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What Can Rabbits Eat?

Written by Antoinet |

A healthy and happy rabbit starts with the right nutrition. Did you know that an improper diet can lead to dental issues, digestive problems, and even illness? By providing the correct diet for your rabbits, you can prevent many of these issues. But what can they eat and what should be avoided? In this article, you’ll discover everything about a well-balanced diet for rabbits, from tasty hay and fresh vegetables to herbs and responsible treats.

Rabbits are herbivores, meaning they are plant-eaters. They have a sensitive digestive system that needs to keep moving continuously. A well-balanced diet plays a vital role in the health and well-being of rabbits. Without proper nutrition, rabbits can easily suffer from problems such as abdominal pain, dental abnormalities, gas buildup in the intestines, constipation, and even a complete halt in eating and producing droppings. These issues can be very serious—and even life-threatening for rabbits. That’s why prevention is so important. But what exactly is a healthy diet for rabbits, and how can you make sure they get everything they need?

By understanding how a rabbit’s digestive system works and what nutrients they require, you can easily create a complete and healthy diet for them.

Healthy Products for Your Rabbits

How Does a Rabbit’s Digestive System Work?

A rabbit’s digestive system is specially adapted to process high-fiber food like grass and hay as efficiently as possible. Rabbits are herbivores and have a unique intestinal system that functions differently from that of many other animals. Digestion begins in the mouth, where they quickly grind their food with their teeth. The food is then swallowed into the stomach, where it is mixed with digestive juices. From the stomach, it moves into the small intestine, where important nutrients are absorbed.

What makes rabbits unique is how they process fiber. Most of their food eventually ends up in the large intestine and the cecum, a large fermentation chamber where bacteria help break down the fiber. This produces nutrients the rabbit would otherwise not be able to use. Some of these valuable substances are excreted as soft droppings, also known as cecotropes. Rabbits re-ingest these droppings directly, allowing them to digest the nutrients a second time for maximum absorption.

What Can Rabbits Eat?

Because a rabbit’s digestive system must stay in constant motion, it’s essential that they receive the right type of food. Too little fiber or too much sugar can disrupt their digestion and lead to serious health issues. That’s why a proper diet for rabbits mainly consists of hay, supplemented with leafy greens and a small portion of pellets. Understanding how their digestion works helps you make the best nutritional choices to keep your rabbit healthy and content.

The ideal diet for your rabbit consists of:

  • 80–90% hay, always available and forming the base of their diet
  • 10–15% vegetables and fresh herbs
  • 5% pellets
  • Up to 5% snacks, fruit, and carrot, as occasional treats only

What Type of Hay Is Best for Rabbits?

There are several types of hay that rabbits can eat, including timothy hay, meadow hay, grass hay, herbal hay, and alfalfa hay. Timothy hay is the most suitable for adult rabbits because it is high in fiber and low in protein. Grass hay is also a good choice for adults, while alfalfa hay is more appropriate for young rabbits or rabbits that need extra energy. Herbal hay contains a mix of grasses and herbs and can be offered as a supplement.

You can alternate between different types of hay depending on your rabbits’ preferences and nutritional needs. It’s important to observe what your rabbits enjoy most and to provide a varied diet that supports their digestion. This may mean switching hay types from time to time to ensure they continue eating enough.

Introducing Vegetables and Fruit

Rabbits need fresh vegetables daily to complete their diet, but not all vegetables are suitable. Vegetables such as endive, chicory, carrot tops, and celery are very good for rabbits. However, avoid vegetables like onion, leek, garlic, and potatoes, as these can be harmful. It’s important to offer variety to ensure a healthy and balanced diet. To help you determine which vegetables are safe, we’ve created a comprehensive list. You’ll find more information in the dropdown menu at the bottom of this page.

Introduce new vegetables slowly so that your rabbit’s digestive system has time to adjust, and to prevent issues like diarrhea. Start offering a variety of vegetables early in life so they get used to a diverse diet. This not only helps keep them healthy but also makes them less picky eaters. Fruits like apple, strawberry, and pear can be given as treats but only in moderation due to their high sugar content.

