As a responsible rabbit owner, you might wonder "What can rabbits eat?" After all, you want to ensure that your pet is healthy, happy, and thriving. And it can be confusing to figure out what your rabbit can eat so they stay healthy.
The foundation of a healthy lifestyle for rabbits is a well-balanced diet. In this article, we'll discuss the basics of what to feed your rabbit, including commercial rabbit food, fresh produce, and hay.
We'll also touch on the dangers of overfeeding and obesity, which can have a serious impact on your rabbit's health.
Commercial Rabbit Food
Commercial rabbit food is a convenient and balanced source of nutrition for your pet. Look for a high-quality, pellet-based food that is specifically formulated for rabbits, like Bunluv Rabbit Feed. These pellets should be the foundation of your rabbit's diet, making up about 75% of their total food intake. The rest of their diet should consist of fresh produce and hay.
Fresh Produce
In addition to commercial rabbit food, fresh produce is an important part of a healthy diet for rabbits. Offer your rabbit a variety of leafy greens, such as lettuce, spinach, and kale, along with other healthy options like carrots, celery, and parsley (although carrots can be starchy, so limit carrots more than leafy greens like kale.)
Be sure to introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset, and limit the amount of starchy or sugary fruits like bananas and grapes.
Hay
Hay is a critical part of a healthy diet for rabbits and should be available to them at all times. We recommend Bunluv's Alfalfa and Botanical Hay. Not only does hay provide essential fiber to keep their digestive system healthy, it also helps wear down their constantly growing teeth.
Offer your rabbit a high-quality hay, such as timothy, mixed grass, alfalfa, or oat hay, and make sure it is fresh and free from mold. If your rabbit is an eager chewer and loves to play, we'll bet Bunluv's Mini Hay Bale will keep your pet entertained for hours!
Dangers of Overfeeding and Obesity
While it may be tempting to overindulge your rabbit with treats, it is important to be mindful of their food intake to avoid the dangers of overfeeding and obesity. Obesity in rabbits can lead to a number of health issues, including digestive problems, joint pain, and reduced lifespan.
To avoid overfeeding, stick to a balanced diet of commercial rabbit food, fresh produce, and hay, and limit treats to occasional rewards. You can easily limit the amount of treats by giving them as entertainment or when you let your rabbit play with toys.
In conclusion, providing your rabbit with a balanced diet is an essential part of responsible pet ownership. By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that your furry friend is happy, healthy, and thriving. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to us. We're here to help!