Vegetables That Are Okay for Bunnies (in Small Amounts)
- Carrot
- Beet tops (not the root of the beet, which is the part humans normally consume)
- Watercress
- Sprouts
- Parsley
- Wheatgrass
Full Answer
How do you feed a rabbit?
Feeding a rabbit is fairly simple, but there are a few important rules you need to follow. To be healthy a rabbit needs large quantities of hay or growing grass. Rabbits also do well on additional quantities of fresh vegetables or green plants and limited amounts of dry rabbit food that you can buy from a pet store.
What kind of hay should I Feed my Rabbit?
You can feed your bunnies either one type or a mixture of different grass hays. Buy the freshest hay possible and check for the presence of mold or dust, which could make your rabbit sick.
What are the healthiest treats for rabbits?
Healthy treats for your bunny include small pieces of fresh or freeze-dried fruit (the approved fruits listed above); natural, unprocessed mixes that include hay and dried flowers (the approved flowers listed above); and Oxbow brand rabbit treats. Always read the ingredient list on store-bought treats because not all of them are safe for bunnies.
What kind of vegetables can you feed a bunny?
Vegetables and plants to give sparingly (one or two times a week) to a bunny: 1 Broccoli (stems and leaves only) 2 Carrots 3 Chard 4 Clover 5 Collard greens 6 Dandelion greens (pesticide-free) 7 Flowers: calendula, chamomile, daylily, dianthus, English daisy, hibiscus, honeysuckle, marigold, nasturtium, pansy,... 8 Kale 9 Spinach More ...
What are good foods to feed a bunny?
Green, leafy vegetables are good for bunnies. You can include arugula, basil, bok choy, broccoli leaves, carrot tops, celery, clover, collard greens, dandelion leaves, dill, endive, kale in small quantities, romaine and dark leaf lettuce, mint, mustard greens, parsley, and watercress.
What do you feed an anorexic rabbit?
Tasty fresh greens should always be offered to the patient. Good quality grass hay is also needed. Anorexic rabbits often need assisted feeding in the initial phases of the illness.
How long can a rabbit survive with GI stasis?
Treatment of GI stasis varies depending on severity and underlying causes. Recovery is often slow and may take several days to weeks. Fluid therapy — Many affected rabbits are dehydrated or suffering from electrolyte imbalances. Simethicone — This medication helps to reduce the amount of gas in the digestive tract.
What are 3 things rabbits eat?
They require a balanced diet of hay, fresh veggies and fruit, and a few pellets. Rabbits have very sensitive digestive tracts, so the transition to hay or pellets, or the introduction of new fruits and vegetables, must be done gradually to allow the rabbit's system to adjust.
How can I stimulate my rabbit's appetite?
Appetite stimulants high in fiber such as parsley, kale, and carrot tops are ideal for your pet. It is likely your pet will require syringe feeding, this will often be performed by a veterinary assistant or nurse. Ideal foods for syringe feeding are pureed pellets with water, pumpkin or banana.
How can I get my bunny to gain weight?
These foods will help them gain at a reasonable rate for their breed and age.Hay. Timothy hay should always be offered to your rabbits. ... 2. Fruits. Fruit is calorie-dense and loaded with nutrients. ... Rolled Oats. ... Root Vegetables. ... Black Oil Sunflower Seeds. ... Nuts.
Can rabbits recover from GI stasis on their own?
Even when you get them to eat and they produce droppings again, you should still keep a very close eye on them. Full recovery from a bout of GI Stasis can take days, sometimes weeks.
How much pineapple juice should I give my rabbit?
Regular house-pet rabbits only need around 2 grams of sugar in their diet per day. Since there are around 10 grams of sugar in every 100 grams of pineapple, your rabbits should have only have around 20 grams of pineapple, maximum, in a day.
Can I give my rabbit olive oil for constipation?
Encourage the rabbit to exercise, and give very small doses of olive oil orally which can help with mild constipation. The best way to avoid this often deadly condition is to ensure your bunny has a diet rich in fibre, access to plenty of clean, fresh water and a varied assortment of vegetables.
Can bunnies eat bananas?
