Rabbit Food Guide: Everything You Need to Know About Feeding Your Pet Bunny

Feeding your pet bunny correctly is crucial for their health and happiness. A rabbit’s diet should primarily consist of unlimited fresh hay, supplemented with a measured amount of high-quality pellets, and a daily variety of fresh, safe leafy greens and vegetables. Always provide constant access to fresh water.

Bringing a new bunny home is exciting, but figuring out the best way to feed them can feel a bit overwhelming. With so much information out there, it’s common to wonder if you’re providing the right balance of nutrients for your furry friend. Many new rabbit owners struggle with understanding which foods are safe, how much to give, and what role each food plays in their bunny’s overall health. You’re in the perfect place to get clear, easy-to-follow advice that cuts through the confusion. We’ll walk you through everything you need to know, from daily essentials to occasional treats, ensuring your pet bunny thrives.

The Foundation of a Healthy Rabbit Diet: Unlimited Hay

Hay is, without a doubt, the most important part of your rabbit’s diet. It’s not just food; it’s medicine, exercise, and entertainment all rolled into one. Rabbits should have access to unlimited fresh hay every single day. Think of it as their primary food source, making up about 80-90% of their daily intake.

Why Is Hay So Important?

• Dental Health: A rabbit’s teeth grow continuously throughout their life. Chewing on fibrous hay helps to wear down their teeth naturally, preventing painful dental problems like malocclusion and spurs. Without enough hay, their teeth can overgrow, leading to serious health issues.
• Digestive Health: Hay provides essential fiber that keeps a rabbit’s delicate digestive system (gastrointestinal tract) moving properly. This fiber prevents stasis, a life-threatening condition where the gut slows down or stops. It also helps form healthy droppings and prevents hairballs.
• Nutrients: Good quality hay offers vital nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins, necessary for a rabbit’s overall well-being.
• Mental Stimulation: Foraging for and chewing hay provides mental enrichment and helps prevent boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors.

Types of Hay for Rabbits

While there are several types of hay, not all are suitable for adult rabbits. The most common and recommended types include:

• Timothy Hay: This is the gold standard for adult rabbits. It’s high in fiber and relatively low in protein and calcium, making it perfect for daily consumption. It comes in different cuts (first, second, third), with second cut being the most popular for its balance of stem and leaf.
• Orchard Grass Hay: A good alternative or addition to Timothy hay, especially for rabbits who might be sensitive to Timothy or just prefer a softer texture. It has a similar nutritional profile.
• Oat Hay: Higher in fiber and lower in protein than alfalfa, oat hay is another good option for adult rabbits. It has a coarser texture that many rabbits enjoy.
• Alfalfa Hay: This hay is much higher in protein and calcium. It is generally recommended only for young, growing rabbits (under 7 months), pregnant or nursing does, or rabbits recovering from illness who need extra calories and calcium. It should not be fed to adult rabbits regularly as it can lead to health problems like bladder stones.

Always ensure the hay you provide is fresh, dust-free, and smells sweet. Avoid hay that looks moldy, discolored, or smells musty. You can purchase high-quality Timothy hay from reputable brands. For example, Oxbow Animal Health Timothy Hay is a popular and trusted choice among rabbit owners.

Pellets: The Supplement, Not the Main Course

Pellets are often mistakenly seen as the primary food for rabbits, but they should only be a small, supplementary part of an adult rabbit’s diet. Their main purpose is to provide concentrated vitamins, minerals, and protein that might be missing from hay and fresh greens.

Choosing the Right Pellets

• High-Fiber, Timothy-Based: For adult rabbits, choose a high-fiber, Timothy hay-based pellet. Avoid alfalfa-based pellets unless specifically recommended by your vet for a young, pregnant, or nursing rabbit.
• No Seeds, Nuts, or Colorful Bits: Steer clear of “muesli” style mixes that contain seeds, nuts, corn, or dried fruit. These are often high in sugar and fat, low in fiber, and can lead to selective eating, digestive issues, and obesity.
• Plain and Uniform: The best pellets are plain, uniform in size and color, indicating a consistent nutritional content.

How Much to Feed?

