When we think of bunnies, we picture them munching on carrots – a habit made famous by cartoons. But the truth is, carrots should only be an occasional treat, not the main part of their diet. Feeding your rabbit too much of it can actually harm their health.

To keep your furry friend happy and thriving, you need to understand the basics of rabbit nutrition and provide a balanced diet that supports their growth, energy and overall well-being.

What Should Rabbits Eat?

Ideally, a rabbit’s diet should be:

• 85% high fibre hay 
• 10% leafy green vegetables and herbs
• 5% fibre-rich rabbit pellets

Hay

Hay should always be at the heart of a rabbit’s diet. That’s because their digestive system relies on it to stay healthy. In the wild, rabbits graze on grasses and plants, mostly during dawn and dusk. It’s important you give your pet a similar experience, whether that’s fresh growing grass or high-quality dried hay.

It’s worth mentioning there’s a big difference between feeding hay and bedding hay. While both are dried grasses, feeding hay is fresher, greener and packed with more nutrients, making it tastier and healthier for your rabbit. Bedding hay is much drier and doesn’t provide the same nutritional benefits if nibbled on.

At the pet store, you’ll find different types of hay rabbit food to choose from. Timothy hay is the most common and is often recommended by vets, as it’s high in fibre, has balanced levels of protein and calcium and supports digestion and dental health. Orchard grass is another good option if your rabbit isn’t eating as much Timothy hay as it should – its softer texture and sweeter taste may be more appealing.

When choosing hay for your rabbit, always consider freshness, texture and variety. High-quality hay should smell sweet, look green rather than brown and be free of dust or mould. Offering a mix of different types can also keep your rabbit interested and ensure they’re getting the nutrition they need.

Green Vegetables and Herbs

Fresh greens are a must rabbit food in their daily diet. Ideally, your bunny should have 5-6 different types of vegetables or herbs a day. This keeps meal times interesting and ensures they get a wide range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants for overall health. A mix of leafy greens and herbs also provides extra hydration and keeps the digestive system in balance.

Some safe options to include regularly are carrot tops, cauliflower leaves, celery, chicory, courgette, mange tout, watercress, rocket, spinach, dark green cabbage, Brussels sprouts, broccoli and bell peppers. Herbs like basil, coriander, dill, mint, parsley and thyme are also great. Rotating these greens throughout the week will keep your rabbit’s diet both nutritious and exciting.

Fibre-Rich Rabbit Pellets

Alongside hay and fresh foods, rabbits can also have a small daily serving of fibre-rich pellets. About 1 tablespoon per rabbit per day is usually enough. It may not seem like much, but pellets are very concentrated, so a little goes a long way. Feeding too much can cause your rabbit to eat less hay, which is vital for their digestion and dental health. Over time, this can lead to serious problems like overgrown teeth or gut stasis. Even when you choose high-fibre pellets, it’s important to keep portions small.

When choosing rabbit pellets, it’s best to go for a high-quality brand that’s made specifically for rabbits. The ideal pellets should be high in fibre, at least 18-20% to keep your rabbit’s digestion running smoothly. They should also be low in protein and calcium to prevent urinary problems and weight gain.

Avoid mixes that include colourful bits, dried fruit, or seeds, as these can encourage selective feeding and aren’t good for your rabbit.

How Often Should Rabbits Be Fed?

Rabbits are natural grazers, so rather than serving just one big meal, it’s best to provide food throughout the day to mimic how they would eat in the wild. This routine not only supports good digestion but also keeps your rabbit mentally stimulated and satisfied. Hay and water should always be fresh. Fresh greens and herbs can be offered 1-2 times a day, divided into smaller portions to encourage grazing. Pellets should be given in small amounts, 1 time a day, to prevent overeating.

The Importance of Fresh Water

Fresh water is as important to a rabbit’s health as hay and greens, and should always be available to them at all times. Rabbits need constant access to clean water to stay hydrated, aid digestion, and regulate their body temperature. Without enough water, they will stop eating hay, which can quickly lead to serious digestive problems like gut stasis. Some rabbits prefer to drink from a bowl, others from a bottle, so it’s a good idea to offer both until you know your rabbit’s preference.

Do Rabbits Need Salt Licks?

Rabbits don’t need salt licks if they’re eating a balanced diet of hay, fresh greens and quality pellets, as these foods already provide the essential minerals they need. 

However, there are a few occasions where a salt or mineral lick might be beneficial. For example, if a rabbit’s diet is limited or homemade and may not provide enough trace minerals a mineral block can help fill the gap. They may also be useful for rabbits with higher mineral needs, such as those that are very active, breeding or nursing young. Even then, you should monitor your rabbit’s intake as too much salt can be harmful. Before offering a salt lick, always check with your vet to make sure it’s necessary for your rabbit’s individual diet and health.

What is Poisonous to a Rabbit?

Rabbits have very delicate digestive systems, so certain foods that seem harmless to us can actually be dangerous or even deadly for them. 

Never feed your rabbit processed or sugary foods such as bread, pasta, biscuits, chocolate or sweets, as these can cause serious digestive issues. Many common fruits and vegetables are also unsafe, including potatoes, rhubarb, onions, garlic, leeks and iceberg lettuce, which can all be toxic or upset the stomach. Houseplants and garden plants like lilies, daffodils, tulips and foxglove are also poisonous and should be kept well out of reach. Even foods marketed for small pets, like seed or nut mixes, are not suitable for rabbits. 

To keep your rabbit safe, stick to a diet of hay, fresh leafy greens and small amounts of pellets and always double check before offering any new food.

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Becky

Meet the award-nominated UK lifestyle blogger behind Spirited Puddle Jumper – a mum of three living in South East London! Becky shares the real ups and downs of family life, parenting tips, and lifestyle inspiration, proving that being a mum doesn’t mean you stop being fun or having other interests! Follow along for honest insights into UK family life and opinions on a whole range of topics, from travel and food, to beauty reviews, home and DIY, business and health and wellness.