Can Rabbits Eat Fresh Cranberries? The 160 Top Answers

The Royal Veterinary College has released the latest results from its VetCompass programme, this time identifying the most common medical problems and causes of death in pet rabbits1.

The study analyzed data from 6,349 rabbits that visited 107 veterinary clinics across the UK.

The researchers found that the most common causes of death recorded by veterinarians were fly infestation (10.9% of pet rabbits), anorexia (4.9%), collapse (4.9%) and intestinal obstruction (4.3%). .

The average lifespan of pet rabbits was 4.3 years, although survival rates of up to 14.4 years have been recorded. Male rabbits tend to live longer, averaging 5.2 years, than females, averaging 3.7 years.

The most common medical problems are overgrown nails (16%), overgrown molars (7.6%), dirty butts (4.5%), overgrown front teeth (4.3%) and intestinal congestion (4.2%). Many of these problems are related to inappropriate housing or feeding. However, the researchers also point out that the fact that rabbits evolved as prey animals hasn’t helped owners and veterinarians. Evolution has meant that rabbits can disguise outward signs of illness, making them less likely to be attacked by predators, but this also makes it harder for owners to tell their rabbit is ill until it’s often too late.

Researchers hope this new study will help owners and veterinarians prioritize which signs of illness to monitor.

Other findings were:

Male rabbits are more likely to have overgrown claws, overgrown molars, overgrown incisors, and dental disease than females.

The average age of pet rabbits presented to veterinarians in this country is 3.2 years.

The average adult body weight of rabbits presented to a veterinarian is 2.1 kg.

dr Dan O’Neill, VetCompass Researcher and Senior Lecturer at the RVC, said: “For years, rabbits were considered the perfect pet for children: fluffy, cute, passive and requiring only minimal care and handling while being fed granola-like food in a hutch garden, where it was mostly kept singly.

“We now know that this level of care is totally unacceptable from an animal welfare perspective. This new paper can further improve the lives of rabbits by helping owners and veterinarians to recognize the common health problems faced by rabbits and therefore prioritize the most important management factors that will make our rabbits even healthier. Rabbits don’t show their suffering like other species, so it’s our duty to prevent and recognize their problems.”

dr Jo Hedley, VetCompass researcher and lecturer at RVC added: “This study definitely highlights some of the most common manifestations observed in pet rabbits. Unfortunately, due to the rabbit’s ability to mask disease, signs of a problem are often non-specific and detected far too late, so recorded causes of death are often only end-stage symptoms of an underlying disease. Many of the most important medical problems are still problems that we can address through proper husbandry , diet and health checks should be able to completely prevent . Better owner education is needed if we are to improve rabbit health and welfare for years to come.”

Relation

vet record. https://doi.org/vetrec-2019-105592 O’Neill DG, CRAVEN HC, BRODBELT DC, CHURCH DB & HEDLEY J 2019. Morbidity and Mortality of Domestic Rabbits (Oryctolagus cuniculus) under primary veterinary care in England.

PS: If you’re here, take a moment to see our latest veterinarian job openings.

Rabbits are herbivores (plant eaters) and are considered grazers because they eat continuously. They have a complex digestive system and are very efficient at processing food. They also have very specific dietary needs. If you introduce new food too quickly or feed an inappropriate choice of food, the rabbit’s normal digestive flora (normal bacteria) will be disrupted, gas and toxin producing bacteria can overgrow and the rabbit can become very ill and possibly die.

What do rabbits eat?

Rabbits should be fed primarily hay, a smaller amount of fresh vegetables, and a limited number of pellets on a daily basis. Hay is the most important part of a rabbit’s daily intake. Unlimited, high-quality grass hay, such as timothy, orchard, or brome, should make up the majority of a rabbit’s diet. Grass hay is high in fiber, which is vital to maintaining a rabbit’s healthy digestive tract. While young, growing rabbits can eat any type of grass hay, alfalfa hay is not recommended for adult rabbits as it is too high in protein and too high in calcium.

Timothy pellets may be offered at approximately 1/8-1/4 cup per 5 lbs (2.25 kg) of body weight. Overfeeding pellets to adult rabbits is a common cause of obesity and loose stools (caused by an overgrowth of abnormal bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract) because pellets are generally low in fiber and high in carbohydrates. In addition to hay, wild rabbits eat many other fresh plants.

A pet rabbit’s diet should be supplemented with a variety of green leafy vegetables each day. Rabbits can eat as many vegetables as they want each day, as long as they don’t get diarrhea and as long as the vegetables aren’t as high in carbohydrates as carrots and potatoes. Variety is important. Introduce new vegetables slowly and in small amounts, watching for loose stools, diarrhea, or signs of gas.

“Carrots should be fed sparingly as they are very high in carbohydrates and can disrupt GI bacterial flora.”

Especially good veggies are dark leafy greens like romaine lettuce, bok choy, mustard greens, carrot tops, cilantro, watercress, basil, turnip greens, beet greens, broccoli greens, and cilantro.

Some leafy greens, such as collards and dandelions, parsley, kale, Swiss chard, and escarole, should be fed in limited amounts because they are high in calcium and if fed in excess can contribute to the formation of calcium-based bladder stones. Other acceptable vegetables include broccoli, green peppers, Brussels sprouts, endive, wheatgrass, radicchio, and squash. Iceberg lettuce or lettuce should not be fed as it is mostly water and low in nutrients.

Carrots should be fed sparingly as they are very high in carbohydrates and can disrupt GI bacterial flora. A small amount of many different vegetables is much better than a large amount of one food.

Young rabbits less than 7-8 months old should be fed a choice of alfalfa pellets and alfalfa hay; They need the extra protein and calcium as they grow. You can also have a variety of vegetables. At around 7 months they will need to be switched to an adult diet as described above as their growth slows.

How often should I feed my rabbit?

Rabbits should be fed and given fresh water daily; Hay should always be available. As a nibbler, they should have food available at all times.

Do I need to give my rabbit vitamins?

No, rabbits do not need any additional vitamins. All you need is a varied, high-fiber diet.

Can I offer treats to my rabbit?

Yes, but first check with your veterinarian about the types of treats that are recommended. Rabbits can certainly become overweight if fed an abundance of high-calorie treats. Biscuits, nuts, seeds, grains and bread should not be fed to rabbits.

“Cookies, nuts, seeds, grains and bread should not be fed to rabbits.”

Fruit can be fed in very limited amounts – no more than 1-2 tablespoons of high-fiber fresh fruit (like apple, pear, or berries) every 1-2 days. The high sugar content in fruits (and even carrots) can disrupt the normal bacteria in the gastrointestinal tract when given in excess.

How much water do rabbits need?

Fresh water should be available 24 hours a day. Some rabbits prefer water bowls and others prefer drinking bottles. If you offer water in a drinking bottle, be sure to check for clogs and fill with clean water daily. If you offer your rabbit water in a bowl, make sure the rabbit doesn’t spill it in their cage or mess it up with feces.

Is there anything else I should know?

Rabbits need to chew to keep their continuously growing teeth healthy. Chew toys should always be available; Hard wooden chew toys (blocks and sticks) and cardboard are best.

“Rabbits engage in coprophagy, which means they eat their own feces.”

Rabbits engage in coprophagy, which means they eat their own feces. This happens at night, and these fecal pellets are different from those normally passed and seen by owners. They are called cecotropes, cecal feces, nocturnal feces, or night feces. They are usually small, soft or pasty, darker in color, and have a strong fermented or sweet odor. These pellets serve as a rich source of nutrients for the rabbit, particularly protein and vitamins B and K. Most owners never observe this behavior as it occurs in the early hours of the morning. In this case, remember that this is normal and necessary for your rabbit’s health.

Find out why peanut butter is unsafe for rabbits. A complete breakdown of all the problems of feeding peanut butter to your rabbit.

Peanut butter sandwiches, peanut butter and jelly (if you’re American), peanut butter and bananas. Many of us love it, smooth or crunchy, and like to spread it on toast or pair it with other foods. But can rabbits eat peanut butter? Should you panic if they do? find out more

Is Peanut Butter Safe for Rabbits?

You should not feed peanut butter to rabbits. While peanut butter is not toxic to rabbits, it is completely unsuitable as food for rabbits’ complex and delicate digestive systems. Peanut butter is extremely high in fats. Eating too much peanut butter can cause stomach problems, including gastrointestinal stasis in rabbits that require a low-fat, high-fiber, hay-based diet.

Why Peanut Butter Is Bad For Rabbits – Nutrient Breakdown

Peanut butter might be a tasty topping for humans, but it’s bad food for bunnies. This table shows that peanut butter does not provide the nutrients rabbits need and also provides too many nutrients that rabbits do not need and are bad for them.

Ingredients Peanut butter per 100 g Rabbit’s daily nutritional requirement per 100 g of feed Remarks Energy 598 kcal Peanut butter is high in calories. Just like humans, rabbits need to watch their weight. High-energy foods like these don’t help. Protein 22.2g 12-17g Peanut butter is high in protein. You might think this is a good thing, but the higher concentration of protein in the rabbit gut could cause problems and upset the balance of bacteria in the rabbit gut system. Fat 51.4g 2.5-5g Peanut butter is far too high in fat for rabbits. This can cause short-term problems with the intestines and longer-term problems if rabbits become overweight. This is a major concern for peanut butter as part of the diet. Fiber 5g 14-25g Rabbits need plenty of fiber in their diet to help food move through their digestive system. Without fiber, everything clogs and causes problems. Peanut butter doesn’t provide a lot of fiber. Carbohydrates 22.3 g < 20 g Rabbits require a relatively low carbohydrate diet. Peanut butter is high in carbohydrates (including sugar). Calcium 49 mg 500 mg It does not contain too much calcium. Rabbits need a low-calcium diet as they tend to develop extremely painful kidney stones. Sodium 426 mg 100 mg peanut butter contains far too much sodium for rabbits (because of the salt). Just as too much salt is bad for us, too much salt is not good for rabbits. Iron 1.74 mg 30-400 mg Peanut butter provides little of the iron that rabbits need in their diet. Phosphorus 335mg 400mg Peanut Butter provides an adequate amount of phosphorus for a healthy rabbit diet. Potassium 558 mg 6,000 mg peanut butter may contribute some to rabbits' daily potassium needs. Vitamin A None 1,000-1,200 IU It does not provide the vitamin A that rabbits need. Vitamin C None None Rabbits do not need any (their bodies make vitamin C). Vitamin E 9.1mg 5-16mg Peanut Butter provides an adequate amount of vitamin E for rabbits. Vitamin D without 80-100 IU of peanut butter does not provide the vitamin D that rabbits need. Vitamin B Complex 78 mg No rabbits don't need a vitamin B complex. Their bodies do whatever they need to. Zinc 2.51 mg 5-15 mg peanut butter is fine in terms of the amount of zinc. Selenium 0.004mg 0.005-0.032mg Peanut Butter provides an adequate amount of selenium that rabbits need. Peanut Butter Nutrition by USDA As the table shows, peanut butter is far too high in fat (over 50% of peanut butter is fat). Rabbits are designed to thrive on grass and other plants that are high in fiber and very low in fat. Wild rabbits rarely eat anything this greasy, so their digestive systems aren't designed to handle high levels of fat. When rabbits have too much peanut butter, their digestive systems have to deal with a lot more fat than it's designed for. Part of the digestive system is the cecum. This part digests the fiber. When there is too much fat in the appendix, it encourages the growth of unhealthy bacteria. This in turn causes problems with bloating and diarrhea. While indigestion is just uncomfortable for us, it's dangerous for rabbits. Rabbits' digestive systems need to keep food moving, and large amounts of fiber are essential for this. If a rabbit develops stomach problems, it can lead to GI (gastrointestinal) stasis. The rabbit may become constipated and stop eating. If you suspect your rabbit has GI stasis, seek medical attention immediately as it can be fatal to rabbits. Another problem with peanut butter is its high calorie content. Each small serving packs a pretty big boost of energy. Eating such high-calorie foods on a regular basis can easily make your rabbit overweight. This, in turn, can cause other health problems for your rabbit. And most peanut butter is high in salt, too. Too much salt is also bad for rabbits. Peanut butter is not toxic to rabbits. It's non-toxic. But it's unhealthy and best avoided as a snack. Can you add peanut butter to other rabbit foods? You should not add peanut butter to other rabbit foods. While peanut butter isn't toxic, you're just adding unhealthy fats to a food. You may also be conditioning your rabbit to become accustomed to foods that are high in fat and salt. What are alternatives to peanut butter as a rabbit treat? The best treat for bunnies is small, chopped pieces of fruit, such as bananas. For a list of fruits that you can safely feed rabbits, see our article here (including proper portion size and debunking some myths you'll find scattered around the internet). Help! My rabbit ate some peanut butter - what should I do? If your rabbit has nibbled a little peanut butter, there is no need to panic. It's the equivalent of a really unhealthy snack. It hasn't done them any good, but it's unlikely to have done them any harm. If you're concerned, monitor your rabbit for the next 24 hours to make sure he's exercising, eating, drinking water, and pooping as usual. If you have any doubts or concerns about your rabbit's health, contact a veterinarian immediately. What diet should rabbits have? The best diet for rabbits is plenty of hay (preferably timothy) with plenty of fresh water. Rabbits don't really need anything else. You cannot overfeed rabbits with hay. It provides the nutrients they need in the right balance and helps keep both their intestines and teeth in top condition. However, you can feed rabbits about an egg cup full of rabbit nuggets each day and a handful of fresh vegetables each day. And you can also give your rabbits a small treat every day, such as a piece of fruit. Conclusion Peanut butter is not good food for rabbits and you should not feed peanut butter to rabbits. It is too rich in fats and salts. Too much peanut butter can upset rabbits' delicate digestive systems and lead to serious intestinal problems. Check out these other posts Learn more about rabbit nutrition here. This post takes a closer look at the digestive system of rabbits. Fruit is a better snack than peanut butter. Check what fruit and how much you can give your rabbit. Herbs are a great addition to your rabbit's diet - check here which herbs are safe for rabbits.