The amount of pellets depends on your rabbit’s age, size, and activity level. As a general guideline for adult rabbits (over 7 months):

• Small Rabbits (under 5 lbs): 1/8 cup per day
• Medium Rabbits (5-10 lbs): 1/4 cup per day
• Large Rabbits (over 10 lbs): 1/2 cup per day

These are starting points; always observe your rabbit’s weight and adjust accordingly. Overfeeding pellets can lead to obesity and reduce their hay intake, which is detrimental to their health.

Fresh Vegetables and Greens: A Daily Delight

Fresh vegetables and leafy greens are an essential part of a rabbit’s diet, providing vital vitamins, minerals, and moisture. They should be offered daily, typically 1-2 cups per 6 pounds of body weight, divided into two feedings.

Safe Vegetables and Greens

Variety is key! Offer a mix of at least 3-5 different types of greens daily to ensure a broad spectrum of nutrients. Introduce new vegetables one at a time and in small amounts to monitor for any digestive upset.

Here’s a table of common safe vegetables and greens:

Category	Examples of Safe Vegetables/Greens	Feeding Notes
Leafy Greens (Daily)	Romaine lettuce, Green leaf lettuce, Red leaf lettuce, Butter lettuce, Cilantro, Parsley, Dill, Mint, Basil, Carrot tops, Beet greens (in moderation), Collard greens, Kale (in moderation), Dandelion greens (pesticide-free), Spring mix (check ingredients), Arugula	Offer a variety daily. Avoid iceberg lettuce (low nutritional value, can cause diarrhea). Kale and other cruciferous vegetables can cause gas in some rabbits, so feed in moderation.
Non-Leafy Vegetables (Limited Treats)	Carrot (small piece), Bell pepper (green, red, yellow), Cucumber, Zucchini, Broccoli (stems and leaves, small amount), Celery (cut into small pieces to prevent stringy choking hazard), Brussels sprouts (small amount), Asparagus	These are higher in sugar or starch. Feed in very small quantities as treats, not daily staples.

Vegetables to Feed in Moderation (High in Oxalates or Calcium)

Some greens, while safe, should be fed in smaller quantities or rotated due to higher levels of oxalates or calcium, which can contribute to bladder sludge or stones in sensitive rabbits.

• Spinach
• Kale
• Mustard greens
• Beet greens
• Parsley
• Swiss chard

It’s best to rotate these with other greens lower in oxalates and calcium.

Fruits and Treats: In Moderation Only

Fruits and commercial treats should be given very sparingly due to their high sugar content. Think of them as special rewards, not a regular part of the diet.

Safe Fruits (Very Small Portions)

• Apple (without seeds)
• Banana (tiny slice)
• Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
• Melon (without rind or seeds)
• Pear
• Peach (without pit)
• Pineapple (small piece)

A good guideline is no more than 1-2 tablespoons of fruit per 6 pounds of body weight, a couple of times a week at most. Too much sugar can disrupt a rabbit’s delicate gut flora and lead to digestive upset or obesity.

Commercial Treats

Many commercial rabbit treats are high in sugar, fat, and artificial ingredients. If you choose to offer commercial treats, look for those made primarily from hay, with no added sugars, dairy, or artificial colors. Hay-based treats or small pieces of dried fruit (unsweetened) are generally safer.

Water: Essential for Life

Fresh, clean water must be available to your rabbit at all times. Water is crucial for digestion, nutrient absorption, and overall bodily functions.

Water Bowls vs. Bottles

• Ceramic Water Bowls: Many experts recommend heavy ceramic bowls over water bottles. Bowls are more natural for rabbits to drink from, allowing them to drink more easily and in larger quantities. They are also easier to clean thoroughly.
• Water Bottles: While convenient, water bottles can sometimes clog, leak, or become difficult for rabbits to use, leading to dehydration. The small spouts can also be hard to keep clean. If using a bottle, check it daily to ensure it’s working and clean it frequently to prevent bacterial buildup.

If you use a bottle, consider offering a bowl as well, especially if your rabbit is new or you’re unsure of their preference. Change the water daily and clean the bowl/bottle thoroughly to prevent algae and bacterial growth.

Foods to Avoid: Dangerous for Your Bunny

Just as there are safe foods, there are many common human foods that are toxic or harmful to rabbits. Avoiding these is critical for your bunny’s health.

