What Can Rabbits Eat
Rabbits are delightful, gentle creatures that thrive on food that primarily consists of hay, fresh vegetables, and a few fruits. Below, we explore a variety of veggies your rabbit can enjoy, along with tips on frequency and portion sizes to ensure a healthy, happy bunny.
What Do Rabbits Eat?
Rabbit food is comprised of a balanced diet that includes plenty of hay, which should make up about 80% of their daily intake. Fresh vegetables and leafy greens are also essential, providing important nutrients and helping to keep their digestive system in tip-top shape. Fresh water should always be available, and treats like fruits should be given sparingly.
Can rabbits eat celery?
Yes, rabbits can eat celery. Celery is low in calories and high in water content, making it a hydrating snack for rabbits. However, due to its fibrous texture, it’s important to cut the celery into small pieces to prevent choking. Celery can be offered a few times a week.
Can rabbits eat celery leaves?
Absolutely, rabbits can eat celery leaves. In fact, the leaves are often preferred by rabbits over the stalks. Celery leaves are packed with nutrients and can be given alongside the stalks as a healthy treat.
Can rabbits eat asparagus?
Asparagus is safe for rabbits and can be offered as an occasional treat. It’s rich in vitamins and fibre but can have a strong taste that some rabbits might not enjoy. Offer asparagus once or twice a week.
Can rabbits eat bok choy?
Bok choy is a great option for rabbits. It’s low in oxalates and high in vitamins A and C. You can offer bok choy a few times a week as part of a balanced diet.
Can rabbits eat zucchini?
Yes, zucchini is safe for rabbits and can be given regularly. It’s low in calories and contains plenty of water, making it a refreshing snack during the warmer months.
Can rabbits eat rocket?
Rocket, or arugula, is safe and nutritious for rabbits. It’s high in calcium and can be given regularly as part of a varied diet. Rabbits usually enjoy the peppery taste of rocket.
Can rabbits eat green beans?
Green beans are a healthy choice for rabbits. They are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a good option for a regular snack. Green beans can be given a few times a week.
Can rabbits eat lettuce?
Rabbits can eat certain types of lettuce, but not all. Romaine lettuce is a good choice as it’s high in nutrients, while iceberg lettuce should be avoided due to its low nutritional value and high water content, which can cause diarrhoea. Romaine lettuce can be offered daily as part of your rabbit’s leafy green intake.
Can rabbits eat silverbeet?
Rabbits can eat silverbeet, but only in small amounts. Silverbeet contains oxalates, which can contribute to the formation of kidney stones if consumed in large quantities. It’s best to rotate silverbeet with other leafy greens and offer it as a treat once or twice a week.
Can rabbits eat kale?
Kale is a superfood for rabbits, packed with vitamins A, C, and K. However, like spinach, it’s high in oxalates, so it should be given in moderation. Kale can be part of your rabbit’s diet a few times a week.
Can rabbits eat spinach?
Spinach is safe for rabbits but should be given sparingly. Spinach is high in oxalates, which can cause health issues if fed too frequently. Offering spinach once a week in small portions is a good way to include it in your rabbit’s diet without overdoing it.
Can rabbits eat cabbage?
Yes, rabbits can eat cabbage, but it should be given in moderation. Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, as well as fibre, which are beneficial for your rabbit. However, too much cabbage can cause gas and bloating, so it’s best to offer it as an occasional treat rather than a daily staple.
Can rabbits eat Brussels sprouts?
Brussel sprouts are safe for rabbits in small quantities. They are high in fibre and vitamins but can cause gas if fed in large amounts. Offer brussel sprouts once or twice a week.
Can rabbits eat broccoli?
Broccoli is safe for rabbits in small amounts. Both the florets and the leaves are nutritious, providing vitamins and fibre. However, broccoli can cause gas, so it’s best to introduce it gradually and only offer it a few times a week.
Can rabbits eat cauliflower?
Yes, rabbits can eat cauliflower, but like broccoli, it should be given in moderation due to its gas-producing properties. Cauliflower can be a tasty treat a couple of times a week.
Can rabbits eat cauliflower leaves?
Cauliflower leaves are safe for rabbits and can be given along with the florets. They are often more palatable for rabbits and provide a good source of fibre.
Can rabbits eat pumpkin?
Pumpkin is safe for rabbits but should be given in moderation due to its high sugar content. Small pieces of pumpkin can be offered as a treat once a week.
Can rabbits eat beetroot?
Beetroot is safe for rabbits, but it should be given in small quantities due to its sugar content. The greens of the beetroot are more nutritious and can be offered more frequently, but the root itself should be an occasional treat.
Can rabbits eat peas?
Peas can be given to rabbits in moderation. They are high in protein and fibre but also contain sugar, so they should be an occasional treat rather than a regular part of the diet.
Can rabbits eat corn?
Rabbits should not eat corn. Corn is high in sugar and can cause digestive issues, including gastrointestinal stasis, which can be life-threatening. It’s best to avoid corn altogether.
Can rabbits eat leek?
Leeks should be avoided in a rabbit’s diet. They belong to the allium family, which can be toxic to rabbits and cause serious health problems.
Can rabbits eat mushrooms?
Mushrooms are not safe for rabbits and should be avoided. Many types of mushrooms contain toxins that can be harmful or even fatal to rabbits.
What herbs can rabbits eat?
Herbs can be a delightful addition to a rabbit’s diet, offering both flavour and nutrition. However, not all herbs are safe, so it’s important to know which ones are beneficial.
Can rabbits eat parsley?
Yes, rabbits can eat parsley. It’s rich in vitamins A and C and can be offered regularly. Parsley also helps with digestion and can be a great addition to your rabbit’s leafy green rotation.
Can rabbits eat coriander?
Coriander is safe for rabbits and can be given frequently. It’s a good source of vitamins and can add variety to your rabbit’s diet.
Can rabbits eat dandelions?
Dandelions are a favourite among rabbits. Both the leaves and flowers are safe and nutritious, providing vitamins A, C, and K. Dandelions can be offered regularly, especially during the spring when they are plentiful.
Can rabbits eat mint?
Yes, rabbits can eat mint. Mint is refreshing and can help with digestion. It can be offered a few times a week, but not too often as the strong flavour may be overwhelming for some rabbits.
Can rabbits eat rosemary?
Yes, rabbits can eat rosemary, but it should be given in moderation. Rosemary is a safe herb for rabbits and can be a fragrant and tasty addition to their diet. However, because it has a strong flavour, it’s best to offer it sparingly. You can include rosemary as part of a mixed herb treat a few times a week, ensuring a balanced diet for your rabbit.
FAQs for Best Vegetables for Rabbits
What Vegetables Can Rabbits Eat Daily?
Rabbits can eat a variety of vegetables daily, including romaine lettuce, rocket, bok choy, and green beans. It’s important to rotate the vegetables to ensure a balanced intake of nutrients and to avoid any potential build-up of harmful compounds like oxalates.
Best Vegetables for Rabbits?
The best vegetables for rabbits include leafy greens like romaine lettuce, rocket, and bok choy, as well as non-leafy vegetables like zucchini and green beans. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals while supporting a healthy digestive system.
Can Rabbits Eat Basil Flowers?
Yes, rabbits can eat basil flowers. Basil is safe for rabbits and can be offered regularly, including the flowers, which add a bit of variety to their diet.
What flowers can rabbits eat?
Rabbits can safely eat a variety of flowers, including dandelions, marigolds, and nasturtiums. These flowers are not only safe but also provide a tasty and nutritious treat for your rabbit. Always ensure that the flowers are free from pesticides and chemicals before offering them to your rabbit.