What Type of Pellets Are Best for Your Rabbits?

When choosing pellets for your rabbit, it’s important to pay attention to the composition, as rabbits require a diet that is high in fiber and low in sugars. Certain pellets are specifically formulated to support rabbit health, especially their digestion. Good-quality pellets contain no artificial colorings or preservatives and are based on natural ingredients like hay and herbs. These pellets are uniform in appearance and do not include muesli or bits of fruit. Good examples of basic nutrition include pellets from Science Selective and Bunny Nature.

Mixed feeds are not recommended because rabbits often pick out only the tastiest parts, such as seeds, and miss out on essential nutrients. Additionally, seeds and grains can lead to obesity and digestive issues.

Supplements for Your Rabbit’s Diet

Dried herbs are a tasty and healthy addition to your rabbit’s diet. They are packed with nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, and add variety. Safe and popular herbs for rabbits include parsley, dandelion leaves, plantain, chamomile, and nettle.

Always introduce new herbs slowly to avoid digestive problems, and observe how your rabbit responds to them. Sprinkle a small amount of dried herbs over their hay or food bowl as a flavorful and nutritious treat. A daily amount of 5 to 10 grams per rabbit is usually sufficient, depending on the size of your rabbit.

If you want to give a snack occasionally, always choose a healthy option, such as Natural Garden Sticks. Make sure your rabbit continues to eat plenty of hay, vegetables, and pellets as the main part of their diet.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the basic diet for a rabbit?

Hay is the most important foundation of a rabbit’s diet and should always be available in unlimited amounts. It supports healthy digestion and helps wear down their teeth naturally. You can supplement it with vegetables, dried herbs, and an occasional healthy treat.

Which vegetables can rabbits eat?

Rabbits can eat a variety of vegetables, such as endive, carrot tops, celery, parsley, chicory, and cucumber. Always introduce new vegetables gradually to prevent digestive issues. Increase both the amount and variety slowly so your rabbit can get used to the changes. Start with just 1–2 cm per vegetable.

When introducing new vegetables, rabbits may temporarily produce softer droppings as their digestive system adjusts to the new food. This is normal and usually resolves on its own within a few days. However, it is important that your rabbit continues eating, as a loss of appetite can lead to serious health problems.

Can rabbits eat fruit?

In moderation.

Fruit can be given occasionally as a treat, but only in small amounts due to its high sugar content. Suitable options include apple (without seeds), strawberry, and banana.

Can rabbits eat grass?

Yes.

Rabbits can eat fresh grass, but it must be clean, untreated, and free of droppings from other animals. If your rabbit is not used to eating grass, it should be introduced gradually to prevent issues like diarrhea.

Important: Rabbits should not be given lawn-mowed grass, as it ferments quickly and can develop mold. This is harmful to their digestion and may lead to gas buildup, diarrhea, and serious intestinal problems.

How many grams of pellets should I feed my rabbit per day?

Approximately 20–30 grams of pellets per kilogram of body weight per rabbit per day is sufficient. This helps prevent selective eating and supports a healthy weight. Ideally, the pellets should be eaten right away and not remain in the bowl for more than an hour. If they do, it’s best to remove them.

What should a rabbit never eat?

Rabbits should never eat chocolate, avocado, potatoes, onions, leeks, bread, seeds, nuts, or processed foods. These can be toxic or disrupt their digestive system. Gas-producing vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts can also cause problems.

Is it dangerous if my rabbit doesn't eat for a day?

Yes, this is always a reason to take action!

If a rabbit doesn’t eat for a day, it can quickly lead to serious health problems. Rabbits have a fast-working digestive system and need to eat constantly to keep their gut functioning. A lack of food can cause the intestines to slow down or stop completely, which is dangerous and can result in severe digestive issues like blockages or gas buildup. Unfortunately, this can become life-threatening very quickly.

Because rabbits are good at hiding discomfort, you should never wait. If you notice your rabbit isn’t eating, contact a veterinarian immediately.

How much water does a rabbit drink in addition to its diet?

