What Do Rabbits Eat?
Rabbits are herbivorous animals that need more than just carrots and lettuce in order to stay healthy. A balanced diet for a pet rabbit includes hay, fresh greens and vegetables, and commercially prepared rabbit food.
Hay
Hay is the single most important food for keeping your rabbit healthy. It should account for the majority of a rabbit’s diet and should always be available. Hay provides roughage and aids digestion. It is also essential for wear down the continuously growing front teeth of rabbits.
Types of hay that you can feed your rabbit include:
- Timothy Hay: The first type of hay that you should offer your rabbit.
- Oat Hay: A good source of fiber, protein, vitamins and minerals that helps keep your rabbit in good health.
- Alfalfa Hay: High in protein and calcium, very nutritious but should be offered only to growing rabbits or pregnant/nursing does.
Fresh Greens and Vegetables
Fresh greens and vegetables are an important part of a balanced diet for rabbits. Offer daily a variety of fresh vegetables and greens. Some vegetables and greens your rabbit may like include:
- Green leafy vegetables: kale, romaine lettuce, chicory, spinach, dandelion, parsley, celery, and coriander.
- Root vegetables: carrots, beetroot, pumpkin, squash, and sweet potatoes.
- Fruits: apples, pears, bananas, melon and grapes (occasionally in small amounts).
Commercially Prepared Rabbit Food
Commercially prepared rabbit food is also an important part of a balanced diet for rabbits. Choose a good quality food that contains hay, dried vegetables and fruit, and other nutrients. Feed your rabbit this type of food as a supplement to hay, fresh vegetables, and other foods.
By following the above guidance, you can ensure that your rabbit stays healthy and gets all the nutrition it needs.