Rabbit owners are always on the lookout for treats that will make their bunny happy. As such, you may be curious if raisins can brighten up your rabbit’s day and diet. After all, these dried grapes are bite-sized and packed with nutrients. However, what’s healthy for humans can be toxic to rabbits, so it’s worth checking first.

Raisins are safe for bunnies to eat. They’re packed with nutrients and minerals that may even give your rabbit a health boost. Due to their high sugar content, however, raisins should only be fed sparingly. Overfeeding these treats can lead to serious health problems. Two whole raisins twice a week should be a safe amount for your rabbit.

When feeding your bunny raisins, be sure to prepare them properly. Any pesticides should be washed off, and you should check to see if your raisin is seedless. Young rabbits should not be fed raisins. Their developing intestines can experience more side effects than adult rabbits.

Are Raisins Toxic to Rabbits?

There is nothing in raisins that is toxic to rabbits. There are no harmful chemicals or components in this natural treat. You can safely feed the dried grapes to your adult rabbit in almost any form.

However, raisins are not the healthiest food for your rabbit. If you decide to include them in your diet, be sure to do so in small amounts. As a treat, they can be a great addition. As a meal, raisins can be harmful.

Are Raisins Good for Rabbits?

Raisins are safe to feed to your rabbit. However, they are also not “good” for rabbits. This is mainly due to their high sugar content.

However, when administered in small amounts, it should not overwhelm the benefits of these dried grapes. In fact, even a few raisins can give your rabbit’s health a boost every now and then.

Few calories

Raisins are very low in calories, which makes them ideal for feeding rabbits. On average, a raisin contains only 2 calories. Since rabbits need a lot of calories to function healthily, this won’t even affect their necessary daily intake.

That may sound like bad news. On the contrary, it means the raisins won’t upset your rabbit’s otherwise healthy diet. Your rabbit can enjoy the health benefits of raisins while leaving room for their regular hay, grass or pellets.

High in fiber

Raisins are high in fiber. As such, they are not only tasty but also helpful for a rabbit’s digestion.

A lack of fiber can leave rabbits prone to gastrointestinal problems that can be fatal. When your rabbit needs a digestive boost, raisins can serve as both comfort food and a healthy dose of fiber.

High in antioxidants

Antioxidants are a substance that can protect against a variety of diseases. These include heart disease, cancer, stroke, immune deficiency and even respiratory diseases. Raisins are a great source of antioxidants that keep your rabbit safe and healthy.

Source of important minerals

Raisins are full of important minerals – especially calcium. Calcium is an important component in strengthening bones. As animals with a delicate bone structure, calcium is essential for rabbits.

Calcium is also very important for eye health. Rabbits have surprisingly good vision. By including a few raisin treats in your rabbit’s diet, you can help maintain their visual advantage.

In addition to calcium, raisins also contain a lot of magnesium. This mineral is important for keeping the cardiovascular system healthy. This keeps your rabbit’s heart, veins and arteries in top condition. If a rabbit lacks magnesium, their cardiovascular system can suffer.

This is supported by the Journal of Nutrition Research. The researchers gave a group of New Zealand white rabbits an insufficient amount of magnesium for 8 weeks. When magnesium levels were increased, the symptoms of atherosclerotic plaque subsided.

Raisins are also high in potassium, which helps keep muscles healthy and strong. A lack of potassium can even lead to death, according to a study published in the Journal of Nutrition. Results showed that potassium deficiency caused muscular dystrophy, or weakened muscles, at a severe and rapidly progressive rate. This resulted in death after 4 to 6 weeks.

Are Raisins Bad For Rabbits?

Raisins are safe and healthy treats for rabbits. However, that doesn’t mean you should feed your rabbit as much as they want. There are still a few downsides to these dried fruits that you should be aware of.

Raisins are high in sugar

Food high in sugar is unhealthy for rabbits. In fact, rabbits in the wild avoid high-sugar foods because they can destabilize their gut flora. This can lead to discomfort, disability, other health problems, or possibly death if left untreated. While raisins have many benefits, that doesn’t eliminate their high sugar content.

Even in small amounts, the sugar is too small to harm your rabbit. Just make sure you ration your intake carefully. If you want to be extra careful, all of the raisin benefits can be found in other parts of the rabbit diet as well. Minerals such as potassium and magnesium are also contained in high-quality rabbit pellets.

Not a good source of fiber

Raisins have a decent amount of fiber. However, due to their high sugar content, they are bad to eat in large quantities. If you’re trying to increase your rabbit’s fiber intake with raisins, you’re probably giving them too much sugar.

Because rabbits are herbivores, they need plenty of fiber in their diet. However, these should primarily be found through hay, grass and leafy greens. All other foods, such as vegetables and fruits, should only be given as a reward. This will ensure your rabbit has a healthy stomach.

Easy to overfeed

In addition to their high sugar content, raisins are easy to overfeed. Because they’re so small, it’s easy to lose track of how much your rabbit has eaten.

It’s also easy for owners to feel like they’re not adequately rewarding their bun with only four raisins a week. In fact, it can even feel like a tease, which could encourage you to give the rabbit more and unbalance their diet.

Just remember that if you overfeed your rabbit, raisins can wreak havoc on their digestive system.

Do rabbits like to eat raisins?

Because of their high sugar content, your rabbit will likely enjoy eating raisins. Once you’ve introduced this dried treat, your rabbit will likely be craving and begging for more.

On the other hand, not all rabbits have the same preferences. Rabbits are picky eaters by default. If one of your bunnies likes raisins and another might not. If your rabbit doesn’t like raisins, don’t worry. There are many other treats that can be used to train and enrich your rabbit’s life.

Are Yoghurt Coated Raisins Good For Rabbits?

If raisins are safe for rabbits, you might be wondering if yogurt-covered raisins are also healthy for your bun. Unfortunately this is not true. Adding yogurt to raisins just makes the treat less healthy, not healthier.

That’s because rabbits are herbivores. The consumption of animal products such as yoghurt can disturb the sensitive intestinal flora. A rabbit’s digestive system just isn’t equipped to handle these fats and proteins.

This is supported by a study published in the International Archives of Allergy and Applied Immunology. Rabbits fed cow’s milk developed rheumatoid lesions. In addition, dairy products are a common cause of GI stasis, a serious type of gut problem in rabbits.

You may have noticed yogurt candies in pet stores that are touted as safe for rabbits. This is mainly a special treatment. Because yogurt is packed with its own culture of bacteria, rabbits with digestive issues may, on rare occasions, benefit from consuming yogurt. However, the yogurt should be diluted and given in small amounts. This should only be done under your supervision and after consulting your veterinarian.

If this unique situation doesn’t apply to your rabbit, you shouldn’t feed them yogurt. Therefore, raisins coated in yogurt are dangerous for rabbits.

Pick raisins for your rabbits

So, are raisins enough for your bunny? Technically, yes, rabbits can eat all raisins. However, these tips will help ensure that your rabbit has only good experiences:

Stick to brands that are low in sugar

Many brands of raisins have added sugar. This is said to make the dried fruit more attractive to humans. However, raisins are already very sweet, so added sugar makes them less safe for your bun.

Keep in mind that organic brands probably contain the least amount of sugar. Pet stores also sell low-sugar rabbit-safe raisins, but they’re likely to charge a higher price.

Check the portion sizes

When buying a packet of raisins, pay attention to the nutritional information. These should be measured based on serving per container. Remember that a container can hold more than one serving.

Some brands hide their total sugar content by offering unusual serving sizes. Be careful or you could accidentally give your rabbit a big help due to bad calculation.

Buy only a small pack

Since your rabbit only needs a few raisins a week, you don’t need to have a large pack on hand. Instead, it’s best to stick to smaller bags to feed your rabbit. This also reduces the chance of overfeeding your rabbit.

Introducing raisins to your rabbit

Encouraging your rabbit to eat raisins may not be easy. Rabbits are picky eaters and often wrinkle their noses at new food. Therefore, any changes or additions to the rabbit’s diet should be done properly and carefully. What’s the best way to introduce raisins to your rabbits?

Start with the smallest raisin you can find and give that to your rabbit. If your rabbit has any side effects to the treat, this will ensure it is minimized.

After giving your rabbit the smallest piece, watch it. If your rabbit is bothered by sugar levels, pesticides or seeds, you will be able to tell within the first few hours.

Watch for signs of stomach upset. Minor symptoms do not require a vet visit.

If your rabbit is showing signs of weakness or is refusing to eat or drink, be sure to call your veterinarian.

At worst, your rabbit’s digestive balance could be upset by the introduction of the sugar. If pesticides were present on the raisins, your rabbit may experience more severe symptoms. A veterinarian can institute treatments to bring your rabbit back into balance.