On average, rabbits drink between 50 and 150 ml of water per kilogram of body weight per day. This means that a 2 kg rabbit should typically drink between 100 and 300 ml of water daily. The exact amount may vary depending on factors such as diet (more hay usually means more drinking) and climate (hot weather increases the need for water).

Rabbits must always have access to fresh drinking water, preferably in a bowl. This allows them to drink in a more natural way, making it easier for them to consume the proper amount. A bottle is also an option, but research shows that rabbits prefer a bowl and tend to drink less when using a bottle.

How do I introduce a new food to my rabbit?

When introducing new food to your rabbit, it’s important to do so gradually. Start by mixing a small amount of the new pellets with the old food. Slowly increase the proportion of new pellets over a period of 7 to 10 days, allowing your rabbit to adjust to the new taste and composition. At the same time, you can gradually reduce the old food. This helps prevent digestive problems.

It’s essential that your rabbit continues eating well during this transition, as a reduced appetite can lead to serious health issues such as gastrointestinal stasis. If your rabbit stops eating or shows signs of discomfort, slow the transition even further to give them more time to adjust.

Do rabbits need vitamins or supplements?

Generally, no.

As long as they receive a balanced diet with plenty of hay, vegetables, and a small amount of pellets, rabbits do not need additional vitamins. In cases of specific health issues, a veterinarian may recommend supplements. If you’d like to support your rabbits during periods of lowered immunity, Bunny Nature products can help. They offer several great options for rabbits that need extra support with sensitivities such as respiratory problems or reduced resistance.

 

Tips for Preparing Vegetables

In addition to introducing vegetables to your rabbit’s diet slowly and gradually, there are a few important tips for preparing vegetables safely and healthily:

  • Always feed vegetables raw, never cooked or baked, as these are hard for rabbits to digest
  • Wash vegetables thoroughly to remove dirt and pesticides
  • Remove any unhealthy or spoiled parts
  • Cut vegetables into bite-sized pieces to prevent choking
  • Offer a varied selection
  • Don’t give too much at once to avoid spoilage
  • Store vegetables in a cool place, but only feed them when they’ve reached room temperature to prevent digestive upset
  • Avoid toxic vegetables!

Following these tips will help ensure your rabbit can safely enjoy fresh and healthy vegetables. You can find a list of suitable and unsuitable vegetables below.

 

Which Vegetables Can a Rabbit Eat?

Can rabbits eat bell pepper?

Yes, in moderation.

Bell pepper is a safe vegetable for rabbits and contains a lot of vitamin C, which can be beneficial. Red and yellow bell peppers are suitable, but always remove the stem, seeds, and core, as these are hard to digest. Green bell peppers are less sweet and more difficult to digest, so it’s best to avoid them.

Can rabbits eat spinach?

Yes, in moderation.

Spinach contains many nutrients but also oxalates natural acids that can build up in your rabbit’s body and become harmful in large amounts. An occasional small portion is fine, but don’t feed it too often. Alternate with other leafy greens to maintain a balanced diet.

Can rabbits eat cauliflower?

Yes, in moderation.

Cauliflower is high in fiber and vitamins. Rabbits can eat the florets, leaves, and stems. Many rabbits especially enjoy the leaves as a delicacy. However, feed only small amounts, as cauliflower can easily cause gas. Introduce it very gradually and observe how your rabbit responds.

Can rabbits eat zucchini?

Yes, in moderation.

Zucchini is easy to digest. Both the skin and the flesh are safe for rabbits to eat. Offer small pieces and introduce it gradually to see how your rabbit reacts.

Can rabbits eat arugula?

Yes, in moderation.

Arugula is rich in nutrients. Because it has a peppery flavor and contains oxalates, it’s important to offer it in small quantities. Alternate it with other leafy greens and introduce it gradually to see how your rabbit reacts.

Can rabbits eat green beans?

No.

Green beans contain lectins and other substances that can be toxic to rabbits. This may lead to digestive issues and poisoning. Both raw and cooked green beans are unsuitable for rabbits and should not be given.

Can rabbits eat endive?

