If you’ve ever asked yourself “what do rabbits eat?”, you’re not alone. Rabbits have sensitive digestive systems, and their diet must be carefully balanced to keep them healthy. Feeding the wrong foods can lead to serious problems, while the right foods ensure a long, active, and happy life. This guide explains exactly what rabbits eat, what to avoid, and how to create a healthy diet plan.
The Basics of a Rabbit’s Diet
Rabbits are herbivores. Their diet should be built around high-fiber, natural foods that mimic what they would eat in the wild.
- Hay (70–80% of diet): Unlimited Timothy, Orchard, or Meadow hay is essential. It keeps digestion healthy and wears down teeth.
- Fresh Vegetables (10–15%): Leafy greens like romaine lettuce, cilantro, parsley, and kale (in moderation).
- Pellets (5%): High-fiber rabbit pellets provide balanced nutrients but should only be a small part of the diet.
- Fresh Fruit (treat only – less than 5%): Apples, bananas, strawberries, and blueberries. Always in small amounts due to sugar.
- Water: Fresh, clean water should always be available.
Safe Foods for Rabbits
- Leafy Greens: Romaine lettuce, kale (small amounts), bok choy, spinach (limited), and dandelion greens.
- Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, basil, dill, mint.
- Vegetables: Bell peppers, carrots (sparingly), cucumber, zucchini, broccoli leaves.
- Fruits (occasional treats): Apple slices (no seeds), bananas, strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pear.
Foods to Avoid
Some foods are unsafe and can harm your rabbit:
- Iceberg lettuce (contains lactucarium, can cause digestive issues)
- Avocado (toxic to rabbits)
- Onions, garlic, chives (cause blood issues)
- Chocolate and sweets (toxic and dangerous)
- Processed human foods like bread, chips, or cereal
- Beans, peas, corn, and potatoes (difficult to digest)
How Much Should Rabbits Eat?
- Hay: Unlimited, fresh supply daily.
- Pellets: About 1/4 cup per 5 pounds of body weight per day (adult rabbits).
- Greens: 1–2 cups of fresh leafy greens per 5 pounds of body weight daily.
- Fruit: Only a tablespoon-sized portion a few times per week.
Feeding by Age
- Baby Rabbits (under 1 year): Alfalfa hay and alfalfa-based pellets for growth, transitioning to Timothy hay around 7 months.
- Adult Rabbits (1+ years): Timothy hay as the main diet, limited pellets, daily vegetables.
- Senior Rabbits (6+ years): Same as adults but monitor weight and adjust portions as needed.
Example Daily Diet for an Adult Rabbit
- Unlimited Timothy hay
- 1/4 cup high-fiber pellets
- 2 cups fresh leafy greens (like romaine, parsley, cilantro)
- Small treat of fruit (like a slice of apple or banana)
- Fresh water at all times
💡 Pro Tip
A healthy diet only works if your rabbit also has enough space to move and exercise. Use the free
Rabbit Cage Size Calculator to make sure your rabbit’s cage is large enough to support an active lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can rabbits eat carrots?
Yes, but only in small amounts. Carrots are high in sugar and should be considered a treat.
Do rabbits need salt licks?
No. A proper diet provides all the nutrients they need, so salt licks are unnecessary.
Can rabbits eat grass from the yard?
Yes, but only if it’s free of pesticides, herbicides, and chemicals.
What vegetables should I avoid?
Avoid iceberg lettuce, beans, potatoes, onions, and anything high in starch or toxins.
Can I feed my rabbit fruit daily?
No. Fruits should only be given as an occasional treat, not part of their daily diet.
Conclusion
So, what do rabbits eat? The answer is simple: mostly hay, with fresh greens, small portions of pellets, and fruit only as a treat. A balanced diet will keep your rabbit’s teeth, digestion, and energy in perfect condition. Combine this with a spacious cage, safe toys, and regular playtime to ensure a happy bunny.
Before you make any changes to your rabbit’s feeding plan, always make sure their living environment matches their needs too. Use the
Rabbit Cage Size Calculator today to give your bunny both the food and space it deserves.