What Human Food can Rabbits Eat? Rabbits are omnivorous eaters who appreciate eating fresh produce as part of a healthy diet. Fresh hay and water should make up the majority of a rabbit’s diet, although fruits and vegetables can make up 10 to 20% of its diet.
Fresh produce such as blueberries, arugula, basil, cilantro, endives, carrots and carrot tips, apples, and the majority of dark green vegetables are favorites of rabbits. While being relatively low in sugar and acid, fresh foods that are safe for rabbits are high in fiber, minerals, and vitamins.
Rotating fresh foods will ensure that your rabbit is offered a variety of nutrients. Since every rabbit is unique, some may not be able to tolerate all fruits and vegetables. Never feed more than a modest amount to your pet, and check for soft stools or diarrhoea within 24 hours.
Human Foods That Are Safe for Rabbits
| Food Type | Important Nutrients for Rabbits |
| Carrots (and carrot tops) | Fiber, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, vitamin K, folate, thiamin, potassium, niacin, and manganese |
| Dark Lettuce | Fiber, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, potassium, vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. |
| Celery | Folic acid, potassium, calcium and vitamins B1, B2, and B6. |
| Cilantro | Thiamin, zinc, folate, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin K, vitamin C, vitamin E, riboflavin, niacin, iron, calcium, and potassium. |
| Lemon Balm | Polyphenols and tannins. |
| Broccoli Leaves | Fiber, folate, vitamin A, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, iron, calcium, and selenium. |
| Pineapple | Enzyme, bromelain |
| Kale | Vitamins A and C, as well as magnesium, iron, and calcium. |
| Blueberries | Water, fiber, and antioxidants. |
| Bok Choy | Fiber, folate, vitamin A, thiamin, niacin, riboflavin, pantothenic acid, iron, and calcium. |
| Oats | Fiber |
| Basil | Vitamin A and K, and magnesium |
| Arugula | Calcium, folic acid, and fiber. |
| Bell Peppers | Vitamin A and water. |
| Asparagus | Vitamins A, C, E and K, as well as folate, and chromium. |
| Apples | Water, fiber, B-complex vitamins, and antioxidants. |
| Endives | Beta carotene, vitamin E, riboflavin, folate, and potassium. |
What Food Products Can Rabbits Eat?
While 80 to 90 percent of a rabbit’s diet should consist of hay, fresh food is also very important for your pet’s health. Fresh foods, such as fruits, and vegetables, contribute moisture to the diet of a rabbit. The health of the kidneys and bladder will benefit from this. Leafy greens should make up around 75% of your rabbit’s fresh food consumption; the remainder should be saved for treats like berries and apples.
Remember how sensitive their tummies are. Despite being healthy for humans, several foods can be poisonous to rabbits. So, whenever possible, refrain from letting your rabbit consume it. Rabbits enjoy eating and have keen taste buds. It’s your responsibility to keep kids safe because they frequently are open to trying anything, even hazardous things.
20 Human Food can Rabbits Eat:
1. Lettuce
Choose lettuce cultivars with darker leaves and more fiber, like romaine. These frequently have a little more fiber and are loaded with vitamins and minerals like folate, phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, and potassium. They provide a respectable level of moisture as well as being incredibly low in calories, which prevents your rabbit from becoming overweight.
You should avoid light-colored lettuce, especially iceberg lettuce, which may surprise most owners. Lactucarium, a substance found in iceberg lettuce, can be poisonous to rabbits if consumed. Additionally lacking in nutrients and primarily composed of water, iceberg lettuce is the most common light-colored lettuce.To prevent stomach problems, it’s crucial to introduce any safe lettuce for rabbits gradually. Large amounts of lettuce can upset your rabbit’s stomach and cause diarrhoea if it isn’t used to it.
2. Banana
It would appear that bananas aren’t just a favorite among monkeys. It is difficult to ignore when rabbits are ogling a piece of it with affection. In fact, rabbit owners would talk about how their pets would steal a bite to satisfy their needs.
They do enjoy the smell, flavor, and texture. But keep in mind that bananas must only be offered as a reward. As fruits, bananas have a high sugar content. Despite the fact that your rabbit might crave more, it’s wise to maintain moderation. Bananas are also beneficial for your rabbit, which is another factor to take into account. According to Joerg Mayer, eating things like bananas can reduce your risk of contracting diseases.
