Your rabbit needs constant access to fresh, clean water and a variety of foods, as they like to graze throughout the day, unlike dogs, for example, who tend to eat their meals at particular times.
Wild rabbits are herbivores that eat a grass- and plant-based diet, and what you feed your pet rabbit should mimic this as much as possible.
Your rabbit's basic food requirements are unlimited fresh hay, leafy greens, and a small amount of high-fibre pellets.
Hay can be placed in a suitable feeder or hay rack in your bunny's enclosure to minimise mess and wastage. Pellets are best placed in a durable bowl, as your rabbit may chew on a plastic one.
Rabbit food guide: What's safe and potentially dangerous?
You may also like to provide your bunny with a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. Below is a guide to what rabbits can safely eat and which foods should be avoided.
What can rabbits eat?
Rabbits thrive on a diet rich in fresh hay, which provides essential fibre for digestion and dental health. Hay should make up around 80% of an adult rabbit's diet, and they should always have unlimited access to it.
Leafy greens like cos lettuce, bok choy, and rocket offer important nutrients, while vegetables such as capsicum, broccoli, and celery provide variety and additional vitamins.
When it comes to fruits, rabbits can enjoy treats like apples (without seeds), strawberries, and blueberries in moderation. However, it's important to avoid feeding rabbits foods high in sugar, fat, and carbohydrates, as well as toxic substances like chocolate and onions.
Safe food for rabbits to eat
| Safe to feed regularly | Feed occasionally or in moderation | Do not feed |
|---|---|---|
| Cos lettuce | Apples (without seeds) | Chocolate |
| Rocket | Bananas | Onions and garlic |
| Cucumber | Carrots | Rhubarb |
| Bok choy | Strawberries | Raw beans |
| Celery | Raspberries | Nuts and seeds |
| Dandelion greens | Oranges | Bread and biscuits |
| Basil | Spinach* | Corn |
| Coriander | Parsley* | Muesli-style rabbit mixes |
| Capsicum | Broccoli and cauliflower* | Lawn clippings |
| Endive | Cabbage and Brussels sprouts* | Avocado |
Some vegetables may cause gas or digestive discomfort in certain rabbits, while spinach and parsley may need to be limited for rabbits with urinary health issues. Always introduce new foods gradually and speak to your vet if you're unsure.
Ensure all fresh fruit and vegetables are thoroughly washed before serving, and remove any uneaten food before it spoils.
Hay and grass for rabbits
Pet rabbits should have access to an unlimited supply of fresh, good-quality hay. Containing high levels of fibre, hay is essential for your bunny's digestive health and helps keep their digestive system functioning properly.
Rabbits also like to graze, and nibbling hay reduces boredom by keeping them occupied for long periods. What's more, rabbits' teeth grow continuously throughout their lives, and eating hay helps wear them down naturally.
Store hay in a dry place and put it in a rack or suitable feeder to keep it clean and separate from any soiled bedding.
Your rabbit may also enjoy some fresh grass and suitable weeds. However, make sure they haven't been sprayed with chemicals or contaminated by other animals. Never feed your bunny lawnmower clippings or grass from roadside areas.
Pellets and commercial rabbit food
Commercially prepared rabbit foods are quick and easy to feed, but they should always be offered alongside plenty of fresh hay and suitable leafy greens.
Choose high-quality, nutritionally balanced rabbit pellets that are rich in fibre. These can help supplement your rabbit's diet with additional vitamins and minerals, but should only be fed in small, measured quantities.
Avoid muesli-style rabbit mixes containing grains, seeds, and colourful pieces. Rabbits often pick out their favourite ingredients and leave behind the healthier parts, which can lead to nutritional imbalances.
Young, growing rabbits may have different nutritional requirements from adults, so it's important to choose an age-appropriate food and follow the recommended feeding guidelines.
Treats for rabbits
Rabbits are social animals, so offering the occasional treat is a great way to establish a close bond with your pet. Treats can also be useful when training your rabbit and encouraging positive behaviours.
Small pieces of suitable fresh fruit or vegetables make excellent occasional rewards. You can also offer rabbit-safe herbs, such as basil and coriander, as tasty alternatives.
Avoid feeding your rabbit treats containing nuts, seeds, added sugar, or dairy products. Human snack foods such as biscuits, potato chips, and popcorn should also be avoided, as they aren't suitable for a rabbit's sensitive digestive system.
Remember, treats should only make up a very small part of your rabbit's diet. Too many treats can contribute to weight gain and discourage your bunny from eating enough hay.
Keeping your rabbit hydrated
Provide your bunny with fresh, clean water at all times.
A sturdy, shallow water bowl is generally a good option, as drinking from a bowl is a natural behaviour for rabbits and can encourage them to drink more. Choose a heavy bowl that can't be easily tipped over.
Water bottles with metal spouts can also be used, but make sure they're functioning correctly and aren't restricting your rabbit's water intake.
Change your rabbit's water daily and clean their bowl or bottle regularly to prevent the buildup of bacteria.
Your rabbit loves to chew!
Rabbit teeth grow continuously, so your bunny will want to chew regularly to keep them at a suitable length. They might chew on their hutch or bedding, or even shoes and carpet if they live indoors!
A great way to minimise damage to your rabbit's hutch and support their dental health is to provide a variety of safe toys and materials to gnaw on.
Alongside unlimited fresh hay, you can offer plain cardboard toilet rolls, untreated willow toys, and suitable apple-tree branches, provided they're clean and free from pesticides.
Gnawing blocks and other rabbit-safe chew toys are also available from pet stores.
Establishing a feeding routine
Although rabbits like to graze throughout the day, it's a good idea to establish a regular feeding routine by offering fresh greens and measured portions of pellets at similar times each day.
If you've stored vegetables in the fridge, allow them to reach room temperature before serving. Use a sturdy food bowl that can't be tipped over easily.
Rabbits have sensitive digestive systems, so introduce new foods gradually and one at a time. Sudden dietary changes can cause digestive upsets.
FAQs
What are the best vegetables for rabbits to munch on?
Rabbits can enjoy a variety of vegetables, including leafy greens like cos lettuce, bok choy, rocket, and dandelion greens. Other suitable options include capsicum, celery, and broccoli. It's essential to introduce new vegetables gradually to prevent digestive issues.
Which fruits are safe and healthy for rabbits to consume?
Rabbits can enjoy small portions of fruits like apples (without seeds), strawberries, blueberries, and bananas. However, fruits should be given sparingly due to their sugar content, and any seeds, pits, or stones should be removed before serving.
How can I ensure my rabbit's diet is balanced and nutritionally sound?
A balanced adult rabbit diet should consist primarily of unlimited fresh hay, supplemented with suitable leafy greens and small quantities of high-fibre pellets. Fresh water should always be available, and fruits and other treats should only be offered occasionally.
Why is my rabbit eating its own droppings?
There's no need to be concerned if you notice your rabbit eating certain droppings. This is completely normal behaviour!
Rabbits produce special, soft droppings called caecotrophs, which are rich in essential nutrients. They usually eat these directly from their bottom, allowing their digestive system to absorb nutrients that weren't fully extracted the first time.
This is an important part of a rabbit's normal digestive process and shouldn't be discouraged.
Want to give your rabbit the nutrition they need to thrive? Explore Petstock's range of rabbit food to keep your bunny happy, healthy, and well-fed.