnant doe’s nest, potentially harming or killing the newborn kits.
- Lack of Resources: The pregnant doe needs adequate space, food, and water to support her pregnancy and lactation. Competition with another doe can jeopardize this.
Separate Housing: The Recommended Approach
The best course of action when a doe becomes pregnant is to provide her with a separate, safe, and quiet environment. This should be done well before the kits are born, ideally at least a week or two before her due date.
Consider the following when setting up a separate space:
- Size: The enclosure should be large enough for the doe to comfortably move around, stretch out, and build a nest.
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean environment to prevent infections.
- Quiet: The space should be away from loud noises and high-traffic areas.
- Nesting Materials: Provide ample nesting materials, such as hay, straw, or shredded paper.
- Secure Hiding Spot: Offer a cardboard box or similar structure for the doe to feel secure.
- Food and Water: Ensure constant access to fresh food and water.
Introduction After Weaning
Once the kits are weaned (around 6-8 weeks of age), you can attempt to reintroduce the does. However, this process should be done gradually and carefully. Supervise their interactions closely, and be prepared to separate them again if fighting occurs. The success of reintroduction depends heavily on the does’ individual personalities and previous bond.
Alternative Housing Strategies
If separate housing is absolutely not an option (although highly discouraged), consider these carefully monitored alternatives:
- Maximize Space: Ensure the enclosure is extremely large, allowing each doe to have her own territory.
- Multiple Resources: Provide multiple food bowls, water bottles, and hiding spots to minimize competition.
- Constant Supervision: Monitor their interactions closely for any signs of aggression.
- Barrier: Even in a large enclosure, using a wire barrier to create two separate areas within the same space can reduce conflict but is still a sub-optimal solution.
Can two female rabbits live together if one is pregnant? – Summary Table
| Factor | Risk Level | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|
| —————– | ————- | —————————————– |
| Stress | High | Separate housing |
| Fighting | High | Separate housing; careful supervision |
| Nest Raiding | High | Separate housing |
| Resource Competition | Medium | Separate housing; multiple resources |
| False Pregnancy | Medium | Separate housing |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the signs of pregnancy in rabbits?
Rabbit pregnancies are relatively short, lasting approximately 31 days. Signs of pregnancy can include weight gain, increased appetite, nest-building behavior (pulling out fur from their dewlap and belly to line the nest), and changes in personality (becoming more aggressive or withdrawn). However, these signs can also be indicative of a false pregnancy, making diagnosis challenging without veterinary confirmation.
How long should I keep the pregnant rabbit separated from the other rabbit?
Ideally, the pregnant rabbit should remain separated from the other rabbit throughout the entire pregnancy and until the kits are fully weaned (approximately 6-8 weeks after birth). This ensures the safety of both the mother and her kits. Gradual reintroduction can be attempted after weaning.
What can I do to reduce stress for the pregnant rabbit?
Minimize handling the pregnant rabbit, especially during the last week of gestation. Provide a quiet, stress-free environment with plenty of fresh food, water, and nesting material. Avoid sudden loud noises or changes in routine.
Can I keep the father rabbit with the mother and babies?
No. The father rabbit should be separated from the mother and kits to prevent him from accidentally harming or killing the babies. Male rabbits can sometimes be aggressive towards newborns. He can also impregnate the female again immediately after birth, which is detrimental to her health.
What happens if the rabbits start fighting?
If the rabbits begin to fight, separate them immediately. Do not attempt to intervene physically, as you could be injured. Use a broom or other object to create a barrier and separate the animals.
How do I introduce the rabbits after the kits are weaned?
Reintroduction should be a gradual process under close supervision. Start by allowing the rabbits to interact through a wire barrier. If there is no aggression, gradually increase the time they spend together in a neutral territory. If fighting occurs, separate them and try again later.
What if I can’t provide separate housing?
While strongly discouraged, if separate housing is impossible, ensure the enclosure is as large as possible and provide multiple resources (food, water, hiding spots). Monitor their interactions extremely closely, and be prepared to separate them at the first sign of aggression. This is a high-risk situation for both rabbits.
What kind of nesting material should I provide?
Provide a variety of nesting materials such as hay, straw, shredded paper, or soft cloth. The mother rabbit will choose what she prefers and use it to create a comfortable and safe nest.
How soon can a rabbit get pregnant after giving birth?
Rabbits can get pregnant almost immediately after giving birth. This is why it is crucial to keep the male rabbit separated to prevent back-to-back pregnancies, which can severely impact the doe’s health.
What is a false pregnancy in rabbits?
A false pregnancy (pseudopregnancy) is when a doe exhibits signs of pregnancy (weight gain, nest building, fur pulling) without actually being pregnant. This can be triggered by stress or hormonal imbalances. A vet can help diagnose and manage false pregnancies.
What should I do if I think the pregnant rabbit is sick?
If you suspect your pregnant rabbit is sick, seek veterinary care immediately. Pregnant rabbits are more vulnerable to illness, and prompt treatment is essential to protect both the mother and her kits.
What is the ideal temperature for the kits after birth?
The ideal temperature for newborn kits is between 65-72 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure the nest is warm and well-insulated to prevent the kits from becoming chilled. If the mother is not providing enough warmth, you may need to supplement with a heat lamp (positioned safely away from the nest) or by wrapping a hot water bottle in a towel and placing it near the kits.