• Iceberg Lettuce: Lacks nutritional value and can cause diarrhea.
• Legumes (Beans, Peas): Can cause severe gas and digestive upset.
• Corn: Difficult for rabbits to digest and can lead to impaction.
• Seeds and Nuts: High in fat and can cause digestive problems.
• Avocado: Contains persin, which is toxic to many animals, including rabbits.
• Rhubarb: Contains high levels of oxalic acid, which is toxic.
• Onions, Garlic, Leeks, Chives: All members of the Allium family are toxic to rabbits and can cause blood disorders.
• Chocolate: Toxic to most pets, including rabbits.
• Dairy Products: Rabbits are lactose intolerant and cannot digest dairy.
• Meat and Eggs: Rabbits are herbivores; their digestive system is not designed for animal protein.
• Processed Human Foods: Bread, pasta, cookies, crackers, and anything high in sugar, salt, or fat are extremely harmful.
• Potato: High in starch and can cause digestive upset.
• Fruit Seeds/Pits: Many contain cyanide and are toxic.
• Houseplants: Many common houseplants are poisonous to rabbits. Always research before allowing access.

When in doubt, don’t feed it. It’s always safer to stick to known safe foods.

Age-Specific Feeding Guidelines

A rabbit’s dietary needs change significantly throughout their life. What’s appropriate for a baby bunny is not suitable for a senior rabbit.

Age Group	Hay	Pellets	Greens/Vegetables	Fruits/Treats
Birth to 3 Weeks	Mother’s milk only	Mother’s milk only	None	None
3 to 7 Weeks	Mother’s milk, begin to nibble on alfalfa hay and mother’s pellets	Small amounts of alfalfa pellets	None	None
7 Weeks to 7 Months (Juvenile/Growing)	Unlimited alfalfa hay (or mixed with timothy)	Unlimited alfalfa pellets (until 7 months)	Gradually introduce small amounts of various greens (one at a time) starting at 12 weeks.	Very minimal, if any.
7 Months to 6 Years (Adult)	Unlimited Timothy, Orchard, or Oat hay	1/8 to 1/4 cup per 6 lbs body weight (Timothy-based)	1-2 cups per 6 lbs body weight daily (variety of safe greens)	1-2 tablespoons per 6 lbs body weight, 2-3 times per week.
6 Years + (Senior)	Unlimited Timothy, Orchard, or Oat hay. May need softer hay if dental issues.	Adjust as needed. If underweight, may increase slightly. If overweight, decrease. Consult vet.	Daily greens are crucial.	As per adult guidelines, but monitor weight.

Always transition diet changes gradually over 1-2 weeks to avoid digestive upset. For specific concerns or dietary needs for sick or elderly rabbits, consult a rabbit-savvy veterinarian.

Introducing New Foods Safely

Rabbits have very sensitive digestive systems. Introducing new foods too quickly or in large quantities can lead to gas, diarrhea, or even life-threatening GI stasis. Follow these steps for safe introduction:

1. Start Small: Offer only one new vegetable or fruit at a time.
2. Tiny Portions: Begin with a very small piece, about the size of your thumbnail.
3. Monitor for 24-48 Hours: Watch for any changes in your rabbit’s droppings (soft stools, diarrhea) or behavior (lethargy, loss of appetite).
4. If All Good: If there are no adverse reactions, you can gradually increase the portion size over several days.
5. Rotate: Once a new food is established as safe, incorporate it into a rotation with other safe greens to provide variety.
6. Avoid Overdoing It: Even safe foods can cause problems if fed in excess. Stick to recommended daily amounts.

Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid

Understanding what to feed is one thing, but knowing what mistakes to avoid is equally important for your rabbit’s health.

• Not Enough Hay: This is the most common and dangerous mistake. Lack of hay leads to dental problems, GI stasis, and other serious health issues. Always provide unlimited, fresh hay.
• Too Many Pellets: Overfeeding pellets fills your rabbit up, making them less likely to eat hay. It also contributes to obesity and can lead to bladder sludge due to excess calcium.
• Too Many Treats/Fruits: High sugar content disrupts gut flora, leading to digestive upset, obesity, and diabetes-like conditions.
• Feeding “Muesli” Mixes: These colorful mixes encourage selective eating, where rabbits pick out the unhealthy, sugary bits and leave the fibrous parts. This is detrimental to their health.
• Lack of Water: Dehydration is a serious issue. Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.
• Sudden Diet Changes: Abrupt changes can shock a rabbit’s digestive system. Always introduce new foods or changes gradually.
• Ignoring Droppings: Your rabbit’s droppings are a great indicator of their health. Small, hard, or strung-together droppings (like beads on a string) can signal digestive problems. Diarrhea is an emergency.
• Feeding Contaminated Greens: Ensure all greens are washed thoroughly and free of pesticides.