Yes, in moderation.

Endive is high in fiber and moisture. It is easy to digest and can be given regularly as part of a varied diet. Be sure to alternate it with other green leafy vegetables to maintain a good nutritional balance.

Can rabbits eat parsley?

Yes, in moderation.

Parsley is packed with vitamins and minerals. It can be a healthy addition to your rabbit’s diet, but due to its high calcium content, it should be fed in moderation. Alternate it with other leafy greens.

Can rabbits eat Brussels sprouts?

Yes, in moderation.

Brussels sprouts are safe to feed, but they can cause gas. Therefore, only offer small pieces and introduce this vegetable very gradually.

Can rabbits eat Chinese cabbage?

Yes, in moderation.

Chinese cabbage is high in fiber and moisture, but since it’s a type of cabbage, it can easily cause gas. Only offer it in small amounts and introduce it very gradually. Alternate it with other leafy greens.

 

Can rabbits eat eggplant?

No.

Eggplant belongs to the nightshade family and contains solanine, a toxic substance that is harmful to rabbits. It can cause digestive issues, nerve damage, and poisoning. The skin, flesh, leaves, and stem are all unsafe for rabbits.

 

Can rabbits eat cucumber?

Yes, in moderation.

Cucumber is mostly made up of water, which can be refreshing. Small pieces are fine, but too much can cause diarrhea due to its low fiber content. The skin is safe to eat, as long as it’s properly washed. Always offer cucumber in small amounts only.

Can rabbits eat broccoli?

Yes, in limited amounts.

Broccoli is rich in vitamins and fiber but can also cause gas in rabbits. Therefore, offer it in small quantities and monitor how your rabbit reacts. Both the florets, stalk, and leaves are suitable, but it should not be fed too often.

Can rabbits eat tomatoes?

Yes, but with caution!

Ripe tomatoes are safe for rabbits, but they are high in sugar and low in fiber. Only give a very small piece occasionally as a treat, and always remove the seeds.

Important: The tomato plant itself is toxic! It belongs to the nightshade family, and the leaves, stems, and unripe tomatoes contain solanine. This is a natural toxin that protects plants from insects but can cause digestive problems, nerve damage, or even poisoning in rabbits.

Can rabbits eat arugula?

Yes, in moderation.

Arugula is rich in nutrients. Because it has a strong flavor and contains oxalates, it’s important to feed it in small amounts. Alternate with other leafy greens and introduce it gradually to see how your rabbit responds.

Can rabbits eat bok choy?

Yes, in moderation.

Bok choy contains a lot of vitamins and moisture. Feed it in small amounts and alternate it with other leafy greens.

Can rabbits eat carrots?

Yes, in moderation.

Rabbits love carrots. However, the carrot root itself contains a lot of sugar, so it should only be given in small amounts. The green tops and leaves, on the other hand, can be fed in larger quantities. They are high in fiber and a healthy addition to your rabbit’s diet.

Can rabbits eat radishes?

Yes, but in very limited amounts.

Radishes contain a lot of starch and can easily cause gas in rabbits. So only give a small piece occasionally. The leaves are high in fiber and more nutritious than the root itself, and can be given in larger quantities.

Can rabbits eat pointed cabbage?

Yes, in moderation.

Pointed cabbage is rich in fiber and nutrients. Feed it in small quantities, as cabbage varieties can easily cause gas. Alternate it with other leafy greens to maintain a balanced diet.

Can rabbits eat chicory?

Yes, in moderation.

Chicory is easy to digest and contains a lot of moisture and fiber. It can be given regularly as part of a varied diet.

 

Can rabbits eat fennel?

Yes, in moderation.

Fennel is rich in fiber, vitamins, and digestive-supporting nutrients. The bulb, stalks, and fronds are all safe to feed. However, offer it only in small amounts and carefully observe how your rabbit responds.

Can rabbits eat leek?

No.

Leek contains toxic substances that can be harmful to rabbits. It can lead to anemia, digestive problems, and damage to red blood cells. This applies to all onion-like vegetables, such as red onion, white onion, spring onion, leek, and chives.