How to cook raisins for rabbits

Of course, raisins are not difficult to eat. However, it is important to remember that rabbits can become ill from outside chemicals or encounter other problems when they eat new food. Before you feed your rabbit raisins, remember:

Rinse your raisins

Grapes that are processed into raisins often contain pesticide residues. This is especially true for Muscat, Sultana and Black Corinth. A human may not be able to tell the difference, but a rabbit often can. Be sure to rinse the raisins before feeding them to your rabbit.

A quick rinse in cool, running water should remove any remaining chemicals. As a bonus, remove any dust or dirt that may have covered the raisin during the original drying process.

Alternatively, you can opt for organic raisins. These brands might be a bit pricey, but they’re not made from grapes that have been sprayed with pesticides.

Cut into small pieces

Before feeding your rabbit raisins, be sure to cut them into small pieces. Because they are tiny chunks, there is less chance of overfeeding to your rabbit.

Also, crushing these dried grapes will remove any seeds that are in the raisins. Although they are often made from seedless grape varieties, this is not always the case. This practice reduces the risk of choking and keeps you on the safe side.

Use as a form of enrichment

A good way to keep your rabbit from eating too many raisins is to make the rabbit work for it. This approach also serves as a high-quality form of exercise.

To use raisins as an enrichment, hide them in your rabbit’s toy or habitat. Your bunny has the ability to dig around and interact with objects. At the end, it will be rewarded with a treat.

How Many Raisins Should You Feed Your Rabbit?

There is no official recommendation as to how many raisins can be fed to a rabbit. However, veterinarians generally agree on how much fruit a rabbit can eat per day. More specifically, this is one teaspoon of fruit for every two pounds of a rabbit’s body weight.

The problem, however, is that raisins are dried. Therefore, they weigh significantly less than other types of fruit. In addition, they are not only lighter, but also much smaller. Therefore, the number of raisins a rabbit can safely eat is much less.

As a rule of thumb, it’s best not to feed your rabbit more than two whole pieces of raisins, no more than twice a week. That estimate fits an average-sized rabbit—specifically, around five pounds.

Raisin shorthand

What if your rabbit is bigger or smaller? Think how many grapes you would feed your rabbit. A whole grape equals a raisin. While two raisins may seem paltry, in their full, water-filled form they would be far more filling.

Of course, larger rabbits can eat more, and lighter rabbits should eat less. Because every rabbit is different, regardless of their weight or the amount of raisins, you should still keep an eye on your rabbit’s reaction.

Can you give raisins to young rabbits?

Raisins are not inherently toxic to younger rabbits. However, as a rule of thumb, it is not advisable to feed younger rabbits fruits and vegetables.

As young, rabbits are still developing the gut flora that will carry them throughout their lives. Any food that can upset an adult rabbit’s stomach will affect a young rabbit even faster – and harder. With their underdeveloped digestive systems, baby rabbits will have a harder time digesting new food. Any harmful bacteria they encounter have far more negative effects.

For this reason, it is not recommended to feed raisins to a young rabbit. It may not harm the bunny immediately, but it is far more likely to harm him overall. Instead, wait until it’s grown before introducing it to this delicious — but tricky — treat.

Rabbits can safely eat raisins. While they’re not the superfood your rabbit’s diet needs, there are benefits to using raisins as a treat. Be sure to clean them properly, cut them into chunks, and only feed your rabbit 2 full portions twice a week. When rationed sparingly, your rabbit can enjoy the flavor, minerals and nutrients, and added enrichment to their lifestyle.

Feed your bunny

Rabbits need a balanced diet to be healthy. They are herbivores, meaning they only eat plants and need to eat constantly to keep their metabolism going. Proper nutrition affects their health in a number of ways – it can help give them a healthy coat, balanced personality, strong immune system and long life. A good rabbit diet should consist primarily of hay, vegetables and pellets. Treats should be a limited part of a rabbit’s diet. Read on to learn more about the specifics of a rabbit’s nutritional needs. Remember: rabbits need 85% hay, 10% greens, 5% or less pellets, and treats should be used sparingly.

A rabbit food pyramid. Mainly hay and greens, a small amount of pellets and a berry treat.

hay

About 85% of their diet should be hay. Fiber is necessary for a rabbit’s digestion. A deficiency in this essential fiber can lead to dental disease and long-term GI problems. Rabbits should eat their height in hay daily, not their weight, but a pile of hay about the size of their body.

Timothy hay is usually the best hay for a rabbit’s diet. Rabbits seem to prefer 2nd or 3rd cut hay. This hay is softer and contains fewer seed heads than first cut hay. At our pet shelter store (open to members only) we sell 5, 10 and 25 pound boxes of Timothy Hay from American Pet Diner, Small Pet Select and Rabbit Hole. Try one out and see which your rabbit prefers.

Even 3 week old babies eat timothy hay.

“Oat hay is an excellent source of fiber for rabbits; it’s great as a treat or if you have severe dandruff to help your digestion.”

However, if you find that you are allergic to timothy hay, there are some alternatives. Orchard grass, meadow grass, brome and mountain grass are possible substitute hay varieties. For a treat, try Farmer Dave’s Clover Hay (not for everyday use). Some rabbits also like oat hay, which can occasionally be purchased at our shelter store or at Sierra Valley Hay. Oat hay is packed with delicious oat grits and is very high in fiber. It is great for molting season to aid in digestion. Legumes like alfalfa and treats like clover should not be used as daily hay for rabbits. They are too high in fat and protein.

Fun fact

Green

Greens are also important for rabbit health. They provide them with essential vitamins and minerals and are part of their natural diet. Often you will hear that a rabbit needs vegetables, actually they need greens. Starches and sugars in other vegetables are not needed in their diet and can do more harm than good. The water in the greens is also important to keep them hydrated. Some rabbits are not great drinkers of water, so offering them a lettuce can help.

There is some disagreement as to whether calcium-rich greens can lead to bladder stone formation in rabbits. No scientific evidence has been found for this claim. However, many rabbit owners prefer not to take any chances, especially with bunnies that are prone to mud and rocks. Some rabbits actually show signs of stomach upset with vegetables that are very high in calcium. Regardless of whether you feed them these greens, always make sure to introduce them slowly. Any new food can cause indigestion. Never give your rabbit iceberg lettuce, it contains no real nutritional value and the excess water can make them very sick. If you want to find out the nutritional value of your bunnies’ vegetables, try here. Calcium-rich foods are marked with an *. Here’s a list of veggies to try: Green leaf lettuce

Red leaf lettuce

romaine lettuce

Red Romaine Lettuce

Boston salad

butter salad

Curly endives

escarole

frisee

Spinach*

Parsley – flat or curly*

Coriander*

Kale*

mustard green*

Dandelion Green* When it comes to cruciferous (cruciferous) vegetables, be aware that rabbits, like humans, can get gas from these foods: broccoli, cabbage, bok choy, and collards. Rabbits should be fed about 1 cup of chopped veggies for every 2 pounds of body weight. Remember to start slowly. If they haven’t eaten their veggies in less than 10 minutes, they’re probably getting too much (or they’re new to veggies and insecure). Rabbits should never eat beans, legumes, onions, garlic, dairy products, bread, seeds, or corn. Carrots are NOT on this list because they are considered a treat. So everything is fruit.​

pellets

Pellets used to be the main ingredient in rabbit nutrition. As knowledge of rabbit health and digestion has increased, so have their nutritional requirements. Pellets are now considered more of a dietary supplement than a meal. Underweight rabbits and nursing mothers are the only exceptions to this rule. Pellets were introduced to increase fat and growth in meat rabbits. There was no interest in keeping these rabbits healthy for life and we now know that rabbits can live to be 8-12+ years old.

So if hay is supposed to make up 80-85% of a rabbit’s diet and greens 10%, then pellets should make up no more than 5% of a rabbit’s diet. A good rule of thumb for the maximum amount they should be getting per day is 1/4 cup for every 6 pounds of rabbits. Most rabbits don’t need anywhere near that amount of pelleted food. Some rabbits are placed on a zero-pellet diet by veterinarians due to health issues such as obesity and excessive cecotrope production (soft, nutrient-rich feces absorbed by rabbits) (https://rabbit.org/intermittent-soft-cecotropes- in rabbits/). ). If a rabbit is overweight, pellets and treats should be the only things restricted in their diet. A zero pellet diet can be tried, consult your vet first. You have to increase their greens and give them at least 4 different types of greens per day. Pellets contain a good amount of necessary vitamins and minerals. What Pellets Should You Feed Your Rabbit? Simply put, nothing special. You don’t want to see pretty colors, seeds, nuts, dehydrated fruits and vegetables in your pellets. You only want 12-14% protein, too much protein is not good for a rabbit’s kidneys. Just 1-2% max fat should also be on your list. Rabbits, like humans, are prone to obesity and coronary heart disease. You want 20-30% fiber. They eat constantly and need fiber in their diet to aid in digestion. Timothy-based pellets are preferred, but alfalfa-based pellets are fine for teens and nursing mothers. Our rescue sells the following pellets at their on-site members store. Due to our occupancy permits, you must be a member to shop at the shelter. Oxbow Essentials Pellets for adult and young rabbits

Selection for small pets

ToPreem

Highest selectivity

Kaytee Timothy Complete We sell these products at a lower price than many local stores, so everyone benefits when they buy their rabbit supplies from us. If you want to learn more about the importance of rabbit nutrition, visit the House Rabbit Society’s national website and their food section.

treats

Anyone who owns a rabbit knows they love their food. They are excellent at getting their owners to give them more. They can throw out their empty bowls and flip their haystacks to let you know they’re running out of food. However, you don’t have to give them junk food to appease them. Here are some options for feeding your never-satisfied bunnies.​

Fruit is a good treat, but you don’t need it every day. Sugar is difficult for a rabbit to digest and can lead to excessive bacterial growth in the cecum. Sugar turns into fat and this can cause a whole list of other problems for rabbits. A 1 inch piece of fruit is all they should have in a day – but they don’t need it, and obese rabbits or rabbits with digestive problems should not be given any fruit at all. Here is a list of fruits that should be used sparingly. Apple

Blueberries (mash them first to avoid swallowing them whole)

strawberry

pineapple

papaya

pear

peach

Cherries (pitted)

Oranges (skinned) Bananas are often given by rabbit owners – this fruit is very sugary and should be given in even smaller amounts than the others.

Oats are a good treat for rabbits. Like anything else, they should be administered in moderation. A teaspoon a day is sufficient unless you have an underweight rabbit. Oats are low in sugar but higher in fat. However, they do have a good amount of fiber in them. Buy thick oatmeal, not instant. Try Bob’s Red Mill. If your rabbit is overweight or has problems with cecotropes, do not feed them any treats, including oats, on a daily basis. Another great treat? Green. Yes, they should be getting them daily, but try giving them a few leaves of fresh basil or mint. You’ll love it almost as much as bananas and they’re a lot healthier. Dried willow leaves are loved by most rabbits. Try Bunny Biscotti from our shop, your bunnies will love it! We also have some homemade cookies at our shelter. APD and Oxbow both make variations of bunny cookies that can be purchased both online and in our store.

Fruits and vegetables for rabbits

There’s a long-standing stereotype that rabbits always eat carrots, but the truth behind rabbit nutrition is quite different. Your pet rabbit’s diet should consist primarily of pet-quality timothy or grass hay such as orchard, oat or meadow hay, a high-quality pelleted diet, and some fruits and vegetables may be added for variety and supplemental nutrition.

