One of the most common questions new rabbit owners ask is: “Do rabbits eat grass?” The answer is yes—grass is perfectly safe and healthy for rabbits when introduced correctly. In fact, it’s one of the most natural foods they can eat, since wild rabbits graze on grass daily. However, not all grass is safe, and there are important rules to follow when feeding it. This guide explains the benefits, precautions, and best ways to feed grass to your rabbit. And remember—besides diet, rabbits also need space to hop and graze comfortably. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to make sure your housing setup provides enough room.
Quick Answer
Yes, rabbits can eat grass. It’s natural, healthy, and full of fiber. But it must be free from chemicals, pesticides, and pollution. Never feed grass clippings from a lawnmower, as these ferment quickly and can cause digestive problems.
Benefits of Grass for Rabbits
- High in Fiber: Helps digestion and prevents gastrointestinal stasis (GI stasis).
- Good for Teeth: Constant chewing on grass helps wear down continuously growing rabbit teeth.
- Natural Foraging: Eating fresh grass mimics wild rabbit behavior and keeps them mentally stimulated.
- Low in Calories: A great food for keeping rabbits healthy without excess weight gain.
Safety Precautions When Feeding Grass
- Introduce Slowly: Sudden changes in diet can upset your rabbit’s stomach.
- No Lawn Clippings: Never feed grass cut by a lawnmower—it ferments quickly and can cause gas and bloating.
- Check for Chemicals: Only use grass that hasn’t been sprayed with pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers.
- Avoid Roadside Grass: Roadside grass can contain pollution and toxins.
- Mix with Hay: Grass is great, but it should not replace unlimited hay in your rabbit’s diet.
How to Feed Grass to Rabbits
- Freshly Picked Grass: Offer small handfuls daily, gradually increasing the amount.
- Outdoor Grazing: Allow supervised time in a secure run or pen on untreated grass.
- Potted Grass: Grow safe grass indoors in pots for year-round feeding.
💡 Tip: If your rabbits spend time outside grazing, ensure their pen is large enough for safe exploration. Use the Cage Size Calculator to plan the right enclosure size.
Best Products for Feeding Grass & Hay
STKYGOOD Metal Hay & Grass Feeder
Why it’s great: Keeps hay and grass clean, chew-proof, and easy to access.
- Pros: Durable, prevents waste, large capacity.
- Cons: More expensive than plastic racks.
Niteangel Grass Mat
Why it’s great: Provides a natural grass surface for chewing and resting.
- Pros: Safe, edible, inexpensive.
- Cons: Wears out quickly with heavy chewers.
Oxbow Western Timothy Hay
Why it’s great: Essential for digestion and dental health, available year-round.
- Pros: Fresh, high fiber, recommended by vets.
- Cons: Costs more than backyard grass, but safer.
Living World Hay Wheel
Why it’s great: Doubles as a feeder and enrichment toy for grass and hay.
- Pros: Interactive, fun, encourages foraging.
- Cons: Holds less than a traditional feeder.
Small Pet Select Hay
Why it’s great: Premium hay option for rabbits that are picky eaters.
- Pros: Fresh, high-quality, highly palatable.
- Cons: Higher cost compared to farm hay.
Lixit Wide-Mouth Water Bottle
Why it’s great: Hydration is crucial when feeding fresh grass and hay.
- Pros: Durable, large size, easy to mount.
- Cons: Needs regular cleaning to prevent algae.
Comparison Table
| Product | Main Benefit | Best For | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
| STKYGOOD Hay Feeder | Clean feeding | Hay & grass storage | See Price |
| Niteangel Grass Mat | Chew-safe flooring | Chewers & enrichment | See Price |
| Oxbow Timothy Hay | Digestive health | All rabbits | See Price |
| Living World Hay Wheel | Foraging fun | Interactive feeding | See Price |
| Small Pet Select Hay | Premium forage | Picky eaters | See Price |
| Lixit Water Bottle | Hydration | All setups | See Price |
FAQ
Can rabbits eat grass every day?
Yes, rabbits can eat grass daily, but it should complement unlimited hay, not replace it.
Is lawnmower grass safe for rabbits?
No. Grass clippings ferment quickly, which can cause bloating and digestive illness.
Can baby rabbits eat grass?
Yes, but only after 12 weeks of age, and grass should be introduced gradually.
Can rabbits eat dried grass?
Yes. Dried grass is essentially hay, which is a rabbit’s primary food source.
How do I safely let my rabbit graze outdoors?
Use a secure, predator-proof run or playpen on untreated grass. Never leave rabbits unsupervised.
Conclusion
Rabbits can safely eat grass, and it’s one of the healthiest foods you can give them. As long as it’s free from chemicals and introduced gradually, fresh grass supports digestion, dental health, and natural behavior. Just remember—grass is an addition to hay, not a replacement.
👉 Planning to let your rabbits graze outside? Make sure they have enough safe space. Use the Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to design the right hutch or run for your rabbits’ needs.
Final Tip: A mix of hay, grass, pellets, and greens gives your rabbit the perfect diet for long-term health.