What Types of Fruit Can a Rabbit Eat?

Can rabbits eat strawberries?

Yes, in limited amounts.

Strawberries are a tasty treat for your rabbit, but they contain a lot of natural sugars. So only offer a small piece and not too often. The green tops of the strawberry are safe to eat, but be sure to wash the strawberries thoroughly before feeding, and start with a very small piece.

The strawberry plant itself is also safe for rabbits including the leaves, stems, and flowers. However, this too should only be given in moderation and as part of a varied diet.

Can rabbits eat grapes?

Yes, in moderation.

Grapes are not toxic to rabbits, but they are high in sugar. Therefore, they should only be given as an occasional treat. Preferably use seedless grapes, or remove the seeds, as they are difficult for rabbits to digest. Do not give more than one grape at a time, and no more than once a week.

Can rabbits eat banana?

Yes, in moderation.

Banana is considered very tasty by rabbits, but it contains a lot of sugar. So only give a small piece as a treat and not too often. One thin slice is enough! Too much banana can cause digestive problems and lead to obesity. The peel is not toxic, but it is hard to digest so it’s best not to feed it.

Can rabbits eat pear?

Yes, in moderation.

Pear is high in sugar, so only offer a small piece occasionally as a treat. Always remove the seeds and core, as they may contain harmful substances. The skin can be left on, as long as it is properly washed.

Can rabbits eat watermelon?

Yes, in moderation.

Rabbits often love watermelon. It’s a refreshing treat that is sweet and contains a lot of moisture. Because watermelon is high in sugar and low in fiber, it should only be given as an occasional treat and in small pieces. The rind is also safe, but only offer a small amount. It’s best to remove the seeds in advance, as they are difficult for rabbits to digest.

Can rabbits eat apple?

Yes, in moderation.

Apple is deliciously sweet and very popular with most rabbits, but it’s also high in sugar. For that reason, only give a small piece occasionally. A thin slice or a few small 1 cm cubes is more than enough. Always remove the seeds and core, as they contain substances that are harmful to your rabbit.

Can rabbits eat blueberries?

Yes, in moderation.

Blueberries contain a lot of sugar, so only offer a few as a treat and do so infrequently.

Can rabbits eat mandarin?

In very limited amounts.

Mandarins contain a lot of sugar and acid. Therefore, they should only be given as an occasional treat and in very small quantities. Always remove the peel and seeds, as they are difficult for rabbits to digest.

Other Food Items

Can rabbits eat bread?

No.

Bread is high in starch and low in fiber, which is bad for a rabbit’s digestion. It can lead to constipation, gas, and obesity. Additionally, bread does not help wear down their teeth naturally.

Can rabbits eat chives?

No.

Chives belong to the onion family and contain toxic substances that are harmful to rabbits. They can cause anemia, digestive issues, and damage to red blood cells. This applies to all onion-like vegetables, including red onion, white onion, spring onion, leek, and chives.

Can rabbits eat potatoes?

No.

Potatoes are high in starch, which is difficult for rabbits to digest and can lead to intestinal issues, constipation, and gas. In addition, raw potatoes—and especially the peel contain solanine, a toxic substance that is harmful to rabbits.

Can rabbits eat basil?

Yes, in moderation.

Basil is rich in nutrients and can be given as a flavorful addition to the diet, but only in small amounts.

Can rabbits eat onion?

No.

Onions contain toxic substances that can be harmful to rabbits. They may cause anemia, digestive issues, and damage to red blood cells. This applies to all onion-like vegetables, including red onion, white onion, spring onion, leek, and chives.

Can rabbits eat garlic?

No.

Garlic belongs to the onion family and contains toxic substances that are harmful to rabbits. It can cause anemia, digestive problems, and damage to red blood cells. Both raw and cooked garlic are dangerous.

Do you have a question about another food item?

Missing a food item or looking for personalized feeding advice for your rabbit? Feel free to contact us at [email protected].

Has your rabbit eaten something harmful or stopped eating altogether? Always contact your veterinarian immediately.