What Do Rabbits Really Eat? : Rabbit Care

TL;DR

Rabbits primarily eat hay (70% of their diet), followed by fresh greens and a small amount of pelleted food.

Transcript

hi I'm Judith Pierce from San Diego House Rabbit society and today we're going to talk about what do rabbits really eat so we've got a display of things here that rabbits do eat the biggest part of their diet is hay and they're actually sitting in a litter box here with lots of hay in it and that's going to be the primary part of their diet you rea... Read More

Key Insights

• 🐰 Hay should be the primary component of a rabbit's diet, making up about 70% of their daily intake.
• ✋ Timothy grass or Orchard Grass are ideal choices for hay, while alfalfa hay should be avoided due to its high calorie and protein content.
• 💚 Fresh greens, like kale and lettuce, provide essential nutrients for rabbits' overall health.
• 😋 Pelleted food should be plain and limited in quantity to avoid excessive fat and calories.
• 🧑‍⚕️ Sugary treats and excessive fruit consumption can negatively impact a rabbit's health.
• ❓ It is recommended to wash and provide organic veggies whenever possible.
• 🤑 Rabbits do not need excessive quantities of pellets and can benefit more from a hay-rich diet.

Questions & Answers

Q: What should be the main component of a rabbit's diet?

Hay should make up about 70% of a rabbit's daily diet, with Timothy grass or Orchard Grass being the best options. It provides important fiber for their digestion and dental health.

Q: Can rabbits eat vegetables and greens?

Yes, rabbits should have a variety of fresh greens in their diet, including kale, lettuce, parsley, and dandelion. These provide essential nutrients and keep their diet interesting.

Q: How much pelleted food should rabbits have?

A small amount of plain pelleted food is recommended, usually around 1/4 cup per day for two bunnies. This helps provide additional vitamins and minerals that may be lacking in hay and greens.

Q: What treats are suitable for rabbits?

It is best to stick to small treats like the one shown in the video, given in moderation. Stay away from sugary treats or those containing dried fruits, seeds, or nuts. Carrots should also be given sparingly due to their high sugar content.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Hay should make up 70% of a rabbit's daily diet, specifically Timothy grass or Orchard Grass.

• Fresh greens, such as kale, lettuce, parsley, and dandelion, should be included in their diet.

• A small amount of plain pelleted food can round out their diet with essential vitamins and minerals.