Rabbit Food: A Healthy Diet

Contrary to popular belief, rabbits eat
more than just carrots and lettuce. Here
are some suggestions about what to
feed your bunnies to keep them happy
and healthy.

Hay
The bottom of a rabbit food pyramid
would contain long-stemmed fiber, in
the form of hay. This is the primary
food source for the wild cousins and
ancestors of the domestic rabbit. Hay
should be provided around the clock, which is called “free feeding.” Rabbits under one
year of age can be fed alfalfa hay, but as they get older they should be switched to grass
hay – timothy, orchard grass or a blend of grasses – especially if they are also being fed
alfalfa pellets. Buy the freshest hay possible and check for mold and dust, which could
make your rabbit very ill.

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. Feed carrots and
vegetables in the cabbage family, such as broccoli, just once a week. Do not feed your
rabbit potatoes, corn, beans or seeds and nuts. These foods are difficult for rabbits to
digest and can cause serious digestive problems.
A general guideline for greens is to feed about a cup for every 3 to 4 pounds of the
rabbit’s weight daily. Here are some yummy suggestions: carrot and radish tops; broccoli
leaves; kale; endive; red, green and romaine lettuce; and dandelion greens. Rabbits love
fresh herbs such as mint, cilantro, basil, parsley and dill. For the young rabbit, add one
new vegetable at a time, and for all rabbits, watch for signs of loose stool or diarrhea.

Pellets
Rabbits under one year of age can be free-fed alfalfa pellets. As they age, the amount
of pellets to feed is one-quarter to one-third cup per 4 to 5 pounds of the rabbit’s weight.
As rabbits reach their senior years, around age 7 to 8, the amount of pellets may need
to be increased. Be sure to feed grass hay (rather than alfalfa) if you are feeding your
rabbits alfalfa pellets. Pellets based on timothy hay are also available and are a good
alternative, especially if your rabbit is gaining weight or getting too much protein in his
diet. Look for pellets with a high fiber content – the higher the better. Do not buy the
rabbit food with additives such as dried corn, nuts and seeds.

Treats
Rabbits have a sweet tooth! Treats are at the top of the food pyramid and should be
fed sparingly. Small pieces of fruit such as apples, strawberries, papaya, bananas and
pineapple are welcome treats. Never give your rabbit chocolate or other sugar-coated
treats. One small section of graham cracker or a teaspoon of Cheerios are OK, but these
should be given only occasionally.

Water
Give your rabbits fresh water every day. A rabbit will drink as much water each day as a
20-pound dog. Water bottles are acceptable, but your rabbit will be encouraged to drink
more if the water is in a heavy ceramic bowl.


This Article is courtesy of : Debby Widolf the coordinator of development and advocacy for the Best Friends
Bunny House.