3. Celery
Vitamins B1, B2, and B6, as well as potassium, calcium, and folic acid, are all abundant in celery stalks. They can be provided to rabbits as a regular source of fresh food because they are safe for them. Phytochemicals found in celery can reduce blood pressure, reduce inflammation, and potentially prevent cancer. Rabbits can get plenty of water by eating celery.
Celery tops and leaves are safe for rabbits to eat as well. Bunnies generally adore them. You should be careful not to consume too many celery stalks and leaves, just like any other vegetable. In order to ensure that your rabbit receives a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, give celery in moderation and switch out fresh meals periodically.
Before giving your rabbit celery and celery tops, make sure you carefully wash them. It’s always important to be cautious because celery can be subjected to significant amounts of pesticides and toxins. Every time you feed your rabbit a new food, keep an eye on it to see if there are any digestive problems. If giving your rabbits celery or celery leaves results in diarrhoea or upset stomachs, stop feeding them.
4. Carrots
Everyone is aware that rabbits adore carrots, however, due to their high sugar content, whole carrots should not be consumed. Carrots are one meal that rabbits frequently prefer, but it’s important to simply give them sometimes or as a reward.
In rabbits, eating too many carrots can lead to obesity and intestinal problems. Carrots can provide a healthy dose of vitamin A when served as a treat. A rabbit’s diet should have plenty of vitamin A because it is helpful for maintaining eye health.
On the other hand, you can give rabbits additional carrot tips or leaves. Vitamins A, B6, C, K, folate, thiamin, potassium, niacin, and manganese are abundant in carrot tips. Radishes are the same way. Rabbits can’t eat radishes because they contain too much sugar, but their leaves are a great source of fiber and other minerals. Don’t give your bunnies any carrot roots because they contain a lot of sugar. Make sure to include the carrot tops in the daily diet of 3-6 different veggies that you should give your adult rabbit.
5. Cilantro
Since cilantro (coriander) contains a lot of vitamins and minerals, it is a safe herb for rabbits to consume. Rabbits can eat fresh cilantro, which has few calories but is high in thiamin, zinc, folate, and vitamins A, B6, C, and E. It also contains iron, calcium, potassium, and niacin.
For rabbits, cilantro is a great source of magnesium, which is good for the heart. Nutrition Research claims that a lack of magnesium can cause plaque to accumulate around the heart. Atherosclerosis is the medical term for this issue.
The flavor of cilantro is intense. T, thus you ought to give it to your rabbit in small doses. Wait 24 hours before reintroducing cilantro to your pet’s food to see whether they get used to it. If your pet rabbit exhibits any abnormal behavior after receiving cilantro, cease giving it the herb right away.
6. Pineapple
The pineapple’s center, which is frequently discarded, contains the highest concentration of the bromelain enzyme. In rabbits with diarrhoea, bromelain can lessen the amount of intestinal fluid released. When given to rabbits while they are molting, bromelain is particularly helpful because it is also recognized for reducing hairballs.
Always serve fresh pineapple centers rather than frozen ones since the former has more potent enzymes. Offer pineapple as a treat in moderation, as with any fruit. Pineapple contains a lot of sugar, so giving pets too much of it might result in obesity, diarrhoea, and digestive problems. As an acidic fruit, pineapple can damage your rabbit’s teeth if consumed in excess.
7. Lemon balm
Rabbits can safely consume lemon balm, and doing so is advised to maintain good health. Strong antiviral and antibacterial activities are present in lemon balm. It has high levels of polyphenols and tannins and aids those who are experiencing gas, bloating, diarrhoea, tension, and anxiety.
Check to determine if your rabbit enjoys the lemon balm after you’ve given it a small amount to eat. Next, keep an eye out for any issues during the following 48 hours. You can give lemon balm to your rabbit every day if it doesn’t exhibit any strange symptoms.
8. Broccoli Leaves
Because broccoli leaves are low in calories and high in fibre, they make a great fresh food option for your rabbit. Broccoli leaves are eligible for the 75% of leafy greens designated for rabbits. Broccoli leaves are regarded as a contemporary superfood for both people and rabbits.
They include plenty of iron, calcium, selenium, pantothenic acid, folate, vitamin A, thiamin, niacin, and riboflavin. To ensure that your rabbit receives a variety of nutrients, just mix broccoli leaves with other leafy greens.