Some good vegetables for rabbits are leafy greens and carrot tops. Your vet may also occasionally recommend small amounts of fruits and non-leaf vegetables as a special treat. Read on to learn more about what vegetables rabbits can eat, and see our rabbit care sheet for additional tips.

Table of Contents

What Vegetables Are Safe for My Rabbits?

The best vegetables for rabbits are those that provide lots of nutrients and are easy to digest. It is recommended that pet parents feed their rabbit no more than two cups of green leafy vegetables and no more than two tablespoons of vegetables per day. Consult your veterinarian to find out what food is best for your rabbit. Vegetables best suited for rabbits include:

carrot tops

watercress

Green lettuce

Red leaf lettuce

butter salad

basil

coriander

paprika

zucchini

cucumber

Cauliflower

What fruits are good for my rabbits?

Can rabbits eat fruit? Yes, but you should consume it with even more caution than most vegetables. Your pet rabbit should eat fruit no more than twice a week and with your veterinarian’s approval. Because of the high sugar content, you need to be very careful when feeding your rabbit different types of fruit. It is recommended that you stick to a single serving size of 1 to 2 tablespoons and only offer this once or twice a week. Also, be sure to remove all pits, seeds, pips, stems, and leaves before giving fruit to your pet.

This can leave many pet parents wondering, “What fruits can rabbits eat?” Fruits that rabbits love and are usually acceptable to them include the following:

apples

pears

strawberries

cranberries

mango

apricots

Grapes

watermelon

nectarines

plum

General tips for feeding your rabbit

Most of your rabbit’s diet should consist of grass hay. Never offer grass clippings from your garden or cow quality hay. You can find quality rabbit food and hay at Petco and other pet food stores. There are many different mixes available and the right choice for your pet can depend on the nutrition they provide and their personal preferences. Pet owners are advised not to feed alfalfa hay in large quantities as it contains more protein and calcium than recommended for most adult rabbits. Stick to timothy, orchard, oats, or meadow hay, or consult your veterinarian for a recommendation.

Grass hay is crucial for rabbit digestion and is also rich in the nutrients it needs – including vitamin A. Grass hay is high in fiber, which keeps your rabbit regular and helps maintain gastrointestinal health. Your rabbit needs to eat grass hay in order for its digestive system to function properly.

In addition to that essential grass hay, you can feed them 1-2 tablespoons of a high-quality pelleted food and rabbit-safe vegetables and fruits each day as outlined above. It’s helpful to think of fruits and vegetables as treats rather than staple foods for your pet.

Water requirements for rabbits

Rabbits should have fresh water available at all times so they can digest fruits and vegetables. Some pets prefer to drink from a bowl – but be aware that an open bowl will need cleaning more often throughout the day as your pet drops food scraps into it. Another option is a water bottle sipper that can be attached to the side of rabbit cages and habitats. These water bottles only release water when your pet presses a ball at the bottom of the sipper.

What can rabbits eat?

It is important to know what foods your rabbit can and cannot eat.

Your pets rely on you to provide them with nutritious food and keep them healthy.

When most people imagine a rabbit eating, they imagine them enjoying fresh vegetables.

It is a common belief that pet rabbits can survive on a diet of lettuce.

Rabbits actually require a balanced diet made up of many different components, with vegetables making up a small part of their diet overall.

But can rabbits eat celery, cucumber, watermelon, lettuce, can they?

Can rabbits eat cucumbers?

Yes, it’s safe for rabbits to eat cucumbers! Most rabbits will love the fresh taste.

Rabbits can also eat cucumber leaves.

Before feeding your rabbit cucumbers, wash them in cold water to remove pesticides. Choose organically grown cucumbers whenever possible.

Only give your rabbit a few small pieces of cucumber at a time.

Health Benefits of Cucumber

Cucumbers are 95% water.

Feeding your rabbit cucumber can be a great way to give her a hydration boost, especially in hot weather or when your rabbit isn’t drinking enough water.

Cucumber is low in kilojoules, making it a great treat for rabbits as they are prone to obesity.

The skin is the healthiest part of the cucumber as it is high in fiber.

Otherwise, cucumbers have no real nutritional value.

risks

Cucumbers are low in nutrients. Therefore, if you feed it too often, you risk satiating your rabbit without providing any significant nutritional value.

Because of its high water content, cucumber can cause diarrhea in your rabbit. When your rabbit produces loose cecotropes (the kind of feces rabbits eat), they’re harder to consume.

Rabbits depend on consuming cecotropes to get many of their nutrients, including B vitamins. Therefore, diarrhea can lead to malnutrition.

Only feed your rabbit small amounts of cucumbers at a time. If cucumbers are causing gas or diarrhea, stop feeding them to your rabbit.

Can rabbits eat celery?

Yes, rabbits can eat celery! It can be included as part of their balanced diet.

Remember to feed your rabbit a variety of different vegetables to keep them as healthy as possible.

Most rabbits enjoy eating celery. It’s sweet enough to taste great without being loaded with excess sugar.

Always give your rabbit raw celery, never cooked celery. Rabbits cannot properly digest cooked vegetables.

Plus, crunching raw celery is both comfortable for your rabbit and great for their teeth.

Rabbits can also eat the leaves of the celery plant. Sometimes the leaves are even more nutritious than the rest!

In terms of quantity, celery should be included in the small amount of mixed vegetables that you give your rabbit daily.

When introducing celery to your rabbit for the first time, introduce it slowly at first, using very small amounts.

Health Benefits of Celery

Celery is very healthy for your rabbit. It is a good source of various vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B, C and potassium.

The indigestible fiber in celery helps keep your rabbit’s digestion healthy and regular.

Eating celery can also keep your rabbit hydrated.

Its high water content helps keep your rabbit’s hydration level high. This is especially beneficial if your rabbit isn’t drinking enough water.

Chewing on crunchy celery also helps wear down your rabbit’s ever-growing teeth.

risks

Introduce celery into your rabbits’ diet slowly and feed celery in moderation.

Too much celery can cause indigestion and diarrhea. If this occurs, stop feeding your rabbit celery. Rabbits can have sensitive digestive tracts, and some individual bunnies just aren’t cut out for certain vegetables.

The stringy parts of celery can get stuck in your rabbit’s teeth, just like human teeth.

Likewise, these long strands can get caught in your rabbit’s throat and be uncomfortable or even become a choking hazard.

To avoid this, always cut the celery into small pieces. Shorter strands are less dangerous. The smaller the better, but at least cut into pieces no longer than 2cm.

The sheets pose no risk of choking and are safer.

Can Rabbits Eat Watermelon?

Yes, adult rabbits can safely eat small amounts of watermelon. Most rabbits will love the sweet and refreshing taste.

Never feed baby rabbits fruit.

Watermelon can be fed as a treat once or twice a week. Each serving should be no more than a tablespoon. Less is more!

Always feed ripe watermelons. It is safer to feed unripened watermelons than wilted watermelons.

Rabbits can eat the rind of the watermelon. It’s actually healthier for your rabbit than meat. Make sure you cut it into small pieces as it can be quite chewy.

Rabbits cannot eat watermelon seeds. Always cut watermelons into small pieces and remove all seeds. If possible, buy seedless watermelon.

Health Benefits of Watermelon

Watermelon is high in water and can help keep your rabbit hydrated on warmer days.

It is also rich in vitamins A, C, magnesium and choline. Choline helps improve your rabbits’ sleep and muscle movement.

The healthiest part of the watermelon is the rind. It contains more fiber and less sugar.

risks

Watermelons have a very high sugar content. Rabbits cannot break down this sugar naturally. While it’s okay in small doses, too much sugar leads to indigestion and diarrhea.

Seeds can clog your rabbit’s intestines. You cannot chew or vomit them properly. Always remove seeds!

Much like humans, rabbits can develop a sweet tooth when fed sugar regularly. If you feed him sweet fruits daily, he may begin to refuse necessary foods like hay or pellets.

Watermelon juice can also be quite sticky. If your rabbit gets watermelon juice on their fur, it will stick together. You then have to bathe it or at least spot clean its fur.

Feed your rabbit bite-sized pieces and check their fur after eating.

Can rabbits eat spinach?

Yes, you can! Spinach is healthy for both you and your rabbit. You can buy a large pile for yourself and share the leftovers with your pet.

Spinach should be fed fresh to your rabbit. Never give him spinach that has gone bad (wilted, smelly, and slimy). This could give your rabbit a bacterial infection.

Always feed your rabbit raw spinach. Never give him cooked spinach. They are unable to properly digest cooked food.

Wash the spinach before feeding it to your rabbit. This removes both dirt and harmful pesticides.

Rabbits can be very sensitive to chemicals.

Organic spinach can be a great option for your bunny. It has been less exposed to pesticides and may have higher nutrient levels.

If spinach is a new food for your rabbit, introduce it gradually to minimize diarrhea or indigestion.

Give it a small amount, wait 24 hours and see if it processes soft poop.

If this is the case, stop feeding him spinach. If not, give him very small amounts for 2-3 weeks. Then you can feed normally.

Health Benefits of Spinach

Spinach is a superfood! It’s packed with essential vitamins and minerals that will benefit both you and your long-eared friend.

It is rich in vitamin A, which is essential for healthy rabbit growth.

It’s also a great source of vitamins C, E, and K and the minerals calcium, iron, folate, magnesium, and potassium.

The stems and stalks of spinach are the healthiest parts. They are richer in fiber.

The spinach leaves are also very nutritious. The roots have the highest sugar content (since that’s where the spinach plant stores its energy), so don’t feed them to your rabbit.

For the healthiest possible rabbit, feed them a balanced diet with a variety of fresh leafy greens.

Healthy vegetables include broccoli, celery, carrot tops, bok choy and dark leaf lettuce. Herbs rabbits like include parsley, oregano, cilantro, basil, dill, and mint.

risks

Rabbits should be fed spinach in moderation. It is best to feed it spinach once a week, but no more than twice a week.

Spinach should be given as part of a balanced diet with a variety of fresh produce, grass hay and pellets. Variety is essential.

Feeding your rabbit too much spinach can make them uncomfortable.

Spinach is rich in oxalic acid. Oxalic acid is a naturally occurring toxin that’s okay in small amounts. However, when consumed in excess, oxalic acid binds minerals and renders them insoluble. These include magnesium and calcium.

This can cause itchy skin, urinary tract problems, and life-threatening bladder stones.

Spinach itself is also very rich in calcium. Excess calcium can cause kidney problems.

Don’t let these risks stop you from feeding your rabbit spinach! The health benefits are definitely worth making spinach a part of your rabbits’ diet. Just make sure you feed it in moderation.

Can rabbits eat lettuce?

Rabbits can eat lettuce. However, a rabbit’s diet should never be based primarily on lettuce.

Any lettuce given to your rabbit should be given in moderation as part of their vegetable intake. Large amounts of lettuce can cause digestive problems and general health problems for your rabbit.

Some salads are better than others.

You shouldn’t feed your pet rabbit light-colored and watery lettuce, such as iceberg lettuce. Iceberg lettuce has very little nutritional value. This means your rabbit will get full from it but not get the nutrients or kilojoules it needs.

Iceberg lettuce commonly causes diarrhea in rabbits, which if bad enough can be fatal.

Some veterinarians also claim that iceberg lettuce can be harmful to pet rabbits in large quantities. It contains a compound called lactucarium.

This is a milky liquid secreted by lettuce stalks. Some argue that lactucarium can have a calming effect on your rabbit and cause health problems.

