How to calm my aggressive unneutered rabbit before neutering?

Hello. I would definitely consider neutering Bun Bun in case this is testosterone/sexually based aggression. If so, his attitude should improve over the next 4 weeks. This could also be aggression based on resource protection. Some rabbits become a bit aggressive when an owner is changing food or even putting out fresh hay or treats. A rabbit can perceive this as a threat to his "stash". But the easiest thing to do is neuter him, & of course, never reinforce his aggressive behavior ( some people will see this as cute & funny & inadvertently cheer the behavior on ). Good luck & thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi there and thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! Usually aggression in our pets can be altered a bit by removing excess testosterone with neutering. While it is not impossible he is lonely-likely he is frustrated with the removal of his mates each time. Neutering may help with his need for female attention as well as curbing unwanted aggression due to excess testosterone. I hope this helps!

Hello. You will want to neuter the older rabbit first, & try to have this done several weeks before introducing the new bunny. After several weeks, all the testosterone will be out of Thumper's system & other than taking some time & care to let them get to know each other, there should be no sexual aggression on Thumper's part. Then have the younger rabbit neutered as soon as your veterinarian recommends. Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach.

Hi Kian! You have some great questions. Even when keeping just one rabbit, I don't recommend leaving a buck unneutered. When male rabbits become sexually mature, they can act aggressively. The hormones can trigger territorial and dominance aggression. The most common signs of sexual maturity in a male include circling you, mounting you, or trying to bite you. Unneutered males can also frequently spray urine. I do urge you to have Fluffy neutered before four months of age. I hope this helps!

Thanks for reaching out about Mr. Magoo. It is unusual for rabbits who are castrated to become aggressive after living together for some time. Environmental stresses can shift hierarchies and start aggressions. Adrenal tumors can produce testosterone and lead to aggression. Not all rabbits get along, forever and they might have to be separated. An examination with a veterinarian with experience in rabbit could probably help you. Good luck.

It may be marking behavior considering he is intact. It could also be stress/excitement or simply being held too long and he has to relieve himself. Consider having him examined by your veterinarian or a vet experienced in treating rabbits to rule out medical causes. You can discuss neutering during the appointment. In the meantime, when holding him, place a towel on your lap and make sure he has ample opportunity to use the litterbox. Watch for a raised or twitching tail which usually indicates he is about to urinate or defecate.

It may be due to him being intact. Neutering may help, but will not be a quick "off button". It will take several weeks for testosterone levels to decrease. When you see him mounting, immediately correct him. Be consistent and be firm.If he persists, move him to another room until he settles down.