Neutering older rabbit before new one: Will aggression be an issue?

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!

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!

Oh, Naughty Leo! These bunnies when they are not neutered can be really trouble. I would suggest that you just get him neutered now. He is old enough for it if both testicles have dropped and he is acting hormonal. There really is not much you can do to calm this down- try putting him away when he is being really sassy, try setting him down and walking away if he head buts you or bites you. Make sure he has lots of toys to play with or destroy.

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.

The best way to reduce aggression is to have both of them spayed. Spaying females drastically reduces aggressive behavior, as hormonal aggression is most common in female rabbits. Hormones drive them to compete for territory and to protect their home from invaders. I recommend having them spayed before bringing them together.

Thanks for using Petco Pet Education Center, formerly Petcoach! While it isn’t an issue to have a male and female bunny, I would strongly recommend staying and neutering them prior to introducing them, especially if they are old enough to reproduce.