You can feed your pet rabbit darker and leafier varieties of lettuce. These include cos (aka romaine), loose leaf and lettuce. These contain more nutritional value, including vitamins A, C, K and fiber.

You can also eat dark green salads like arugula or spinach.

What foods are best for rabbits

While rabbits love to eat leafy greens, there are many foods that are much more nutritious for your pet rabbit than lettuce.

A rabbit’s diet should be primarily grass based. You should provide your pet rabbit with an unlimited supply of fresh grass hay (including timothy and meadow hay). This supports your rabbit’s digestive health and helps wear down their teeth.

Pet rabbits should be fed about a cup of vegetables per day, depending on the rabbit’s size and body weight.

It is best to include a variety of vegetables (including lettuce). This gives your rabbit a wider choice of nutrients, as well as different flavors.

The best vegetables for your pet rabbit are bok choy, basil, celery, bell peppers, carrot tops, Brussels sprouts, broccolini, and parsley.

Only ever feed your rabbit raw, undercooked vegetables, not cooked ones.

There’s a lot of debate (and undecided by many) as to whether or not it’s okay to feed your rabbit cabbage. Some believe that kale contains high levels of oxalic acid. This is a naturally occurring toxin produced by plants as a repellent.

It is also healthy for your pet rabbit to regularly eat small amounts of high-quality, fibrous pellets.

Fruit can occasionally be given to your pet as a treat. Note that fruit is high in sugar and should not be given on a regular basis. Rabbits love strawberries, bananas and apples (careful, avoid seeds!).

Always provide your pet rabbit with a constant source of clean water.

Never feed your pet rabbit avocado, chili, potatoes, onions, coconut or cabbage.

If you have any doubts about whether or not you can feed your pet rabbit anything, don’t do it. Rabbits will eat almost anything offered to them, so it’s up to you to decide what is and isn’t okay for them.

Can rabbits eat tomatoes?

Tomatoes are a fruit, and fruit should only ever be a treat for pet rabbits. You can feed your rabbit a slice of tomato or a small cherry tomato once a week. Tomatoes can be a great exercise tool. Gently hand feed your bunny tomato chunks to help bind.

You can give your rabbit red or yellow tomatoes. They should be raw (not cooked or canned) and ripe (not rotten). Always wash tomatoes before giving them to your rabbit to clean and remove pesticides. Cut the tomato into small pieces and remove all the seeds.

Do not feed your rabbit green tomatoes or any part of the tomato plant (including leaves, stems, vines and flowers). These can be toxic. Never give baby rabbits fruit.

Health Benefits of Tomatoes

Tomatoes provide some food for rabbits. They are high in vitamins A, B6 and C. They are also high in potassium and antioxidants.

However, rabbits should get the majority of their diet from other sources.

risks

Eating too many tomatoes can make your rabbit uncomfortable. The high sugar and acid content in tomatoes can encourage the growth of harmful bacteria in your rabbit’s gut. This can lead to painful bloating or diarrhea.

Eating tomatoes too regularly can cause your rabbit to become overweight. Green tomatoes, as well as tomato leaves, stems, vines, and flowers can be poisonous to rabbits. They contain solanine and tomato, which can irritate your rabbit’s digestive system and lead to death. Avoid feeding any of these to your rabbit.

Tomatoes are also very juicy and messy, and the juice can get stuck in your rabbit’s fur. Always check and clean your rabbit after feeding dirty fruit.

Can rabbits eat grapes?

White and red grapes can be occasionally fed to your rabbit as a treat. Most rabbits will love the sweet taste. They’re a great treat for training and bonding.

Feed your rabbit fresh (not dried) grapes that have been washed. Feed only one to two grapes per week, cut into small pieces. Remove seeds and skin. Although the skin is edible, too much of it can lead to kidney problems.

Health Benefits of Grapes

Grapes are high in water and can help keep your rabbit hydrated. Studies have shown that rabbits who eat grapes have healthier hearts. Grapes contain vitamin C, B6 and potassium. However, your rabbit should get most of its nutrients from other sources.

risks

Grapes are high in sugar. Consuming too much sugar can lead to obesity in rabbits. It can also be digested too quickly, causing painful gas and bloating. Eating too many grapes can change the acidity in your rabbit’s stomach and prevent the growth of good bacteria. It is debated that excess grapes can lead to kidney problems in rabbits. Always feed in moderation.

Compared to other fruits and vegetables, grapes have a particularly high level of pesticide residues. Always buy organic whenever possible. Wash and soak the grapes thoroughly in water before feeding them to your rabbit.

Can rabbits eat corn?

Whether or not rabbits can eat corn is a contentious issue. Corn isn’t toxic to rabbits, so technically they can eat it.

However, it is extremely difficult to digest and can cause digestive problems. In some rabbits, these problems appear immediately. For others, they can build up over time.

It is safest to feed your rabbit an entire corn diet. There are many other healthier vegetables you can feed your rabbit that have more benefits and no risks.

Health Benefits of Corn

Corn has no real nutritional benefit for rabbits. It just fills them up.

risks

All parts of corn are difficult for rabbits to digest, especially the tough outer layer of the kernels. Rabbits often swallow their food without chewing it properly. The corn is then not broken down during digestion. Undigested food can get lodged in the rabbit’s intestines, causing intestinal blockages, sores, and illnesses such as gastrointestinal stasis (where digestion slows or stops entirely).

Corn contains too much starch, sugar, and carbohydrates to be healthy for rabbits.

Stringy corn husks can get caught in your bunny’s teeth and windpipe, causing pain and possible choking.

Can rabbits eat cauliflower?

Rabbits can eat all parts of the cauliflower. This includes flowers, leaves and stems. The leaves are the healthiest part. You can feed your rabbit some cauliflower leaves several times a week as part of their daily mixed leafy greens.

Cauliflower florets and stalks can be fed as a treat. Feed your rabbit a few teaspoons of cauliflower florets and stalks occasionally. Many rabbits don’t like the taste of cauliflower. It’s not an essential vegetable. If they don’t like it, they don’t have to force it.

Health Benefits of Cauliflower

Cauliflower is high in fiber, which rabbits need to keep their digestive systems healthy. Fiber also makes your rabbit feel full after a meal. This, along with the fact that cauliflower is low in kilojoules, will help keep your pet rabbit from becoming overweight. Cauliflower is also a good source of vitamin C, protein, and potassium.

risks

Feeding your pet rabbit an excess of vegetables can upset their digestive system and make them uncomfortable. Feeding him too much cauliflower can cause painful gas, bloating, and diarrhea. Introduce new vegetables to your rabbit slowly and in moderation.

introduction of new foods

When first feeding your rabbit lettuce (or a new food), always introduce it gradually, in small amounts. This can help prevent digestive problems.

Rabbits are all unique and some will not tolerate food that others may.

If your rabbit produces soft poop 24 hours after you first gave him the new lettuce, it’s a sign that it’s not suitable for your pet.

attribution / sources;

Why is your rabbit chewing things other than food? Chewing is a normal, natural, necessary (and very enjoyable) activity for rabbits. Here’s information to help you understand why rabbits chew and how to prevent your favorite furniture from being destroyed.

What are the psychological factors of chewing?

Sex. Females often have a stronger urge to dig than males, although this is not the only reason rabbits chew. The hormone/age factors below also apply to men. Both male and female dogs should be spayed or spayed as soon as they are sexually mature (4-6 months old). Make sure they’re chewing the right things – hay, untreated grass mats, etc. Their teeth are always growing, so they need hard chews to keep their teeth groomed. Provide sufficient fresh hay, boxes, etc.

hormones/age. is she neutered

If young (under 2 years old) and unpaid, neuter them

If she is young and neutered, her chewing will decrease over time

If she is mature (over 2 years) and unpaid, spay her, but get checked out first

Once mature and spayed, her behavior will not be dictated by hormones

Remember that a neutered rabbit will chew less and less as it matures. It may just be about surviving a high-energy phase in your bunny’s life.

Personality. Chewers are often intelligent, outgoing, loving individuals who like to be in charge and get lots of attention. Does she chew to get attention? Would a companion ease the boredom? Anything that would entertain/make them happier could decrease their chewing.

What are the environmental factors of chewing?

Distractions: Keep trying to find something harmless that she enjoys doing. What kind of “burrow” (e.g. a cardboard box filled with hay) can you provide her with?

Environmental Protection: A box or wire basket can be passed over a group of wires. Browse a large hardware store for products you can use for bunny shelters. Hardware stores make wire covers/troughs that easily go over your house wires.

Confinement (in a cage or room): This simply buys you time while rabbit proofing, having her spayed, or waiting for her to grow up.

Should I give my rabbit chews?

Yes. You can give rabbits pieces of whatever they want to chew: their own small towel, for example, provided they don’t eat it.

Give your rabbit plenty of fresh hay — oat hay, timothy, orchard hay — and replace it twice or more a day.

Items that are harmless to rabbits:

Hay!

Apple, willow, aspen branches

pine wood

cotton towels

Unfinished fresh pine attached to cage to keep it from moving – molding, 1″x2″s or 2″x4″s

Basket with hay in it – let the bun chew both the basket and the hay

compressed alfalfa cubes

Aren’t some woods poisonous?

Fruit tree branches such as apricot and peach are poisonous when stuck to the tree, but not after they have been cut and dried (a month or more). For your bunny’s safety, limit your imported basket purchases to willow, the only basket material that hasn’t been sprayed with pesticides.

Does Carpet Chewing Hurt My Rabbit?

Yes, if they pick up the carpet fibers. Because ingesting indigestible materials like carpet is a health hazard for your rabbit, you should treat excessive chewing with a petroleum laxative such as Petromalt or Laxatone (available at pet stores).

Should I give my rabbit things to dig in?

Yes. For digging, build a “tunnel” – top is not needed, only bottom, high sides and end. Cover the floor with some carpet or something similar. Bunnies love digging at the end of tunnels. The same can be accomplished by placing a board with rug pinned against the wall between two heavy pieces of furniture… just be sure the board can’t move or the bun will dig the rug under where the board should be.

Can I discipline my rabbit not to chew?

no Discipline (clapping hands, saying “no”) will not stop chewing. Most people report that getting their bunnies to understand is easy, but difficult to get them to stop the behavior through the use of discipline, especially if the bunnies are left alone for a period of time.

Rather than trying to discipline your rabbit, set him up for success with positive reinforcement for desired behaviors, an environment enriched with rabbit-safe objects for digging and chewing, and removing his access to things you don’t want him to chew.

What Rabbits Should Really Eat

There are many misconceptions about what rabbits should eat, including the myth that rabbits need lots of carrots and lettuce, as well as regular servings of commercial food. While carrots are fine as an occasional treat, rabbits will not eat fruits or vegetables in the wild.

To be clear, here are our top rabbit diet myths:

Myth #1 – Rabbits eat carrots

Reality: Carrots shouldn’t be a main food source.

Rabbits do not naturally eat root vegetables or fruit. Carrots and fruit are high in sugar and should only be fed in small amounts as an occasional treat.

Rabbits need mostly hay and/or grass, some leafy greens, and a small, measured amount of pellets.

Check out our Rabbit Meal Planner.

Myth #2 – Hay is just bedding

Reality: Hay is actually a primary food source for rabbits.

