Bond or to not bond

[Herby]

Hi all,

This is my first time posting on here and sadly for help with my grieving male left behind. We had bonded two male lionheads. On Monday my two year old and first bunny Truman passed away. I think Herby new he was sick (the grieving bunny) because although he is sad he keeps licking all of trumans favorite spots and their shared hedgehog and has a decreased appetite and water intake. We are monitoring all of that to ensure Herby’s health. The death was from a cancer or stone he had in his bladder or kidney ultimately that went unnoticed by me and it was unexpected. I am wondering about bringing another bunny into the picture and if it should be another male because that was his last bonded partner. Herby is 1 and I’m not sure if he would welcome a new friend or be more angry about the loss of Truman. Herby did not get to see the body and at first he went through waves of denial but I believe he has fully accepted the death and onto the depression stage of grief. he has spurts of playfulness but mostly has been laying around or hiding. He has been sleeping on my head at night which is something new and accepts to be groomed but will turn towards the wall occasionally to let us know he is angry. Just looking for any advice on this especially from someone who has experienced this between two male bunnies because idk if there is a difference in rebonding or not. Herby is neutered and fully vaccinated. Thank you in advance

[LongEaredLions]

Sorry no one answered this earlier!
I am so sorry for your loss.
Most importantly, do not get another bunny until you are ready. That may be today or in several years, but Herby will be alright until that day comes. When you do decide to get another bunny, sex doesn’t really matter. I would always advise taking your bunny into a shelter if they allow “speed dating,” so that he can pick out his own friend. It shouldn’t be too different than normal bonding, atleast from my experience.

[Author]

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