new-owner
Should I Get One or Two Rabbits? NZ Guide
5 June 2026
Rabbits are highly social and a lone rabbit is often a lonely one. Why two is usually best, the right pairings, and what it means for cost and space. NZ guide.
The quick answer: rabbits are highly social animals, and most are far happier living with another rabbit than alone — a solo rabbit can become bored, lonely and depressed even with lots of human attention. Unless you have a specific reason and can give huge amounts of daily companionship, two (a bonded, desexed pair) is usually the kinder choice.
Why rabbits need company
In the wild, rabbits live in groups; companionship is a core need, not a luxury. A bonded pair will groom each other, snuggle, play and feel secure in a way humans can't fully replace — we sleep at different times and can't "speak rabbit". Many welfare organisations recommend keeping rabbits in compatible pairs or groups.
The best pairings
- A desexed male and desexed female is often the easiest, most stable pairing.
- Same-sex pairs can work but can be trickier; desexing is still important.
- Any pairing must be properly bonded — you can't just put two strangers together. See how to introduce two rabbits in NZ.
- Rabbits and guinea pigs should not be housed together — they have different needs and a rabbit can injure a guinea pig.
What two rabbits means for you
- Cost: roughly double the food, vet care (including desexing both), and bigger housing — budget honestly before committing.
- Space: a pair needs more room than a single — bigger is always better.
- Desexing: essential for a stable bond and for health, and prevents breeding.
When one might be okay
A single rabbit can be acceptable if you genuinely provide many hours of interaction daily and enrichment — but be honest about whether you can. For most NZ households, a bonded pair is happier and not much more work day to day.
Quick takeaways
- Rabbits are highly social — most are happier in a bonded pair than alone.
- A desexed male/female pair is usually the easiest, most stable combination.
- Pairs must be properly bonded; never house rabbits with guinea pigs.
- Two means about double the cost and more space — plan for it.
- A solo rabbit needs huge daily companionship to not be lonely.
Shop related categories at PetMall
Looking for housing, hay and accessories for a pair in New Zealand? Browse the PetMall small pet range for current options and nationwide delivery.
Related reading
References
- SPCA New Zealand, rabbit welfare & companionship, checked 2026-06-05: https://www.spca.nz/advice-and-welfare/
- Companion Animals New Zealand, rabbit care, checked 2026-06-05: https://www.companionanimals.nz/
Important notice
*General welfare information for NZ owners. Discuss desexing and pairing with a rabbit-savvy NZ vet.*
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