Hay is not just bedding. Fresh, dust-free hay should be your rabbit’s main source of food and you should ensure that he has access to it at all times. Eating lots of hay or grass will help wear down rabbits’ ever-growing teeth and keep their bellies healthy. It also enables foraging and grazing, which are important natural behaviors.

Myth #3 – Rabbits eat lettuce

Reality: A rabbit’s diet should not be based on lettuce.

Rabbits should avoid eating some lettuce (like Iceberg) as they contain lactucarium, which can be harmful in large amounts. Some lettuces are “worse” than others – light-colored varieties have high water content and very little nutritional value and are therefore not recommended.

You can feed your rabbit darker, leafier, and fibrous varieties (such as romaine lettuce) as they contain more fiber and intrinsic nutrients. Introduce them gradually, as large amounts of lettuce can cause upset stomachs in rabbits who aren’t used to it.

Myth #4 – Rabbits should primarily eat store-bought rabbit food

Reality: Eating too much store-bought rabbit food can lead to weight gain and prevent your rabbit from eating enough hay and/or grass.

You can feed your rabbit a small, measured amount of pellets or nuggets each day to ensure they are getting all the vitamins and minerals they need. Don’t feed your rabbit muesli-style foods as this can lead to dental and stomach problems.

Rabbits eat quickly when you give them prepackaged rabbit food and that means they can run out of things and get bored. Remember that hay and grass are far more important and should make up the majority of your rabbit’s diet.

See: Make feeding fun.

If you are concerned about feeding your rabbit tomatoes, it is a wise concern as tomatoes have a certain reputation. They belong to the nightshade family along with peppers, potatoes, tobacco and eggplant. These plants contain the chemical solanine, which can be toxic to some animals. Nightshades are also known to have inflammatory properties for humans.

Tomatoes can be fed to your rabbit – in small amounts

The good news is that tomatoes are fine to feed your rabbit in small amounts. A healthy rabbit will eat a mix of hay, vegetables, and pellets, with fruit added a few times a week. Tomatoes make a great occasional snack or treat for your rabbit.

They’re a quick, easy treat your rabbit will love, and they provide your pet with a healthy dose of nutrients. Fresh tomatoes are a great source of vitamins A and C, as well as other vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. However, you need to watch their quantities.

Fruits are the best treats for your pet rabbit. Whether you think of tomatoes as a fruit or a vegetable, your rabbit doesn’t care: tomatoes should not be considered a regular part of the diet. It’s best to rotate the type of fruit you offer to ensure your rabbit is getting a variety of nutrients each week.

While the cliché that bunnies love garden vegetables is somewhat rooted in truth, their diet should consist primarily of hay. Fruit should be used as a special treat and offered in small portions only a few times per week. Rabbits get most of the vitamins and minerals they need from hay, pellets, and leafy greens.

Feed your rabbit tomatoes

Feeding your rabbit fruits and vegetables is easy. Most bunny owners simply offer their fluffy companion some plant-based morsels from their own fridge. This saves time and is significantly cheaper. However, before you toss your bunny a slice of tomato while making your own salad, there are a few important things to keep in mind. While most of the fruits and vegetables you eat yourself are healthy elements of a rabbit’s diet, there are a few precautions you need to take with tomatoes.

Wash your tomato carefully. Fruit, especially whole fruit, is often covered in pesticides. These can be harmful or even toxic to your pet. Even if you feed your rabbit fruit from your own garden, it’s still wise to wash it carefully.

Remove the stem and leaves from your tomato. You should not feed your rabbit the stems and leaves of a tomato plant. The concentration of toxic chemicals is particularly high in these parts of the tomato, making your rabbit likely to get sick. In fact, wild rabbits instinctively avoid tomato plants and only nibble on the fruit.

Cut the tomato into an appropriate size. If using a large tomato, slice it. For cherry or plum tomatoes, cutting them in half will suffice. Remove the seeded part of the tomato. Seeded fruits are not usually recommended for rabbits. The seeds can cause gastrointestinal distress and are often poisonous.

how much is ok

Remember that your rabbit has an incredibly small stomach. A rabbit’s diet should contain no more than 5% treats, so moderation is key. Just the flesh of a cherry tomato is enough to satisfy their need for treats. If you have plum tomatoes on hand, a quarter would work best. A sandwich-sized slice of a tomato is a perfect portion.

Feeding your rabbit too many tomatoes can mean that they are not hungry enough to consume other foods that provide most of their nutrition. Rabbits love treats, but too many can lead to malnutrition and a host of dangerous, expensive health problems. Rabbits need to have enough appetite to chew fibrous hay to keep their teeth from growing too long.

Proper use of treats is one of the most important parts of caring for your pet. Follow these recommended tomato guidelines to keep your rabbit as happy and healthy as possible.

Read relatives:

Featured image: Josephine Baran on Unsplash

Popcorn is a health hazard for rabbits. The same goes for fresh corn and corn kernels. There are many risks that make popcorn a food for rabbits to avoid. If you let your rabbit eat popcorn, you can give them empty calories that can lead to life-threatening conditions.

Not only is popcorn unsafe for rabbits, but all types of corn are bad for rabbits. Popcorn can pose a choking hazard in smaller rabbits, as well as health problems in rabbits of all sizes. Because it is indigestible for rabbits, popcorn can cause constipation and gastrointestinal stasis. Being high in carbohydrates, popcorn can also lead to weight gain.

All these health issues can lead to secondary problems. Severe cases of congestion can be fatal. If your rabbit found a few pieces on the ground and ate them, you don’t need to go to the vet. As long as it doesn’t choke, there’s a good chance your rabbit will pass the popcorn without a problem. Introduce extra grass hay and water into his diet to keep the digestive tract working.

Can rabbits eat popped popcorn?

A rabbit will eat popped popcorn when presented with some tempting morsels. However, a rabbit should not be fed popcorn. Owners should not allow their rabbits access to food, even accidentally.

Popcorn in any form is harmful to rabbits. It doesn’t matter if it’s popped, unpopped, seasoned, unseasoned, etc. Fresh corn, cooked or raw, is just as dangerous to rabbits.

As such, it should not be a treat or additive to your rabbit’s food. Even if they rarely chew seeds, that doesn’t protect them from the ill effects. Because popcorn is:

Full of empty calories

The shells of the kernels cannot be digested

Flavored popcorn is high in sugar and salt

Rabbits do not benefit from eating popcorn. It’s junk food. However, unlike human junk food, it can have an immediate impact on your rabbit’s health.

Of course, this depends on the individual case. If your rabbit eats a stray piece of popcorn off the floor, don’t panic. The core can easily pass through the rabbit’s digestive system. Just keep an eye on the rabbit and monitor for symptoms.

Is popcorn dangerous for rabbits?

Popcorn – and corn in general – is not toxic to rabbits. Besides that, it is dangerous for your rabbit to eat. It doesn’t matter how the popcorn is flavored or prepared.

This is mainly because rabbits cannot vomit. If a rabbit eats something it shouldn’t, it has no choice but to let the item pass through its system. This scenario is best avoided. Popcorn may not pass, which will lead to many other health issues.

Why is popcorn bad for rabbits?

Rabbits have a specific diet, 80% of which is grass hay. Rabbits have evolved digestive systems to deal with very specific foods. These foods may also contain certain herbs and vegetables. Corn on the cob or raw corn is classified as a vegetable. However, it is not a vegetable that rabbits can eat.

This is because a kernel of corn is a kernel. Rabbits shouldn’t be fed grain because their digestive acids aren’t strong enough to break down the tough exterior. The sharp shells of the seeds can even damage the stomach and intestines.

There are rumors that not only can rabbits digest grain, but it helps rabbits grow faster. A study in the Journal of Animal Science refutes such a claim. Many reputable sources of information also state explicitly that corn and popcorn should never be fed to rabbits. Corn, popcorn, or corn on the kernel are bad for rabbits for the following reasons.

gastrointestinal stasis

As noted in the Vet Record, gastrointestinal stasis is common in pet rabbits. This disorder occurs when the food substance stops or moves more slowly through the gastrointestinal tract. It is not usually caused by an obstruction but by a change in the delicate gut flora that inhabits the rabbit’s digestive tract. It can also be caused by an obstruction, when nutrients stagnate and break down in the gut.

Corn in any form, including popcorn, can be both the hindrance and the cause of bacterial disorders. Because rabbits have a hard time digesting this food, blockages can form in the intestines or cecum (the part of the intestine that makes cecotrope). Constipation or not, if the popcorn is regularly included in the rabbit’s diet, there may also be an imbalance in the gut bacteria.

This disorder has a snowball effect if left untreated. Rabbits stop eating when they are in stasis. This makes congestion worse by not ingesting fiber to get things going again. While corn does have some fiber, a rabbit cannot efficiently digest corn to extract the fiber.

Gastrointestinal stasis can be fatal. Relief from stasis includes medication to stimulate the digestive system, fluid injections, medication, and proper diet. Signs of gastrointestinal stasis are:

loss of appetite

Malformed or small fecal pellets

teeth grinding (a sign of pain)

(a sign of pain) No fecal pellets

Visible bloating

Crouched posture (keep stomach off the floor)

lethargy

Whether or not your rabbit ate popcorn, if you notice any of these symptoms, take your rabbit to the vet as soon as possible.

gas

A symptom of gastrointestinal stasis is bloating. Rabbits cannot vomit or even burp. So when matter blocks the intestinal passage, the gases build up. These gases are:

Those normally obtained as by-products of fermentation and digestion

Harmful bacterial colonies that are out of control and producing excess gas

Depending on the severity of the stasis or blockage, these gases literally cannot pass through the rabbit’s body. They will build to the point of severe pain and will not resolve until the stasis is released.

impaction

Popcorn, corn, and corn on the cob can all cause an impaction. Rabbits have a unique digestive system that allows them to digest a meal twice. Part of it is called the appendix, which creates cecotropes. This is what the rabbit eats to get all the nutrients from their food that they can get.

Since corn is indigestible, it causes all kinds of impact problems in the gut. This can lead to gastrointestinal stasis. Improper nutrition or eating indigestible matter are the main causes of impaction and stasis. Surgery may be required depending on the severity of the impaction.

No nutritional value

Popcorn does not offer any nutritional benefits to rabbits. Corn does contain fiber, but not nearly enough to help a rabbit. Even if it were, a rabbit’s digestive system isn’t capable of extracting the fiber anyway.

Popcorn is also relatively high in carbohydrates. A rabbit doesn’t need nearly as many calories per day as a human. If you regularly feed your rabbit popcorn, it will gain weight. This can lead to heart problems, joint problems, or obesity, which causes many problems of its own.

Even as a small treat, popcorn can cause your rabbit to gain weight. There are treat alternatives that are far better options and are perfectly healthy to offer a rabbit in moderation.

sugar, salts and oils

Aside from unseasoned air-fried varieties, popcorn is usually cooked in butter or oil and then seasoned. All of this will cause problems.

Sugar leads to weight gain and can also disrupt the intestinal flora to the point of GI stasis. A rabbit can experience both if they eat too much fruit, let alone eat pure sugary spices. Fresh corn is also quite sweet, which is due to its natural sugars.

Salts are another problem. A rabbit does not need salt licks like some other animals. With a proper diet of good quality food, a rabbit will get all the salt it needs from its diet. Salty popcorn provides your rabbit with way too much salt. If this type of popcorn is fed even semi-regularly, high sodium health problems will develop.

Oil and butter are in their own category. Rabbits cannot digest any of these foods. Therefore, stasis or other digestive problems are almost certain.

