If you’re a new rabbit owner or thinking about getting one, a big question you may have is: What do rabbits eat? Rabbits have very sensitive stomachs, and feeding them the right food is the key to their health and happiness.
In this complete guide, you’ll learn:
- What foods are safe for rabbits
- What they should eat daily
- What foods to avoid
- How much to feed
- And how to create a healthy meal plan
Let’s get started!
Rabbit Care for Beginners: Everything You Need to Know to Raise a Happy Bunny
1. What Do Rabbits Eat in the Wild?
In the wild, rabbits mostly eat:
- Grasses
- Leaves
- Weeds
- Twigs and bark (especially in winter)
This diet is high in fiber and helps wear down their teeth, which grow all the time.
So, when caring for pet rabbits, we must try to copy their natural diet as much as possible.
2. Basic Rabbit Diet
A healthy pet rabbit’s diet should be:
- 80–85% hay
- 10–15% fresh leafy greens and vegetables
- 5% high-quality pellets
- Small amount of fruit (as a treat)
- Fresh water all day
3. Hay – The Most Important Food
Hay is the #1 food for rabbits. It helps with digestion and keeps their teeth healthy.
🐰 Best Types of Hay for Rabbits
- Timothy hay (best for adult rabbits)
- Orchard grass
- Meadow hay
- Alfalfa hay (for baby rabbits only; too rich for adults)
🧺 Tips:
- Give fresh hay every day
- Put it in a hay rack or basket
- Keep hay dry and clean
4. Fresh Vegetables for Rabbits
Leafy greens give your rabbit important nutrients and hydration.
🥬 Best Vegetables for Rabbits
Give 2–4 cups daily (based on size):
- Romaine lettuce
- Kale (in moderation)
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Basil
- Carrot tops
- Bok choy
- Mint
- Spinach (only sometimes, not daily)
⚠️ Avoid These Veggies
- Iceberg lettuce (has too much water, no nutrients)
- Onions
- Garlic
- Leeks
- Potato leaves
5. Safe Fruits as Treats
Fruits are high in sugar, so only give small amounts a few times per week.
🍎 Safe Fruits
- Apple (no seeds)
- Banana (tiny piece)
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Pineapple
- Melon
🛑 Avoid: Grapes, cherries (pits), avocado, citrus (too acidic)
6. Rabbit Pellets – Good or Bad?
Pellets are optional and should only be a small part of the diet.
✔️ Choose:
- Plain pellets (no colorful bits)
- High in fiber (18% or more)
- No added sugars
Give about 1/8 to 1/4 cup per day (based on rabbit’s size).
Too many pellets can cause obesity and digestive problems.
7. What NOT to Feed Rabbits
Some foods are dangerous and can make your rabbit very sick.
❌ Never Feed:
- Bread or crackers
- Pasta
- Chips or cookies
- Chocolate
- Meat or dairy
- Avocado
- Iceberg lettuce
- Sugary human foods
These foods can cause serious stomach issues or even death.
8. How Much Should You Feed a Rabbit?
Here’s a simple table for a daily diet:
| Food Type | Amount for Medium Rabbit (2–4 kg) |
|---|---|
| Hay | Unlimited (always available) |
| Leafy Greens | 2–4 cups daily |
| Vegetables | 1 tbsp per 2 lbs of body weight |
| Pellets | 1/8 to 1/4 cup daily |
| Fruit (treat) | 1–2 tsp, 2–3 times per week |
| Fresh Water | Always available |
9. Sample Daily Meal Plan
🐰 Morning:
- Fresh hay
- Small portion of pellets
- Fresh water
🥬 Afternoon:
- 2–3 leafy greens (like romaine, parsley, basil)
🍎 Evening:
- More hay
- Tiny fruit treat (apple slice)
✅ Always remove uneaten food after a few hours.
10. Tips for Feeding Rabbits
- Wash veggies and fruits before feeding
- Introduce new foods slowly
- Watch for signs of diarrhea or gas
- Always provide unlimited hay
- Use ceramic bowls (hard to tip over)
- Keep a regular feeding schedule
11. Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake #1: Too many pellets
Pellets are easy to overfeed. Too many cause obesity and digestive problems.
Mistake #2: Not enough hay
Hay should be 80% of your rabbit’s diet. It’s vital for digestion and teeth.
Mistake #3: Giving harmful vegetables
Not all greens are safe. Avoid iceberg lettuce and onions.
Mistake #4: Feeding too much fruit
Fruit is healthy but sugary. Limit it to avoid stomach upsets.
12. FAQs About Rabbit Diet
Q1: Can rabbits eat carrots every day?
A: No. Carrots are high in sugar. Offer small amounts once or twice a week.
Q2: Can rabbits drink milk?
A: No. Rabbits should never have dairy. It upsets their stomach.
Q3: What hay is best for baby rabbits?
A: Baby rabbits (under 6 months) can eat alfalfa hay, which is richer in calcium and protein.
Q4: Can I feed my rabbit only vegetables?
A: No. Veggies are important, but hay is the main food they need daily.
Q5: How often should I change their water?
A: Give fresh, clean water every day. Refill if it gets dirty.
13. Final Words
Feeding your rabbit the right way is one of the most important parts of pet care. A good diet helps your bunny stay active, playful, and healthy for years.
Remember the key rules:
- Hay is the main food
- Add a variety of fresh veggies
- Pellets and fruit should be limited
- Never give human snacks or harmful foods
With love, fresh food, and clean water, your bunny will hop with happiness every single day.