Rabbit Breeders

Most people think of rabbit and think of carrots, but the immediate connation to a rabbit and a carrot is actually a Bugs Bunny myth as rabbits do not actually enjoy the carrot as much as they do the green stems on top.

This guideline is actually true of most foods that rabbits need and like as they are strict herbivores that prefer green items over anything else.  Of course, you cannot expect to feed your rabbit just green carrot stems, but it is a good line to follow as it may make you think before immediately tossing a vegetable into the rabbit cage.

Another misconception especially at pet shops is that rabbits only need a pellet diet to survive.  In fact, while rabbits may be fed pellets as a part of their diet, they should only eat about 4-6 ounces per day and need supplemental items to aid their digestion as rabbits have a slightly complicated digestive system.

For the healthiest rabbit, pellets should be alfalfa based with an alfalfa or clean hay supplement along with the pellets. Hay has plenty of nutrients that your rabbit needs and contains a high amount of fibre which helps them digest their food properly. The nutrients in hay also help to prevent the growth of hairballs within a rabbit’s stomach which is a common health problem for rabbits.

Outside of pellets and hay, rabbits also enjoy vegetables such as cabbage, romaine lettuce, spinach, alfalfa, light breads, small tree growths, and a few fruits such as apples and orange peels.

Apples are actually an excellent choice of treats to feed a rabbit as they enjoy the sweet taste and have a hard surface to help grind their teeth on.  Rabbits are large gnawers so you need to provide them with something to gnaw on otherwise they will become destructive and bored easily. Small planks of wood and salt rounds are also excellent ways to provide your rabbit with a healthy treat that will keep their teeth rounded down.