Can Rabbits Eat Popcorn Kernels?

Kernels are perhaps the riskiest of all forms of corn. The tough outer covering of the kernel, the pericarp, is part of what makes corn so difficult for rabbits to digest. Uncooked popcorn will almost certainly remain whole as it passes through the digestive tract. That is, if it passes through the tract and does not cause a blockage.

Another part of the outer shell is the tip cap. Although not always the case, this tip can easily be sharp and cause internal damage. Small rabbits can also choke on unpopped corn kernels.

Do rabbits like popcorn?

Rabbits can be very picky about food. Others like to eat whatever you put in front of them or whatever they can find. Popcorn can be one of the foods that a rabbit will eagerly devour.

Worryingly, there have been a number of instances of people feeding their rabbits popcorn. This leads unsuspecting owners to believe that rabbits can and should be fed popcorn or corn. They can’t, even if they seem to like it.

Rabbits usually like sweet foods, which is corn. Even though rabbits shouldn’t eat popcorn, you can safely assume they would enjoy it.

What to do if your rabbit eats popcorn

So, what if you accidentally fed your rabbit popcorn? What if it swiped a few bits out of your bowl on movie night? How to proceed:

Above all, prevent the problem from escalating. Remove leftover popcorn from the rabbit’s reach. Then try giving your rabbit some fresh grass hay. This should help your rabbit’s digestive tract to hurry up. Introduce extra fiber into the rabbit’s diet over the next few days. This will encourage it to pass through the popcorn.

Over the next week you should closely monitor your rabbit, its droppings and how much it eats. Any deviation below should warrant an immediate visit to the veterinarian.

How much your rabbit eats

The size and shape of his poop

The amount of poop (or lack of poop)

Uneaten cecotropes

His posture for signs of pain

gas

During this week you should also make sure that the rabbit still drinks and eats a lot of hay. This will make it easier for the popcorn to pass through. Since the pericarp is indigestible, you can even find it almost entirely between piles of feces. Remove them from the housing immediately.

Rabbits’ digestive systems are almost constantly in action. It will pass hundreds of pellets every day. A rabbit should give up any popcorn eaten relatively soon after eating. Still, it’s best to monitor the rabbit for problems between 3 days and a full week.

Does popcorn kill rabbits?

Popcorn can kill rabbits. This food comes with several dangers but no benefits, which is why it is important to avoid it.

Corn in any form (including fresh, popped, and kernel) is indigestible. It can potentially cause gastrointestinal stasis, impaction, weight gain and other health problems. Gastrointestinal stasis, if left untreated, can lead to severe bloating and organ failure.

Aside from these problems, popcorn and the kernels can pose a choking hazard in smaller rabbits. Overall, popcorn – and corn in general – should never be fed to a rabbit.

If you’re looking for a small pet that you can have fun with and isn’t very demanding, a rabbit might be the right pet for you. If your living space is limited and you have children old enough to care for a pet, an adorable fluffy bunny is the number one choice for pet owners worldwide.

Even if you don’t have children, rabbits make excellent adult pets. What do rabbits eat and can they eat oranges? Here’s what you need to know about these adorable animals and what to feed them. After you’ve finished reading, be sure to check out our bunny shirts for humans

Benefits of having a pet rabbit

Rabbits don’t need a lot of living space. They need a cage large enough for them to stretch out comfortably. You’ll need a litter box on one end of the cage and a feeder with pellets, hay, and water on the other.

Read Next: Can Bunnies Eat Tangerines?

Some bunnies like to have a small cat pen or inverted box so they can hide. As long as you rabbit proof your home or a space and your bunny has enough time to run and move around the room, he will be happy.

A pet rabbit is a wonderful addition to a family. Rabbits learn to recognize their owners by sight and voice and will follow their owners from room to room and may learn to come on command.

If they feel comfortable with their owner, they will even jump on their laps and enjoy being petted. Rabbits are intelligent and will use a litter box when trained and can learn tricks such as B. running through mazes and obstacle courses. They can learn fetch and perform tricks easily when rewarded with their favorite treats.

Dogs and cats have distinctive personalities, as do rabbits. Rabbits are very sweet and affectionate. If you are considering adding a rabbit to your family, make sure the rabbit’s personality matches yours. Some rabbits are more playful and active, but some rabbits have more reserved personalities and are shy.

Although some rabbits are more outgoing than others, they don’t make much noise when running around. If you need your sleep but the bunny likes to stay up all night, no problem. Can rabbits eat oranges? Here’s what you need to know about food for your rabbit.

Typical diet for rabbits

Rabbits need high-fiber, low-protein food. Rabbits need to have plenty of water in their diet, which should consist of

grass

hay

Your rabbit can have green vegetables in their diet as long as they’re fresh, or they could upset the rabbit’s digestive tract, but can rabbits eat oranges? You can feed him fruit occasionally to give him a little variety in his diet and as a treat. Timothy or other grasses are good for rabbits. Quality rabbit pellets should be high in fiber, containing at least 18 percent fiber. When buying pellets for your rabbit, you should only buy enough to last about six weeks.

Is your rabbit insured? Get £2,000 Vet Coverage Quote | Insure up to 3 pets per policy | We have been insuring exotic pets since 1996 | Check out our customer reviews on Feefo.

Do you own a cat or a dog? Take pet insurance with ManyPets to cover up to £15,000 a year in veterinary expenses, including dental care in the event of illness and accidents.

Content: How Much Hay Should I Feed My Rabbit? | What is the best hay for my rabbit? | Why is hay so important for rabbits? | Can rabbits eat pellets? | What vegetables can rabbits eat? | What plants can rabbits eat? | What fruit can rabbits eat? | What foods are toxic to rabbits? | How much water does a rabbit need?

Keeping rabbits as pets is very popular in the UK. In fact, around 2% of UK households own one, according to the Pet Food Manufacturers Association (PFMA). And why don’t you want one? With their soft fur, big black eyes and long ears.

However, it is very important that you feed your rabbit the right food.

We’ve listed what vegetables, fruits and herbs you can feed your rabbit and we’ll discuss the importance of hay. This way you are fully informed about the right diet for your four-legged friend. Read on for more information.

We can insure rabbits for veterinary costs up to £2,000. Coverage can be per rabbit (up to three pets) or per policy. Why not get an offer?

How Much Hay Should I Feed My Rabbit?

Hay or grass should make up the majority of your rabbit’s diet at around 80-90%, it should be clean and fresh and always available.

According to the RSPCA, you should expect your furry friend to chew hay for about six to eight hours a day.

What is the best hay for my rabbit?

Alfalfa hay is the best variety for young rabbits up to seven months old. This is because it is high in calcium and protein, which aid in growth.

However, you should not feed your rabbit alfalfa hay as it gets older, as the higher calcium content can lead to kidney and urinary problems.

Switch to a grass hay like Timothy Hay or oat hay when it’s about seven months old. These are high in fiber, which is an essential part of your furry friend’s diet.

ManyPets compares rabbit insurance providers on their website. Click the link to see what you found.

Rabbits should primarily eat hay or grass

Why is hay so important for rabbits?

Hay is so important because it contains fiber that helps wear down your rabbit’s teeth, which are continuously growing at a rate of 2mm to 3mm per week.

Allowing your rabbit’s teeth to overgrow can lead to malocclusions (misaligned teeth). Dental problems like these can result in mouth ulcers, difficulty eating, and a very sad rabbit.

(You’ll need to see a vet in a situation like this – see how ExoticDirect rabbit insurance can help with that).

Eating hay and grass is better than eating kibble because rabbits have to grind the hay or grass between their molars.

In contrast, rabbits only need to crush dry food such as pellets between their teeth, which prevents teeth grinding.

Hay is also important for your rabbit’s intestines to function properly. The hay contains roughage that the intestines have to digest with difficulty.

When the gut doesn’t have enough fiber, it can’t function properly, leading to blockages such as B. intestinal stasis, can lead.

This is an uncomfortable condition for rabbits when the digestive tract slows down or stops working. Bacteria then build up and cause gas and bloating, further reducing your rabbit’s appetite.

Not only is it very uncomfortable, it can also be deadly. So keep feeding the hay!

Do you also own guinea pigs? Check out what can guinea pigs eat?

Can rabbits eat pellets?

Pellets are useful for younger rabbits when they need a diet that contains a concentration of nutrients to support growth. Make sure the pellets you buy are also high in fiber, which should be around 18%. However, the bulk of your rabbit’s diet should still be hay.

vegetables

After about three months, you can start introducing a wide range of vegetables. Introducing them individually will help you determine which are easier to digest and which are not.

You should feed your rabbit three different types of fresh vegetables every day.

What vegetables can rabbits eat?

Rabbits can eat the following vegetables:

basil

broccoli

Beetroot Greens

Dark Green Cabbage

Carrot tops and roots

cauliflower and leaves

celery

celery

coriander

Kale

zucchini

dill

fennel

mint

mark

Parsely

parsnip

Peppers – green

pumpkin

Radish greens and roots

rocket

Lettuce and lettuce (not too many) and no iceberg lettuce

spinach

spring green

sprouts

Pumpkin (any kind)

Sweet Potatoes (as a treat)

Tomatoes in small quantities

watercress

With thanks to the Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF); The Rabbit House; Peta.org.

Rabbits like carrots, but feed them sparingly as they contain sugar.

What plants can rabbits eat?

Rabbits can eat the following plants:

agrimony

Avens

apple leaves and branches

blackberry leaves

burdock

marigold

Cleaver (Goosegrass or Sticky Weed)

cornflower

common mallow

dandelion

Echinacea

goats rough

Golden Staff

hawthorn

hazel

lemon balm

Melitot

mulberry

Nasturtium

pansies

raspberry leaves

Rosebay Willowherb (Fireweed)

roses (leaves and flowers)

shepherd’s bag

strawberry green

willow leaves

yarrow

Black currant leaves

chamomile

lady balm

marigold

melilote

mulberry

Plantain (broad leaf and ribwort)

raspberry leaves

sunflowers

List taken from RWAF website

Do rabbits eat geraniums?

There is confusion as to whether rabbits should eat geraniums, with some sources saying they can and others saying they can’t. If in doubt, do not feed them to your rabbit.

What fruit can rabbits eat?

Rabbits can eat the following fruits:

apples

bananas

blackberries

blueberries

cranberries

Grapes

tangerines

mango

nectarines

orange

papaya

pears

peach

plums

pineapple

raspberries

raisins

strawberries

watermelon

You must remove all seeds from the fruit, especially apples, where the pits are poisonous.

Only feed small amounts occasionally as fruit is high in sugar. Too much can lead to dental problems and obesity.

Some fruits, like oranges, are also high in acid, which can cause stomach problems and mouth ulcers.

How often should I give my rabbit fruit?

Rabbits should only be given fruit occasionally, as it contains so much sugar that it can lead to obesity or dental problems. Small portions, once or twice or weekly should suffice.

Don’t give in when you see your rabbit eating a delicious piece of apple. Like us and other food types, it may taste fantastic, but it’s not that good for us. Remember that moderation is key.

Can rabbits eat pumpkin seeds and other seeds?

Many seeds are not toxic to rabbits, but they are high in fat, which can lead to obesity in your rabbit.

Find out which seeds and kernels to avoid when feeding your rabbit.

What herbs can rabbits eat?

Rabbits can eat the following herbs:

basil

coriander

dill

mint

Parsely

oregano

rosemary

sage

thyme

Echinacea

What can rabbits not eat?