Fresh, raw bananas can be consumed safely, but only in moderation. While bananas are rich in water, potassium, vitamin B6 and antioxidants, they're also packed with starch and sugar. Too much sugar and starch in a rabbit's diet can lead to digestive problems, an upset stomach, gas and diarrhea.
Are carrots bad for rabbits?
Reality: carrots shouldn't be a main source of food. Rabbits don't naturally eat root vegetables or fruit. Carrots and fruit are high in sugar and should only be fed in small amounts as occasional treats. Rabbits need mainly hay and/or grass, some leafy greens and a small, measured amount of pellets.
What is toxic to rabbits?
Apples and pears are the most notorious examples, but the pits from apricots, peaches, plums, and mangos also contain cyanide, as do cherry pits. While the amount of cyanide contained in fruit seeds and pits is generally scant, it is best to avoid feeding them to rabbits altogether.
What causes rabbit anorexia?
In pet rabbits, the most usual causes are stress or inappropriate antibiotic therapy. Chronic renal disease is a cause of anorexia and can be caused by Encephalitozoon cuniculi, neoplasia, interstitial nephritis or nephrotoxicity. Nephrolithiasis is common.
What happens if your bunny doesn't eat?
If they stop eating, their digestion comes to a halt and the rabbit will start to go into Gastrointestinal (GI) Stasis. If left untreated, the condition can easily end up being fatal in rabbits. They need to go see a vet as soon as possible so that they can receive medication to help get their digestion moving again.
What are the signs of a rabbit dying?
0:363:375 Signs Your Rabbit is Dying - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipOther signs to indicate a rabbit is about to die are inactivity and apathy. Something which may alsoMoreOther signs to indicate a rabbit is about to die are inactivity and apathy. Something which may also occur when they are under stress.
How do you treat GI Stasis in rabbits?
How will my veterinarian treat GI stasis?fluid therapy for rehydration.nutritional support (syringe feeding if not eating)antibiotic(s) (if there is an underlying bacterial infection)motility modifying drugs to enhance movement of food through the stomach and intestines.pain relievers.anti-inflammatory medications.
What do bunnies eat?
They require a balanced diet of hay, fresh veggies and fruit, and a few pellets. Rabbits have very sensitive digestive tracts, so the transition to hay or pellets, or the introduction of new fruits and vegetables, must be done gradually to allow the rabbit’s system to adjust.
What percentage of rabbits eat hay?
The bottom of a rabbit food pyramid would contain long-stemmed fiber, in the form of hay, which makes up 80 to 90 percent of a rabbit’s diet. As grazing animals, rabbits need to have an unlimited supply of fresh hay daily.
Can rabbits eat vegetables?
Rabbits count vegetables and herbs among their favorite foods. Most greens found in a supermarket are safe for rabbits, with a few limitations and exceptions. (See the list of foods to avoid below.)
Rules to Avoid Rabbit Diarrhoea
Rabbits are herbivores. Think of your rabbit as a strict vegan, and never give your rabbit any meat or dairy products of any kind, they will make your rabbit ill. Diarrhoea can be very dangerous to rabbits, so it’s important to follow four simple rules that avoid upset tummies.
Change Rabbit Food Gradually
When you first bring your rabbit home, feeding is very easy. For the first 48 hours, just give your rabbit lots of nice fresh hay, and a little of whatever dry food they were being fed on previously. We’ll look at exactly how much dry food to give in a moment.
Feed Mainly Hay or Growing Grass to Rabbits
Hay should comprise the majority of your rabbit’s diet. The exception would be if you are able to graze your rabbits on pasture. As most people keep their rabbits indoors, it’s hay that they need. And hay needs to be at least 80% of an indoor or caged rabbit’s diet.
Feeding Vegetables To Rabbits
Introduce one safe veggie at a time. When you bring a new rabbit home, I suggest you give a piece of cabbage or bok choy leaf, not much bigger than your thumbnail, or at most 1 X 1 inch, on day 1. Increase the quantities each day, over the next week.
Safe Veggies for Rabbits
Some plants are toxic to rabbits and some, such as iceberg lettuce can cause diarrhoea. But you can share the following basic green veg that many of us have in our kitchens, with your rabbit
Root Vegetables for Rabbits
You can also feed small quantities of some root vegetables such as carrots and parsnips, as treats. They are very sweet and more of a treat than a necessity, so not too much of these unless your rabbit needs to put on weight.
