When you think of a pet bunny, you likely get an image of a cartoon rabbit feasting on a carrot. But is that really all we need to stay healthy and fit? While we love a good, crisp carrot, you’d be surprised to know we can’t have too many of them. Moreover, everything we put in our little, cute mouths must cater to our unique digestive system.
Thankfully, learning about our diet’s dos and don’ts is not rocket science. What can rabbits eat to live a long and happy life? In this guide, I’ll explain everything you need to know about feeding your pet rabbit.
Why it’s important to pay attention to your bunny’s diet
If you’re considering getting a fluffy companion like me, you must first understand how our little bodies work. Surprisingly, we’re not that much different from our wild cousins.
You’ve probably heard the saying, “You are what you eat.” Well, that’s especially true for us rabbits! If we don’t eat the right foods, we can end up with serious tummy troubles. Our teeth also grow constantly, so we need to chew on the right things to keep them in shape. (Trust me, overgrown teeth are no fun!)
This means having plenty of grass and hay to nibble on, fresh veggies and leafy greens as a special treat, and a bit of high-fiber pellets.
Hay, hay, hay, and more hay
The majority of your pet rabbit’s daily food intake (around 85-87%) should be made up of hay. This may seem boring to you, but for us, it’s not! Hay is full of fiber and protein, plus it helps regulate our digestive system! What’s not to love? Snacking on hay is also helpful for our dental health, and it prevents hairballs from getting stuck in our tummies. Some vets even point out that hay is beneficial for our mental health. When we’re constantly chewing on grass, it’s hard to get bored!
So, the golden question is, how much hay is enough (or too much)? Ideally, we should have access to a constant supply of it. However, as a general rule of thumb, we should eat a ball of hay roughly the size of our body per day.
Just remember – freshly cut grass from a lawn mower is not suitable for bunnies. It can be quite dangerous and cause various health issues. So, instead, use scissors to cut the grass.
Also, make sure the hay we’re eating looks and smells fresh. If it’s brown or moldy, it’s not something we should be snacking on! So, wherever you buy your hay, store it in a dry place with good air circulation.
Pro Tip: Most bunnies will never say no to some hay, but if your fluffy friend is reluctant to eat it, this may be a sign of underlying health problems, such as dental problems. In this case, you should take them to the vet.
Fresh veggies and leafy greens
Here comes the fun part! Around 10% of our meals should include fresh veggies and leafy greens (about the size of our head per day). Remember that whatever we put in our mouths should be washed thoroughly. If possible, choose pesticide-free veggies.
So, what vegetables can rabbits eat? Ideally, bunnies should have five to six different types of veggies per day. We can safely eat products like cabbage, spinach, celery, parsley, broccoli, kale, mint, dandelion leaves, and dill. Nevertheless, make sure to introduce new greens to us gradually, as some foods can upset our tummies. Go easy on foods with higher oxalic acid concentration (this includes spinach, sprouts, mustard greens, etc.)
To make your life easier, I’ve created a New Food Introduction Cheat Sheet and Tracking Log (as part of my Bunny Care Printables). This will give you inspiration for new products to give your bunny and a template for writing down how your little friend reacts to each one.
What about carrots and fruits?
The previous list didn’t include carrots, sweet potatoes, or any fruits. That’s not because we don’t like them – we love them! However, these foods are high in sugar or starch, so we should only eat them in moderation, no more than a couple of times a week.
High-fiber pellets
In addition to fresh hay and veggies, you can offer a small portion of pellets (just 2-5 tablespoons per day) to your rabbit. Look for products that are high in fiber and low in protein, and avoid those with additives like dried corn or seeds. While they may seem like a yummy snack, they can cause obesity and other digestive issues.
Like hay, our pellets must be fresh, otherwise, we’ll quickly turn up our noses.
The best treats for your bunny
All that hay can get a little dull… If you want to treat us to something special, small pieces of fresh fruit or veggies (such as strawberries, raspberries, bananas, apples, or pineapple) are the best option. Just remember that these foods have a high sugar content, so they shouldn’t be given too often (as much as we’d like them!). Limit them to 1-2 tablespoons per day.
Don’t forget about water!
Like most pets, bunnies also need constant access to fresh drinking water. Some prefer to drink from bowls, others – from drip-feed bottles. If your fluffy companion is a fan of bottles, remember to check whether it’s working properly and the end isn’t blocked. Remember, it should always be clean. If you notice signs of green, this means it might have algae.
Final thoughts: What to feed your pet rabbit
It’s no secret bunnies love a good meal. But for us to live a long and happy life, it’s essential to pay attention to our eating habits. While for humans, an upset stomach may not be a big deal, for bunnies, it can quickly become life-threatening. Luckily, if you follow our tips and guidelines, this is not something you’ll have to worry about.
So, once you’ve learned all the dos and don’ts, grab your Bunny Shopping List from our Bunny Care Printables and stock up on hay, veggies, and pellets!
FAQ
What is the best thing to feed a bunny?
The best food for a bunny is fresh hay (like timothy or orchard grass), which should make up about 85% of their diet.
What is a rabbit's favorite food?
Rabbits love sweet fruits and veggies like carrots, apples, and bananas, but these should be given only as occasional treats.
What food not to give rabbits?
Avoid giving rabbits processed foods, bread, dairy, sugary treats, nuts, seeds, or anything high in starch.
Stay tuned for more hopping good tales and tips from yours truly, Chester!
Paws and kisses,
Chester the Bunny 🐰
