It is essential a rabbit is given a varied, well balanced and high fibre diet in order to support its digestive health and wellbeing. Rabbits have a complex digestive system, which means they are more likely to suffer from stomach upsets and gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis). This means what you feed your rabbit is one of the most important parts of your care.
Rabbits are herbivores so only eat plant material. They do not require meat in their diet and this should never be offered to them. In the wild rabbits graze on different grasses and plants, but domestic rabbits rely on their paw-rents to provide them with the various foods they need. Their diet should consist of at least 85% hay, 10% leafy greens/herbs/veggies and 5% pellets or nuggets.
Hay and grasses - 85% of their diet Fibre is the most important part of a rabbits diet and hay should be given in an unlimited supply. Fibre is so important for a healthy digestion process and the production of caecotrophs, which is essential. Hay should be of a good quality that is fresh, dust free and sweet smelling. In the wild a rabbit will graze on all different types of grasses and hays, so a mixture should ideally be given, to include meadow hay. We have a selection of good quality hay https://www.hoppypets.co.uk/hay Hay is also important for a rabbits ever growing teeth, as chewing it helps to keep them worn down. Rabbits do also eat grass but it is extremely important to note that lawnmower clippings should never be fed to a rabbit. When mown, the grass very quickly starts to ferment which can upset their digestive system and make them ill.
Top Tip: why not add some tasty dried flowers or forage to your rabbits hay to encourage them to eat hay and encourage their natural behaviours. Shop forage here https://www.hoppypets.co.uk/forage
Leafy Greens - 10% of their diet Leafy greens, herbs and green vegetables tend to be high in fibre and low in sugar and so they are very good for digestion. However, some of these leafy greens and vegetables can cause gas. Gas in rabbits can lead to GI stasis, so things like spring greens, kale, broccoli and cabbage should be fed in moderation to avoid this. Kale and parsley can also be high in calcium, so should also be given in moderation. Although calcium is an important mineral for a rabbits diet, too much can cause bladder sludge and stones. Avoid giving iceberg or light coloured lettuce to your rabbit as they contain a lot of water, so can cause diarrhea and has very little nutritional value. Some healthy greens, vegetables and herbs that can be given to a rabbit are listed below. All fresh foods offered should be washed thoroughly and checked for mouldy or decaying parts before being fed. Please note that this list is not an exhaustive list.
Dandelions
Carrot tops
Mint
Basil
Coriander
Fennel
Thyme
Dill
Parsley
Kale
Covelo Nero
Ribwort Plantain
Broccoli
Cauliflower (including leaves)
Pellets / Nuggets - 5% of their diet
These are widely available with many different types to choose from. It is important to purchase the correct one according to age/life stage due to the different nutritional requirements. They should only be fed in small amounts, an egg cup is a good guideline. Nuggets contain all the necessary nutrients your rabbit will need, so these are advisable over the muesli style mix, which can cause selective feeding, meaning your rabbit will essentially pick out all of the bits he or she likes and leave other part which could hold essential nutrients your rabbit needs. Nuggets should always be fed along side hay and never as a substitute. At Hoppy Pets, we have a selection of nuggets here https://www.hoppypets.co.uk/rabbit-nuggets
Treats - occasional
It may seem reasonable that because a rabbit eats plenty of leafy greens and vegetables, that they should eat a lot of fruit as well. Rabbits do not naturally forage for fruit. They do enjoy fruit, but a small amount should only be given as a treat once or twice a week. This also applies to carrots, which are naturally very high in sugar. Cartoons and TV shows often lead us to believe that a rabbit should eat a lot of carrots. Carrots and fruits are very high in sugar and can cause obesity as well as teeth and stomach issues if overeaten. However, leafy green carrot tops are safe and can be eaten more regularly. As with vegetables, all fruit must be washed before being given and checked for any rotting areas. Some fruits that are safe (in moderation!) and may be enjoyed by a rabbit are listed here.
Grapes
Apple (no seeds)
Banana (small slice)
Pears
Watermelon
Strawberries
Raspberries
Blueberries
Other treats, such as hay based treats may also be fed more frequently, but still in moderation. Visit https://www.hoppypets.co.uk/treats for some great, safe rabbit treats.
Fresh clean water
Rabbits should be given access to fresh clean water at all times. Water that has not been drunk the day before must be poured away and replaced. The most natural way for a rabbit to drink is in a bowl (think of wild rabbits and puddles!) The bowl should be heavy and sturdy, ideally made from ceramic to avoid it tipping over. Large, sturdy bowls can be found here and some even personalised! https://www.hoppypets.co.uk/bowls
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