The Importance of Hay for Rabbits
Did you know that rabbits can actually survive and thrive on good quality hay alone? Good hay contains everything a rabbit needs in terms of nutrients but also has two other important roles. Hay helps to keep your rabbits teeth and intestinal tract in good working order. Let’s take the teeth part first
What should a baby bunny eat?
For the first seven weeks of life, a baby rabbit’s diet should consist of mostly its mother’s milk, according to the House Rabbit Society, a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing abandoned rabbits and educating the public on rabbit care.
What do rabbits eat?
The answer is simple. Rabbits thrive on high-fiber diets rich in grass hays including timothy, brome and orchardgrass hay. Those new to rabbit ownership may think the big bags of pellets for sale at the local pet store are all a rabbit should eat.
How old should rabbits be to eat alfalfa?
You should phase out alfalfa at around four to five months old. Around six months, slowly start swapping out alfalfa in favor of grass hays and ease up on the pellets. Adult rabbits should eat around 1/4 cup of pellets per day for every five pounds of weight they have, according to Helmer.
How much fiber is in hay pellets?
For pellets, the House Rabbit Society advises you look for brands that contain at least 18 percent fiber.
What are the most dangerous foods for rabbits?
The most problematic foods for rabbits, according to Helmer, include foods that have a high amount of sugar and foods that have a high amount of carbohydrates, as these items throw off the balance of the bacteria in their gastrointestinal tracts.
Do rabbit pellets have fiber?
Instead, the pellets are more like a rabbit multivitamin, providing supplement al minerals, protein and fiber. “Pellets are far too rich to make up the bulk of [a rabbit’s] diet,” said Dr. Peter Helmer, a specialist in small mammals at BluePearl Veterinary Partners in Clearwater, FL.
Can rabbits eat alfalfa hay?
While baby rabbits (which are called kits) thrive on the protein and calcium-rich alfalfa hays, adult rabbits need something a bit more substantial. “It’s like feeding a dog puppy food,” Helmer said. Alfalfa hay is higher in calcium and protein than grass hay, which is ideal for growing rabbits but too rich for adults.
What is the best food for a bunny?
Green Is Good. One of the best fresh foods you can give your bunny is green, leafy vegetables. It's important to use rot-free, thoroughly washed items. Offer three different types each day, around a cup of greens for every three pounds of rabbit. Here are some excellent suggestions.
How long should I feed my rabbit pellets?
1–3 months: Babies suckle until seven weeks old, but should have access to pellets from around four weeks, in small amounts. 4–7 months: Unlimited pellets.
Why is water important for rabbits?
In the case of rabbits, it's very important that they have fresh water available at all times. Without it, they die very quickly, especially during hot weather or when the rabbit is very active.
Is fruit good for pets?
Fruit is not food. View it as a snack that should be sparingly given. The sugars they contain are natural, but they're still not good for your pet. Don't give more than a tablespoon's worth and don't give it every day. Wash fruit thoroughly, remove all peels and seeds, especially from apples (apple seeds are toxic).
Do bunnies need fiber?
Fiber Is Essential. Rabbits are natural grazers that need a nutritious high-fiber diet. Both this natural behaviour and need can be whacked with one stone—grass hay. Your bunny should have access to this food at all times. There are several types available. Mixed orchid grass.
Can rabbits eat hay?
Hay, fresh foods and water are nutritionally sufficient. When a rabbit enjoys a balanced diet, it doesn't need supplements. Adding them could lead your pet to overdose on certain vitamins and minerals, leading to dangerous illness. You should also avoid these toxic foods. Anything high in carbohydrates, starch and fat.
Is rabbit a herbivore?
Your rabbit is an herbivore. Herbivores are animals that eat plant material. No chicken schnitzel for this customer! A correct diet has freshness and variety. Your favourite ball of fluff needs several items from the supermarket's fruit and vegetable section, minerals, vitamins, fiber and water.
What to feed bunnies?
Dark leafy options such as kale, spinach, parsley, cilantro, basil, carrots, dandelion greens, mustard greens and romaine lettuce are all safe to feed. You should feed your bunny fruits sparingly as the high sugar content can give them an upset stomach. Favorite fruits are bananas and strawberries.