These foods are toxic to your rabbit and can make them sick:

Potatoes, daffodils, tulips, rhubarb, lilies, mushrooms, avocado, broad beans, vetches, buttercups, kidney beans, jasmine, foxgloves and iceberg lettuce.

Iceberg lettuce can be toxic in large quantities because it contains lactucarium, a substance that can be harmful to your rabbit. In addition, light-colored lettuce contains mostly water and offers little nutritional value.

Do not feed your rabbit apple or pear pits as they contain cyanide and can be harmful to your rabbit.

Do not feed your rabbit the pits of apricots, peaches and plums as these also contain cyanide.

Why can’t you feed your rabbit grass clippings?

When grass is cut with a lawn mower, it passes near the mower’s hot engine. This heat triggers a fermentation process that can be harmful to your rabbit’s stomach.

How much water does a rabbit need?

A rabbit drinks about 10% of its body weight in water every day.

You should ensure that the water is clean, fresh and supplied in either a bowl or bottle.

If she doesn’t get enough water in her diet, she could start to suffer from dehydration and digestive problems.

Your rabbit will also get water from the vegetables it eats. So if he eats a lot of it, don’t be alarmed if he doesn’t drink a lot of water as well.

Make mealtime fun – and get moving

If you want to combine feeding time with stimulation, try hiding your rabbit’s food under toys and in empty toilet paper rolls.

Finally

Hay should make up the bulk of your rabbit’s diet – around 80-90%.

Vegetables should also be an important part of your rabbit’s diet – you should give them around three servings a day. Pellets can also be used to supplement their diet.

Fruit should only be given occasionally – once or twice a week.

Water is an essential part of your rabbit’s diet – it helps prevent dehydration and keeps their bowels moving. You should provide a constant supply of clean, fresh water that is changed daily.

Also, getting plenty of exercise should help keep your rabbit happy and healthy for many years to come.

Are you looking for rabbit insurance? Get an offer now.

Alternatively you can call us on 0345 982 5505

What fruits can rabbits eat?

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A common question is, “What fruits can rabbits eat?” That’s a good question. While there are a variety of fruits that your rabbit can safely eat, there are some that you shouldn’t feed them. There are also parts of popular fruits that could poison your rabbit. Luckily, most fruits you might grow or find at the grocery store are perfect for your bunnies.

We like to offer our rabbits fruit as a small part of their diet as it is always a good idea to offer your livestock a variety of foods to meet their nutritional needs. It’s also a lot of fun to see them excited about the possibility of treats.

Fruit in particular is a great training tool as rabbits love natural sugars. A great bonding activity is to feed your bunny fruit when you are spending time together. While most of the fresh food your rabbits eat should be leafy greens, there are several fruits you can give them that also make a nutritious treat.

Fresh fruit is also a great alternative to overly processed treats you might find at your local grocery stores. Avoid these types of treats whenever possible in favor of fresh foods full of vitamins.

Some fun rabbit facts are that in the wild, our fluffy friends will willingly enjoy any fruit they find, such as: B. Strawberries. Of course, rabbits love the natural sugar. Unfortunately, they also don’t know when to stop when it comes to fruit, so come in.

When it comes to feeding rabbits fruit, only offer it in small quantities and don’t introduce more than one variety at a time. Because of the sugar, it’s easy for your rabbit’s gastrointestinal system to become unbalanced from eating too many new foods at once.

If you’re looking to start feeding your rabbit fruit, it’s always a good idea to make sure their diet is well established, with a high-protein diet in addition to some quality hay. It’s best to only offer about 2 tablespoons of fruit for every two pounds of weight.

Offer new, fresh fruit slowly to make sure the sugar doesn’t upset his gastrointestinal tract. If your rabbit shows signs of loose stools or an upset stomach, stop feeding the treats and just offer him his regular grain and hay.

You can offer your rabbits the following fruits without hesitation:

Apples (Without stems or seeds. The seeds are poisonous.)

Bananas (without peel)

Grapes

melons

mango

papaya

Peaches (pitted)

pineapple (without peel)

Pears (no cores or stalks)

Berries like blackberries, raspberries and strawberries

Cherries (without leaves or pits, as these parts of the plant contain cyanide and are very toxic.)

Grapes and apples are particularly popular at our farm and the bunnies are very happy when they see me carrying some for them! I offer them sliced, mainly so the rabbits can chew on something that makes them feel good.

However, offer grapes and bananas very sparingly. We only offer a bunch or two a few times a week and a 1/2 inch slice of banana every few days. Both of these fruits are so sugary that they could easily upset your rabbit’s gastrointestinal tract if not provided in moderation. If you have offered a large piece of banana, you should not offer fruit for a few days.

If you choose to give dried fruit to your rabbits, keep in mind that they contain concentrated sugars. Dried fruits contain about three times as much as fresh fruit, so you should take this into account when offering them to your rabbits. As always, fresh is better and I think rabbits prefer fresh fruit over dried anyway.

We often offer fruit, but not every day because of the sugar it contains. The Humane Society of the United States advises that rabbits that are overfed fruit may turn up their noses at other, more nutritious foods, so we try to keep their intake low while still offering fruit as a treat. Finally, fruits contain many of the vitamins rabbits need.

If your goal is to raise your brood for a sustainable supply of meat, you may be wondering what to feed meat rabbits. Small amounts of fruit each week is a good idea to ensure your rabbits are getting all the vitamins they need for reproduction. At one point in our careers as rabbit breeders, our rabbits didn’t want to breed and after doing some research I found the problem was that they were probably not eating the right amount of nutrients. We made some small adjustments to her diet and haven’t had any problems since.

One idea for including fruit in your rabbit’s diet is to offer him a treat every day, such as a bun. For example, if you offer your rabbit a piece of fruit every day but one day he turns his nose up at it, you know it’s time to call the vet.

To make the enjoyment time more exciting, you can also offer a small piece of fruit mixed with a favorite herb. If you’re unsure which herbs rabbits can eat that mix well with fruit, consider dandelion leaves.

If you are wondering “What fruits can rabbits eat that have a skin?” then apples are a good choice, as are pears and melons. It’s always best to wash the skin before offering it to your rabbit. If you think the fruit has been exposed to pesticides, it’s better to remove the skins or just offer them organic, pesticide-free fruit.

It’s always a good idea to give your bunnies a treat they like. When it comes to fruit, moderation is best, and the list above will allow you to show your love for your furry friend while providing ideal nutrition.

If you’re interested in learning more about raising rabbits, then grab my free checklist, 10 Tips for Raising Healthy, Happy Rabbits!

What treats do you give your bunnies and how often do you give them? Let us know in the comments below.

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means that as an Amazon Associate, I can earn a small percentage of qualifying purchases if you make a purchase through the links at no additional cost*

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Rabbits are herbivores, but does that mean all plants are safe and healthy for them? The surprising answer is no! There are many things not to feed your rabbit that might seem perfectly healthy.

The most important part of a rabbit’s diet is fiber. They absolutely need cellulose (plant cell walls and plant fibers) to survive. Fiber is such an essential part of their diet that they have a special organ called the cecum whose sole purpose is to process all that fiber. In the cecum, the fiber is exposed to healthy bacteria and yeast, which help break down and ferment the materials.

The fermented materials are then excreted in cecotropes, which the rabbit eats to absorb all of the vitamins and fats from the fiber. It’s a delicate system that’s easily disrupted by excess sugars and starches, leading to bloating, constipation, or uncontrolled bacterial growth in the gastrointestinal tract. Click here to learn more about preventing gastrointestinal stasis in rabbits

The following is certainly not an all inclusive list of things not to feed your rabbit, just some of the most important things. If you are unsure whether a food is safe for your rabbit, it is always better to be safe. Remember that fresh hay should make up the majority of your rabbit’s diet, followed by good quality rabbit pellets (approx.

What not to feed rabbits

grains

Bread, crackers, cereal, rice…none of these are healthy for your rabbit friend. Carbohydrate-rich foods should always be avoided.

“junk food”

Chips, cookies, candy…these aren’t healthy for humans and they’re especially unhealthy for rabbits. Foods high in sugar or artificial ingredients can lead to bacterial overgrowth in your gut and unbalance your entire digestive system. It could even cause the digestive system to shut down completely, which will result in death. In particular, do not allow your rabbit to eat chocolate. While we find this a treat, it is toxic to rabbits.

Meat & Eggs

It might seem obvious since your rabbit is a herbivore, but it’s worth mentioning. Please do not feed your rabbit meat, they cannot digest it! This includes eggs and all other animal products.

dairy

Milk and dairy products like yogurt, butter, and ice cream can lead to a fatal case of enterotoxemia (a toxic overgrowth of harmful gut bacteria). They are also very high in natural sugars, which can cause dental problems. Click here to learn more about rabbit teeth care

Nuts & Nut Products

While rabbits can digest nuts and small amounts are not fatal, they are very high in fat, which can upset your rabbit’s stomach. They also offer no nutritional value to rabbits, so it’s best to just avoid them.

iceberg lettuce

This may come as a shock, but light-colored lettuce like Iceberg is high in lactucarium, which can cause liquid stools. Iceberg lettuce is also mostly water and has very little nutritional content. Stick to darker leafy greens like romaine lettuce or kale.

carrots

Another shocker as rabbits and carrots seem to go hand in hand. Carrots aren’t toxic, but they’re very high in calcium and natural sugars, which are bad for gut health and teeth. Carrots should only be given as a rare treat. However, the leafy carrot tops are great for rabbits, can be eaten daily and they love them!

nightshade family

For most animals, eating plants from the nightshade family (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, to name a few) can be poisonous, and rabbits are no exception. You should not eat the leaves or stems. You should also avoid feeding them raw potatoes or peels. Boiled potatoes are non-toxic but high in carbohydrates and starches, so not a healthy treat. Tomatoes and peppers themselves can be fed well in small quantities.

rhubarb

Rhubarb leaves contain dangerously high levels of oxalic acid, which can cause severe kidney damage and death. All parts of rhubarb & rhubarb plants should be avoided.

avocado

All parts of the avocado are poisonous to rabbits. The skin, leaves, and seeds are the most toxic parts, but the actual “flesh” of the avocado is also toxic.

Peas

Non-toxic, but high in sugar and phosphorus, they’re no treat for rabbit lovers.

cauliflower

Again, it’s not poisonous, but cauliflower can gas up your bunnies and make them bloated and uncomfortable.

Corn

Rabbits cannot digest the corn husk (the part that surrounds the corn) and could lodge in the gastrointestinal tract.

apple seeds

Apples themselves are a good occasional treat, but make sure the seeds have been removed as they can contain levels of arsenic, which are toxic to a tiny bunny’s body.

So what can you feed your rabbit?

While hay and rabbit pellets should make up a large part of your rabbit’s diet, fresh vegetables should also be provided daily (about 1-2 cups per rabbit per day). Click here to learn more about feeding woolly rabbits. Some great everyday options include:

*Rosella or dark leaf lettuce

*Carrot tops

*Kale

*Kale

*Celery & celery leaves

*Asparagus

*to squeeze

*cucumbers

*Broccoli leaves

* Pak choi

* Clover or dandelion leaves and flowers

*Mustard green

*Herbs like basil, cilantro, dill, mint, parsley, or watercress

For special treats in between, you can offer fruit such as apples, bananas, blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, pears, mangoes, papaya, peaches, pineapples or grapes.