Rabbits may look like simple hay munchers, but their diet is anything but basic. A well-balanced, species-appropriate diet is critical for their digestion, dental health, and long-term well-being.
Whether you're a new bunny parent or just want to improve your rabbit's nutrition, this guide covers everything rabbits should (and shouldn’t) eat.
🌾 1. Hay – The Main Course
Hay should make up 80–90% of a rabbit’s daily diet.
Why Hay is Essential:
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Supports healthy digestion
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Keeps teeth naturally worn down
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Prevents gastrointestinal stasis
Best Types of Hay:
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Timothy Hay (most recommended)
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Meadow Hay
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Orchard Grass
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Oat Hay
🔸 Avoid: Alfalfa hay for adult rabbits — it’s too high in calcium and protein.
🥬 2. Fresh Leafy Greens – Daily Variety
Fresh veggies should be 10–15% of the diet. Rotate different greens to provide nutrition and avoid boredom.
Rabbit-safe greens (daily):
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Romaine lettuce
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Cilantro
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Parsley
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Dandelion greens
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Kale (in moderation)
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Basil
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Swiss chard
🔸 Avoid: Iceberg lettuce (too watery), rhubarb, and potatoes.
🥕 3. Vegetables and Fruits – Occasional Treats
Veggies like carrots are treats — not staples! Too much sugar can lead to obesity and digestive upset.
Safe treats (2–3 times a week):
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Carrot slices
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Bell pepper
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Broccoli leaves
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Apple slices (no seeds)
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Banana (tiny pieces)
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Strawberries or blueberries
🛑 Never feed: avocado, onion, garlic, grapes with seeds, or anything processed.
🥣 4. Pellets – Small, High-Quality Portions
Pellets are supplements, not the main meal.
Choose:
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High-fiber pellets (at least 18%)
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No added seeds, nuts, or colorful bits
Serving Size:
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1/8 to 1/4 cup per 5 lbs. of body weight (daily)
💧 5. Fresh Water – Always Available
Rabbits need constant access to clean water. Use a heavy bowl or bottle and refresh daily.
⚠️ What NOT to Feed Rabbits
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Bread, pasta, crackers
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Sugary or salty snacks
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Chocolate (toxic!)
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Dairy or meat
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Lawn clippings or houseplants (unless rabbit-safe)
✅ Sample Daily Diet Plan
| Time of Day | Food Type |
|---|---|
| Morning | Unlimited Timothy Hay |
| Noon | Handful of fresh greens |
| Evening | Small serving of pellets |
| Night | Tiny fruit/veggie treat |
Final Thoughts
Feeding your rabbit isn’t just about keeping them full — it’s about keeping them thriving. With the right balance of hay, greens, and the occasional treat, your bunny can enjoy a long, healthy, and hoppy life.
🐇 “Healthy diet = Happy bunny.”
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