What Can Rabbits Eat? A Complete Food Guide for Pet Owners

A rabbit’s health begins with what you feed them. Because rabbits are herbivores and have a unique digestive system, the wrong food can lead to serious health problems. Rabbits are “hindgut fermenters,” which means they digest food through fermentation in the cecum, a part of their intestine. This makes fiber incredibly important to keep their gut moving. Without enough fiber, or if they eat the wrong types of food, they can suffer from gastrointestinal stasis (a dangerous digestive slowdown). Do you know What Can Rabbits Eat?

A well-balanced diet not only keeps your rabbit’s digestive system running smoothly but also helps prevent obesity, dental problems, and behavioral issues. Unfortunately, many owners make common mistakes like feeding too many pellets, sugary treats, or inappropriate veggies.

The Basics of a Rabbit’s Natural Diet | What Can Rabbits Eat

Hay – The Most Important Food

Hay should make up around 80–90% of your rabbit’s daily food intake. It is essential for proper digestion and helps wear down their continuously growing teeth. Popular options include:

• Timothy Hay – Best for adult rabbits
• Orchard Grass – Soft and aromatic, great for picky eaters
• Alfalfa Hay – High in calcium and protein; ideal for young rabbits under 6 months or pregnant/nursing females, but not recommended for adults

Fresh Water – Always Available

Clean, fresh water must be available to your rabbit at all times. While some rabbits prefer water bottles, many drink more from a ceramic or stainless steel bowl, which is more natural for them. Change water daily.

Pellets – How Much and What Type

Pellets should be given in moderation. Choose a high-fiber, plain pellet with no seeds, nuts, or colorful pieces. Adult rabbits should only receive about ¼ cup per 5 lbs of body weight per day. Pellets are not a replacement for hay.

Read more : Beginners Guide to Pet Rabbits: Complete Care Tips for First-Time Owners

Vegetables Rabbits Can Eat Safely (Daily & Weekly)

Daily Veggies (Low in Oxalates)

Offer 2–3 types of these leafy greens daily:

• Romaine lettuce
• Bok choy
• Basil
• Cilantro
• Dill
• Spring greens These veggies support hydration and provide essential nutrients without causing digestive distress.

Occasional Veggies (High in Oxalates or Gas)

Feed these only a few times a week due to high oxalates or potential to cause gas:

• Spinach
• Kale
• Broccoli (small amounts)
• Swiss chard
• Mustard greens

Leafy Greens vs Root Veggies – What’s Better?

Leafy greens are generally safer. Root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or beets are high in sugar and should only be given sparingly as treats.

Read more : Top 10 Surprising Reasons to Welcome a Bunny into Your Home

Fruits Rabbits Can Eat in Moderation

Fruits are like candy for rabbits—tasty but sugary. Only offer 1–2 tablespoons per 5 lbs of body weight per day.

• Apple slices (no seeds)
• Banana (small pieces)
• Berries: strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
• Melon

Always wash fruits and remove seeds or pits. Monitor your rabbit’s poop afterward to ensure good digestion.

Herbs That Are Good for Rabbits | What Can Rabbits Eat

Rabbits enjoy herbs both as food and enrichment. Fresh herbs can aid digestion and add variety:

• Mint
• Parsley
• Dill
• Thyme
• Oregano

You can also offer dried herbs, but use them in moderation. Mix them into hay or pellets to encourage natural foraging.

Foods You Should NEVER Feed Your Rabbit | What Can Rabbits Eat

Some foods can be harmful or even fatal. Avoid the following:

• Iceberg lettuce (low nutrition, can cause diarrhea)
• Potatoes and onions
• Garlic
• Chocolate, candy, or processed foods
• Dairy and meat
• Avocado (toxic)

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Also avoid commercial treats that contain seeds, corn, and artificial flavors.

Treats for Rabbits: Store-Bought vs. Homemade

Choose healthy, USA-made rabbit treats that are timothy-hay based or 100% natural.

DIY treat ideas:

• Mashed banana + oats formed into balls and baked at low temperature
• Dried apple or carrot chips (no sugar added)

Use treats only during training or bonding sessions.

Sample Feeding Schedule (Daily Routine) | What Can Rabbits Eat

Morning: Fresh hay + small amount of pellets + handful of greens

Afternoon: Refill hay + water check

Evening: Leafy greens + small fruit or veggie treat + more hay

Rotate vegetables to offer a variety of nutrients. Always monitor water intake.

Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid | What Can Rabbits Eat

• Overfeeding pellets: Leads to obesity
• Offering too many sugary fruits
• Lack of hay: Causes dental and digestive issues
• Introducing too many new foods too fast
• Feeding unsafe human foods or table scraps

Read more : Bunny Love: Are Rabbits Affectionate Pets?

Tips for Introducing New Foods to Your Rabbit | What Can Rabbits Eat

Use the 3-day rule: Offer a small piece, monitor droppings and behavior.

If soft stool or diarrhea appears, remove the new food and stick to hay.

Contact a vet if symptoms persist longer than 24–48 hours.

Seasonal Feeding – What Changes in Summer vs Winter?

In summer, provide cooling foods like cucumber or fresh herbs and ensure hydration with extra water bowls.

In winter, increase fiber-rich hay and avoid cold or wet veggies that may reduce body temperature.

Buy local USA seasonal produce for freshness and better nutrition.

✅ Bonus: Printable Rabbit Safe Foods List | What Can Rabbits Eat

Create a color-coded chart:

• Green – Safe daily
• Yellow – Once or twice a week
• Red – Never feed

Include icons or emojis for kids/families to easily recognize safe items. Offer this as a free download to boost reader engagement.

How Often Should Rabbits Be Fed?

Rabbits should always have unlimited hay, a small serving of pellets once daily, and fresh vegetables daily. Treats should be limited to a few times a week.

FAQs on what can rabbits eat