What to feed a 3 month old bunny?
From 3 weeks to 6 months old, you can feed bunnies either Timothy (1st, 2nd or 3rd cut, but young and healthy bunnies typically eat 2nd cut), Orchard, Oat and Alfalfa hay.
What is a small pet select rabbit pellet?
Small Pet Select’s rabbit pellets are our pellets of choice. There is only one type, so no need to choose between varieties. Again, like the hay, their pellets are much greener and fresher compared to the dry or crumbly, brown and older looking pellets you often find in pet stores.
How much water does a Holland Lop bunny drink?
A four pound bunny (a full size Holland Lop) usually drinks about a cup of water per day, although sometimes more if the weather is hot. Drinking less than a cup can be normal too, it’s any drastic change in your bunny’s water consumption that matters and can signal sickness.
What are some good treats for bunnies?
Other treats. Other foods that bunnies enjoy which are healthy treats include old fashioned oats. They also enjoy pumpkin seeds which also have the added benefit of being a natural dewormer. Small Pet Select has a wonderful selection of natural and healthy treats.
How long does it take for a rabbit to die from diarrhea?
Diarrhea in rabbits signals a serious problem which can be fatal in babies in a matter of 12-24 hours. You should seek medical help from your rabbit savvy vet as soon as possible.
Is alfalfa hay good for bunnies?
Alfalfa hay is much higher in protein and calcium than other species of hay. While it was perfect for when your bunny was working hard to grow into an adult and needed the extra nutrients, it’s not necessary when fully grown and can be harmful if they consume too much of it.
What to feed baby rabbits without a mother?
You can feed baby rabbits without a mother with a milk replacer. But since they need more nutrients and fats, this must be mixed with goat milk. As well as heavy cream and colostrum. Then as they grow older, start offering them cecotropes and solid food. Like pellets, alfalfa hay, and leafy greens.
Can a baby rabbit survive without milk?
A baby rabbit won’t survive without milk. At age 0 to 3 weeks old, it’ll be the sole part of their diet. So it’s their only way to get the nutrients and energy they need to live longer. And even though they’re already eating solid food at 6 to 8 weeks old, they still need milk for more nourishment.
People also ask
Baby rabbits can go without nursing for up to 3 to 4 days. But since they don’t get any food, they’ll get weaker as days pass by. And this could lead to a slow death.
What do rabbits eat in the winter?
When food is scarce in the winter, rabbits may resort to eating the bark off of bushes or trees.
What do rabbits need to survive in the winter?
In the winter, when plant life is scarce, wild rabbits need to be a lot more creative in order to survive. The rabbits need to compete for limited resources such as bark, twigs, and evergreen needles from trees and shrubbery that live through the winter. This is always a time of year that is most difficult for rabbits and results in the death ...
How to help wild rabbits survive?
You can help wild rabbits have food resources by planting shrubs and greenery that will live through the winter . This will make more resources available while also working with a wild rabbit’s natural foraging instincts. You can also grow plants year round to give wild rabbits more nutritious options.
How to tell if a rabbit is relaxed?
7 Signs of a Relaxed Rabbit. It’s easy to tell when a rabbit is active when they zoom and binky around the room, but that’s not the only way to know your rabbit is happy and content in your home. You can watch your rabbit's... Continue Reading.
Can rabbits eat sunflower seeds?
Most seeds and nuts are not great for a rabbit’s digestion. There are some exceptions, such as sunflower seeds, but for the most part you want to avoid setting these out where wild rabbits can eat them. Even though birdseed is not good for rabbits, they will probably try to eat it anyway if they find it available.
Can rabbits eat strawberries?
Leftover herbs, strawberry or carrot tops, or the trimmed ends of many different fruits and vegetables are safe for wild rabbits to eat. Instead of tossing these leftovers in the garbage, you put them outside for the rabbits. But try not to make this a daily habit.
Can rabbits eat cooked food?
Most wild rabbits won’t touch cooked food, but it’s best to avoid making it available to them at all. Cooked food, even if it is all plant based, is not good for a rabbit’s digestion.