9. Kale
Along with broccoli, collard greens, brussels sprouts, and arugula, kale is a cruciferous vegetable. It contains a lot of vitamin A, which promotes healthy skin and fur as well as protects vision. Rabbits can make their own vitamin C, so they don’t require much of it in their diet, even though kale is also a good source of vitamin C and K. The immune system of a rabbit is supported by vitamin C, which also keeps your pet’s body moisturized.
Other essential elements like iron, calcium, and magnesium are also abundant in kale. Although kale is a human nutrient powerhouse, rabbits should only be given it as a treat. The painful bloating, gas, and diarrhoea can result from eating too much kale or any other cruciferous vegetable in rabbits.
10. Blueberries
Rabbits must never be given any fruit with seeds. The microscopic size of blueberry seeds, however, makes it unlikely that they will have any negative effects on the digestive health of your pet rabbit. Remove the seeds from fresh blueberries and just feed the pulp if you want to be on the safe side.
The fruit blueberries are a great treat for rabbits. To strengthen your bond and friendship with your pet, you can feed them by hand. Minerals and antioxidants found in abundance in blueberries help healthy brain function and cell regeneration. Blueberries, in contrast to most fruits, have a low glycemic index. In other words, they contain less sugar and will deliver energy gradually.
Despite their health advantages, blueberries are still considered treats for rabbits, so you should never overeat them. It’s not necessary to give your rabbit a full bowl of blueberries. A pet rabbit can enjoy a delicious snack of 1 to 2 blueberries.
Frozen blueberries should never be chosen over fresh ones. Before offering the berries to your rabbit, make sure to thoroughly wash them. Stop giving your rabbit blueberries if it starts to have diarrhoea, and consult your veterinarian right away.
11. Thyme
Thyme is another herb that has benefits. The ones you feed should ideally be young and fresh. But dried ones will work. Who knows, your rabbit might develop a romantic interest in the aroma it releases.
Additionally, this can treat any digestive problems, particularly diarrhoea. Even though it is therapeutic, your rabbit’s diet shouldn’t consist primarily of thyme. It’s simply offered so your rabbit can get the nutrients it needs from a different source.
12. Choy bok
Bok choy is more suited for adult rabbits after they reach the age of six months since it has low levels of oxalic acid. Never feed fresh meals to rabbits until they are 6 months old. Bok choy may contain dangerous chemicals and pesticides.
Permethrins are a class of insecticides that, according to the Journal of Entomology and Zoology Studies, can be fatal to rabbits and induce neurological problems when consumed. Therefore, always thoroughly wash the leaves before giving them to your pet, preferably by soaking them in water for a few hours.
13. Basil
Rabbits can safely consume basil, which has potent antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities. It contains a lot of calcium and vitamin K and is simple for a rabbit’s stomach to digest. Additionally rich in flavonoids, basil shields the rabbit’s body from harm from metabolic waste. Basil must be rotated with other fresh herbs and vegetables, just like any other fresh food.
14. Spinach
Not just Popeye has developed a taste for spinach. This goodie may end up being beloved by countless rabbits. As a green vegetable, spinach is loaded with nutrients, and rabbits can have it once or twice a week. Although rabbits may consume this diet, spinach contains a high amount of oxalate.
Kidney stones may develop if consumed in excess. So set a restriction on how much it can be.
15. Oats
Oatmeal is inexpensive, widely accessible, easily absorbed, and helps regulate rising insulin levels. Additionally, it lowers the danger of diabetes and insulin resistance. It’s perfect for rabbits that are underweight. In order to swiftly restore the health and weight of underweight rabbits, rescues and animal shelters frequently feed them oatmeal.
However, if your rabbit is a healthy weight, it probably won’t require any oatmeal. Since oatmeal is high in calories, an adult rabbit should have a diet that is low in calories and high in fiber. If rabbits are given excessive amounts of oats, they may gain weight. In more severe situations, this can result in problems with the heart, lungs, diabetes, and fatty liver disease.
It’s also crucial to keep in mind that you should never serve cooked food, including oatmeal, to rabbits. Oatmeal that has been cooked has a lot of starch, which might upset a rabbit’s stomach. Just a few grains of raw, rolled oats are better to give your adult rabbit as a treat. If your rabbit is underweight, only give it oats. If your rabbit is in good shape, a tiny amount of rolled oats every now and again can provide a tasty treat.
16. Arugula
Arugula is a leafy, dark green salad vegetable that is available in practically all supermarkets and grocery stores. Calcium is abundant in arugula, which helps rabbits have stronger bones and teeth. Additionally, it has a lot of folic acid, or vitamin B9, which protects rabbits from heart disease. The Tohoku Journal of Experimental Medicine states that folic acid is a necessary ingredient that should be supplied to rabbits through a diet high in leafy greens.
