🐾 Multi-Pet Introduction Checklist

Safely introduce your rabbit to other pets

Phase 1: Before Meeting (2-4 weeks)

Preparation is everything. Set both your rabbit and other pet up for success.

Keep pets completely separate at first Let rabbit settle in and show normal behavior first Other pet is fully vaccinated and healthy Both pets spayed or neutered (reduces aggression) Other pet knows basic commands (sit, stay, leave it) Separate food, water, litter, and sleeping areas Established a calm, quiet household environment Read your rabbit's body language confidently

Preparation notes:

Phase 2: First Meetings (Week 1)

Keep it calm, keep it short. Safety first, always.

Choose a completely neutral room Other pet on leash or behind a secure gate Rabbit has free run of the room with hiding spots Keep meetings short: 5-10 minutes max Watch body language of BOTH animals closely Reward calm, curious behavior from both Separate immediately if any signs of stress or aggression End on a positive note — before either gets too excited

Good Signs ✅

Curious sniffing

Relaxed posture

Normal breathing

Interested but calm

Warning Signs 🚨

Flattened ears

Tail flicking

Growling or hissing

Chasing or lunging

Phase 3: Building Trust (Weeks 2-4)

Slow and steady wins the race. Rushing causes setbacks.

Swap bedding or toys between pets (scent familiarization) Feed on opposite sides of the same room Supervised meetings gradually increase to 20-30 minutes Both pets remain calm and relaxed during meetings Allow rabbit to approach the other pet, not the other way Other pet remains on leash during longer sessions Both pets eating and drinking normally in each other's presence Positive reinforcement treats for calm behavior

Progress notes:

Phase 4: Full Introduction (After 4 weeks)

Ready for unsupervised time together? Almost there!

First short unsupervised session (5 min) behind a see-through barrier Both pets grooming themselves or resting near each other No resource guarding (food, toys, sleeping spots) Both pets seek out each other's company voluntarily Short, fully unsupervised time together (10-15 min) Escape routes always available (rabbits need escape paths) No chasing, lunging, or aggressive behavior Gradually increase unsupervised time as trust builds

⚠️ Never leave them alone together until fully bonded. This can take weeks or even months.

🎉 Bonded! What's next?

Shared spaces start small — expand gradually Continue separate feeding stations Maintain separate litter boxes initially Monitor interactions during high-energy times Celebrate your multi-pet household!