When it comes to a rabbit's diet, the majority should consist of hay and grass, supplemented with rabbit-safe pellets and fresh leafy green vegetables. It's important to rotate the choice of fruits and vegetables to maximize nutritional benefits and prevent tummy issues. Always wash the produce to remove any harmful chemicals and dispose of any uneaten food promptly. Additionally, slowly introduce new foods to avoid upsetting your rabbit's digestive system, and never feed them anything that is mouldy or past its best.

Can Rabbits Eat Lettuce?

Yes, rabbits can eat lettuce, but some types are better for them than others. The best lettuce varieties are romaine, red leaf lettuce, and butterhead. Not only are they higher in fibre and nutrients compared to other lettuce varieties like iceberg, they’re also often preferred by rabbits.

Too much iceberg lettuce can cause tummy upset and diarrhoea. It has a very high-water content, low nutritional value and contains lactucarium, which can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. Dark leafy greens should make up 5-10% of a rabbit’s diet. They’re rich in soluble fibre that maintains a healthy digestive system and prevents blockages.

Can Rabbits Eat Kale?

Yes, but it should be fed in moderation. It’s high in calcium, which can cause kidney issues in rabbits. If your rabbit already has a kidney problem, avoid kale completely. To prevent problems, leave at least a two-day gap between kale servings. 

There are lots of health benefits to rabbit’s eating this superfood! It’s packed full of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, C and K, which support the immune system and bone health. The fibre content also promotes good gut health. Introduce kale into your rabbit’s diet slowly and keep an eye out for signs of tummy upset.

Can Rabbits Eat Parsnip?

Raw parsnips can be given to rabbits as a tasty treat. They have a high sugar and starch content so should be given in moderation to avoid obesity and digestive issues. Wash and peel the parsnip to remove soil, pesticides and other harmful chemicals that may be on the surface. 

Chop parsnips into small pieces to make them easier for your rabbit to eat and to prevent choking hazards. Only treat your rabbit to a small amount of parsnip once a week. Parsnips are a source of fibre, vitamin C, K, and folate.

Can Rabbits Eat Pumpkin?

Yes, it’s safe for rabbits to eat pumpkin but in moderation. Remove the skin, seeds, and stringy centre first as they can be a choking hazard and difficult for rabbits to digest, so could cause a blockage. Pumpkin is low in calories and fat, but it does contain sugar. It’s high in vitamin A, B, C and E, as well as minerals and fibre. 

Never feed rabbits canned or cooked pumpkin. Although it’s safe for rabbits to eat pumpkin, there are more nutritious and beneficial fruit and vegetables options, so keep it as a seasonal treat.

Can Rabbits Eat Watermelon?

Yes, watermelon can be enjoyed by rabbits and makes a great summer treat. Its high-water content will help keep your rabbit hydrated during hot weather. Don’t give your rabbit the rind as it can be difficult to digest and can cause a blockage. The seeds should also be removed as they could pose a choking hazard or cause digestive issues if too many are eaten. 

Watermelons are full of vitamins and minerals that contribute to healthy skin, vision, bone, immune system, heart, and nervous system. It’s also full of fibre, which promotes good gut health.

Can Rabbits Eat Cauliflower?

Cauliflower can be eaten by rabbits, but it should only be given in small amounts on the odd occasion. Much like broccoli and cabbage, too much cauliflower can cause gas, bloating and diarrhoea. 

Your rabbit can enjoy both the florets and leaves which are packed with nutrients like vitamin A, C and K which help to maintain a healthy immune system and bone health. It’s also high in fibre which aids digestion. When introducing cauliflower to your rabbit’s diet, do it slowly to avoid causing a tummy upset. Stop feeding cauliflower to your rabbit if it suffers from bloat, gas, or diarrhoea.

Everypaw Rabbit Insurance

Here at Everypaw, we want to help you keep your bunny healthy and in tip top shape. So, when it comes to your young rabbit’s care, Everypaw’s Rabbit Insurance could be just the cover to look after your little thumper.

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Content provided from Vetstream's Vetlexicon Lapis – www.vetlexicon.com/treat/lapis

Vetlexicon is the world’s largest peer-reviewed online clinical reference source. All our content is written and peer-reviewed by over 1,000 of the world’s leading veterinarians, ensuring relevance, accuracy and quality.