The Link Between Diet and Rabbit Health

A proper diet is the cornerstone of your rabbit’s health, directly impacting their dental and digestive systems, which are particularly delicate in lagomorphs.

Dental Health

As mentioned, a rabbit’s teeth grow continuously. Hay’s abrasive action is essential for grinding down these teeth. Without sufficient hay, teeth can overgrow, leading to:

• Malocclusion: Misalignment of teeth, making it difficult or impossible for the rabbit to eat.
• Dental Spurs: Sharp points that develop on the molars, which can cut the tongue or cheeks, causing pain and infection.
• Abscesses: Infections that can form in the jaw due to overgrown teeth.

Dental problems are incredibly painful and can lead to a rabbit refusing to eat, which quickly becomes life-threatening. A hay-rich diet is the best preventative measure.

Digestive Health (Gastrointestinal Tract)

Rabbits have a unique digestive system that requires a constant flow of high-fiber food to function correctly. This process is called peristalsis. When the gut slows down or stops, it’s known as Gastrointestinal (GI) Stasis, a critical emergency.

• Fiber from Hay: Keeps the gut moving, prevents blockages, and promotes healthy gut bacteria.
• Water: Essential for moving food through the digestive tract and preventing dehydration.
• Appropriate Pellets/Greens: Provide necessary nutrients without overloading the system with sugar or starch, which can cause an imbalance of gut flora and lead to gas and stasis.

Signs of digestive issues include small or absent droppings, soft stools, diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. Any of these warrant immediate veterinary attention from a rabbit-savvy vet. For more in-depth information on rabbit health and care, resources like the House Rabbit Society offer valuable insights.

Understanding and implementing a proper diet is the single most important thing you can do for your rabbit’s long-term health and well-being. It prevents many common rabbit ailments and ensures a happy, active life for your beloved pet. Remember, a healthy bunny is a happy bunny!

FAQs About Feeding Your Pet Bunny

Q1: How much hay should I feed my rabbit daily?

A1: Your rabbit should have unlimited access to fresh hay every day. Hay should make up about 80-90% of their diet. Always ensure their hay rack or box is full.

Q2: Can I feed my rabbit fruits and vegetables from my garden?

A2: Yes, if they are safe varieties for rabbits and have not been treated with pesticides or herbicides. Always thoroughly wash any produce from your garden before feeding it to your bunny. Introduce new garden veggies slowly.

Q3: My rabbit stopped eating hay. What should I do?

A3: A rabbit refusing to eat hay is a serious concern and often indicates a health problem, such as dental issues or GI stasis. Contact a rabbit-savvy veterinarian immediately. In the meantime, ensure they have access to fresh water and try offering different types of hay to tempt them.

Q4: Are commercial rabbit treats safe for my bunny?

A4: Many commercial treats are high in sugar, fat, and artificial ingredients, which are unhealthy for rabbits. It’s best to avoid them or choose hay-based treats with no added sugar. Small pieces of fresh fruit or safe vegetables make much better, healthier treats.

Q5: How often should I change my rabbit’s water?

A5: You should change your rabbit’s water daily, even if it looks clean. Bowls and bottles should also be thoroughly cleaned daily to prevent bacterial growth and algae.

Q6: My rabbit is overweight. How can I help them lose weight?

A6: If your rabbit is overweight, reduce their pellet intake (ensure it’s within the recommended daily amount or slightly less if they’re very overweight) and increase their hay consumption. Ensure they get plenty of exercise. Never drastically cut food; consult your vet for a safe weight loss plan.

Q7: Can rabbits eat grass from my lawn?

A7: Yes, fresh, pesticide-free grass is an excellent addition to a rabbit’s diet. However, ensure it hasn’t been treated with chemicals and isn’t from an area frequented by other animals (like dogs or cats) to avoid parasites. Introduce it gradually if your rabbit isn’t used to it.

For other pet-related topics, you might find our article on 15 Best Dog Breeds for Kids and Families interesting!