Additionally, arugula has trace levels of water, protein, and fibre. 2-3 times per week, give your rabbit modest amounts of arugula. Arugula should not be consumed in excess since this can cause the body’s calcium levels to rise dangerously.
17. Bell Peppers
Rabbits enjoy eating sweet foods a lot. Red, green, yellow, and orange peppers, among other sweet vegetables, can be moderately fed to rabbits. Despite being sweet, they don’t have a lot of added sugar or calories. Never give your rabbit bell peppers that have been seeded or have the core left in.
The core and seeds are not poisonous, however, they do not provide your rabbit with any nutritional value. Most likely, the core and seeds won’t be able to be broken down by your rabbit’s digestive system, causing a clog. Although uncommon, this poses a life-threatening risk to rabbits. Therefore, feeding your rabbit nothing but the flesh of a bell pepper would be your best option.
Therefore, feeding your rabbit nothing but the flesh of a bell pepper would be your best option. You might be wondering if you can feed your rabbit pepper leaves if you produce bell peppers in your yard. Never give your rabbit any leaves from the nightshade family to eat.
Tomatoes and peppers are included in this. Nightshade plants should ideally be fenced off from rabbits. Additionally, bear in mind that not all peppers are created equal. Rabbits cannot tolerate jalapeno peppers or other hot or spicy peppers.
18. Endives
Beta carotene, vitamin E, riboflavin, folate, and potassium are all abundant in endives. They also have respectable amounts of iron, calcium, and magnesium, all of which help rabbits grow and maintain healthy bones. Endives are a great food for rabbits’ liver health since they are high in B vitamins. Just be sure to serve endives to your pet rabbit together with other fresh foods.
19. Asparagus
Asparagus is low in calories and abundant in fibre and water. As a result, it makes a great snack. The vitamins A, C, E, and K, as well as folate and chromium, are all abundant in asparagus. A trace mineral called chromium makes insulin more effective at carrying glucose from the bloodstream to the cells.
Always use moderation while giving your rabbits asparagus, and switch up the vegetables you provide. Rabbits enjoy trying new things every day. It’s crucial to occasionally switch things up to keep them interested and to make sure they’re getting all the nutrients they need.
Always leave the skin on when feeding apples because that is where the majority of the nutrients are located. The stem, seeds, and core should all be removed because they contain cyanide. Cyanide can cause convulsions, diarrhoea, upset stomach, and even death in rabbits when consumed in larger doses.
20. Dill
Which dill plant component should my rabbit eat? He can graze on these components of the herb, so there’s no waste:
- Stems
- Leaves
- Flowers
The herb dill is a good provider of nutrients, just like the other herbs. So don’t hesitate to combine it with hay and commercial rabbit pellets. Riboflavin, vitamins, manganese, calcium, iron, zinc, and other elements are discussed. Don’t forget to leave some dill for your rabbit the next time you add it to your salad.
Fruits and vegetables are not tolerated by the stomach of Rabbits
It is not alarming if your rabbit cannot tolerate fresh foods or vegetables. Hay, which should comprise 80 to 90% of your rabbit’s food, is a great source of protein, calcium, and other essential elements as well as vitamins A and D. You also don’t need to be concerned about your rabbit’s vitamin C consumption. Rabbits naturally make their own vitamin C, in contrast to humans who must get their vitamin C from their diet.
Additionally, you may always add pellets to the diet of your rabbit. When it comes to a young rabbit’s diet, it’s best to start introducing veggies when the animal is at least 6 to 8 weeks old. Make sure your rabbit consumes some grass hay for at least two weeks before introducing any kind of fresh food to its diet.
Always add new things gradually to your rabbit’s diet to give its body time to acclimatize. It is sufficient to determine whether your rabbit tolerates a particular sort of fresh food 12 hours after eating it. If a vegetable or fruit is intolerable to your rabbit, it will result in loose stools or diarrhoea.
If your rabbit reacts poorly to any new meal, remove it right away and try something else. Never attempt something new again for six days. Additionally, you don’t want to over-chop the vegetables for your rabbit. Because it helps them wear down their teeth, rabbits prefer to munch on complete pieces. To avoid choking on strings from vegetables like celery, it is important to chop them into smaller pieces.
