Top 10 Foods Rabbits Should Avoid: A Comprehensive List

Rabbit Diet Restrictions

1. Foods to Avoid

It is important not to feed rabbits certain types of food. Avoid giving them bok choy and eggplant, as bok choy contains high levels of alkaline substances which can cause diarrhea in rabbits. Also, potatoes are difficult for rabbits to digest and can cause poisoning due to their tendency to sprout. Additionally, unripe tomatoes should never be given to rabbits, as they contain toxins that can lead to poisoning. Furthermore, onions, garlic, and various spices are not suitable for rabbits. There are many other vegetables rabbits should not eat, which are not listed here. Generally, rabbits can eat common leafy greens and carrots, but owners must be cautious about not feeding them processed foods.

2. Feeding Tips

When feeding rabbits with vegetables picked from the garden, it is crucial to wash and dry them thoroughly before serving. Never feed rabbits unclean or moist vegetables, as this can easily lead to illnesses. If owners are harvesting grass for rabbits, it should be done on a sunny day after the dew has dried, ensuring that the grass is clean and does not require washing. In summary, all food given to rabbits must be clean and fresh, avoiding any that is stale or moldy, as these can easily make rabbits sick.

3. Water Intake

While rabbits should not consume vegetables with moisture, this does not mean they cannot drink water. Contrary to popular belief, rabbits can and should have access to water daily. It is essential for owners to ensure that the water is clean and to change it daily. The amount of water rabbits drink should be moderate, and owners can adjust this based on the quantity of vegetables the rabbits consume.

4. Common Rabbit Foods

Rabbits primarily eat grass, including species such as clover, legume, and grass family forages. They particularly enjoy fresh grasses like Timothy hay. However, it is also important to provide rabbits with a moderate amount of dry hay to help them file their teeth, preventing overgrowth. Suitable moist foods for rabbits include radishes, carrots, pumpkins, and sweet potatoes. Additionally, rabbits should be given a small amount of concentrated feed, such as fish meal or soybean meal.

Pet Doctor's Tip: Rabbits have a delicate digestive system, so their dietary needs are quite specific. Despite their tendency to overeat, it is crucial for owners to manage their rabbits' diets carefully and feed them appropriately.