The Ultimate Guide to Feeding Your House Rabbit: A Happy, Healthy Hopper

Bringing a fluffy, adorable house rabbit into your life is a joyous occasion! However, ensuring your bunny thrives requires understanding their specific dietary needs. Unlike cats or dogs, rabbits have a highly specialized digestive system that relies heavily on fiber. A diet lacking the right balance can lead to serious health problems. This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about feeding your house rabbit, from the essential components of their diet to tips for avoiding common mistakes and creating a truly happy, healthy hopper.

## The Foundation of a Happy Rabbit: Hay

Hay is, without a doubt, the most crucial part of a rabbit’s diet. It should make up approximately 80-85% of their daily intake. Why is hay so important?

* **Dental Health:** Rabbits’ teeth are constantly growing, and the abrasive action of chewing hay helps to wear them down, preventing painful dental issues like malocclusion (misaligned teeth). Without sufficient hay, their teeth can overgrow, leading to difficulty eating, weight loss, and even infections.
* **Digestive Health:** Hay is packed with indigestible fiber, which is vital for keeping the rabbit’s digestive system moving properly. This fiber helps prevent issues like GI stasis, a life-threatening condition where the digestive system slows down or stops entirely. It also promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria in the gut.
* **Mental Stimulation:** Grazing on hay is a natural behavior for rabbits. It keeps them occupied and prevents boredom, which can lead to destructive behaviors like chewing furniture.

**Types of Hay:**

There are two main categories of hay: grass hays and legume hays.

* **Grass Hays:** These are the most suitable for adult rabbits and include Timothy, Orchard, Brome, and Oat hay. They are high in fiber and relatively low in calcium and protein.
* **Timothy Hay:** The gold standard! It’s readily available, palatable, and provides the perfect balance of fiber and nutrients for adult rabbits. It is a great all-around choice.
* **Orchard Hay:** A slightly sweeter option than Timothy, Orchard hay can be a good alternative for picky eaters or rabbits who need a little encouragement to eat more hay. It’s also a good option if Timothy hay is unavailable.
* **Brome Hay:** Less common than Timothy or Orchard, but still a good choice if you can find it. It is similar in nutritional profile to Timothy hay.
* **Oat Hay:** A coarser hay that’s high in fiber and can be a good option for variety. It also contains oat seeds, which are a treat for many rabbits.
* **Legume Hays:** These include Alfalfa and Clover hay. They are higher in calcium and protein than grass hays and are more appropriate for young, growing rabbits (under 6 months old) or pregnant/nursing does. However, too much legume hay for adult rabbits can lead to health problems like bladder sludge and kidney stones.

**Choosing the Right Hay:**

When selecting hay, look for these qualities:

* **Freshness:** The hay should be fragrant and green in color, not brown, yellow, or moldy. It should smell sweet, not musty.
* **Texture:** The hay should be dry and slightly coarse, not damp or dusty.
* **Purity:** Choose hay that is free from dust, mold, and other contaminants. Dust can irritate a rabbit’s respiratory system.
* **Source:** Buy hay from a reputable supplier that specializes in pet supplies or farm products. Avoid buying hay from sources that may use pesticides or herbicides.

**How Much Hay to Feed:**

A rabbit should have access to unlimited hay at all times. Their hay rack or pile should be consistently full. This ensures they are constantly grazing and getting the necessary fiber.

**Hay Presentation:**

* **Hay Rack/Feeder:** A hay rack keeps the hay clean and off the floor, preventing contamination and waste. There are many types of hay racks available, so choose one that is safe and easy for your rabbit to use. Look for ones without large holes where their heads or feet could get stuck.
* **Hay Pile:** Some rabbits prefer to eat hay directly from a pile on the floor. If you choose this method, make sure to replace the hay frequently to keep it clean and fresh.
* **Hay in Litter Box:** Many rabbit owners find that putting hay in the litter box encourages rabbits to use it, as they often graze while eliminating. Just be sure the hay stays fresh and dry and replace it often.

## The Supporting Cast: Fresh Vegetables

While hay is the main component of a rabbit’s diet, fresh vegetables play a vital role in providing essential vitamins and minerals. They should make up approximately 10-15% of their daily intake.

**Safe Vegetables for Rabbits:**

* **Leafy Greens:** These should be the staple of your rabbit’s vegetable intake. Offer a variety each day to ensure they are getting a wide range of nutrients. Good options include:
* Romaine lettuce (not iceberg, which has little nutritional value and can cause digestive upset)
* Green leaf lettuce
* Red leaf lettuce
* Boston lettuce
* Endive
* Escarole
* Arugula
* Cilantro
* Parsley (in moderation, as it’s high in calcium)
* Basil
* Mint (in moderation)
* Wheatgrass (a healthy treat)
* Dandelion greens (pesticide-free)
* **Other Vegetables:** These can be offered in smaller quantities, as they tend to be higher in sugar or carbohydrates.
* Bell peppers (all colors)
* Broccoli (leaves and florets, in moderation)
* Brussels sprouts (in moderation)
* Carrots (sparingly, due to high sugar content; carrot tops are a better choice)
* Celery (including leaves, in moderation)
* Cucumbers (in moderation)
* Pea pods (flat pods only, in moderation)
* Radish tops (in moderation)
* Sprouts (alfalfa, radish, etc., in moderation)
* Squash (winter squashes like butternut and acorn, in moderation)

**Vegetables to Avoid:**

* Iceberg lettuce: As mentioned earlier, it has very little nutritional value and can cause digestive upset.
* Avocado: Toxic to rabbits.
* Potatoes: High in starch and can cause digestive problems.
* Onions and garlic: Toxic to rabbits.
* Rhubarb: Toxic to rabbits.
* Mushrooms: Some are toxic, so it’s best to avoid them altogether.
* Beans and peas: Can cause gas and bloating.
* Corn: Difficult to digest.
* Nuts and seeds: High in fat and difficult to digest.
* Chocolate: Toxic to rabbits.
* Anything processed or containing added sugar, salt, or preservatives.

**How Much Vegetables to Feed:**

The amount of vegetables you feed will depend on the size and age of your rabbit. A general guideline is:

* **Small rabbits (2-5 lbs):** 1-2 cups of leafy greens per day, plus a small amount of other vegetables.
* **Medium rabbits (5-8 lbs):** 2-3 cups of leafy greens per day, plus a small amount of other vegetables.
* **Large rabbits (8+ lbs):** 3-4 cups of leafy greens per day, plus a small amount of other vegetables.

**Introducing New Vegetables:**

When introducing new vegetables to your rabbit’s diet, do so slowly and gradually. Offer a small amount of one new vegetable at a time and monitor their droppings for any changes. If their droppings become soft or runny, stop feeding that vegetable and try again later. It’s always best to introduce new foods one at a time so that if there is an adverse reaction, you know which food caused the problem. Start with a very small amount, like a tablespoon or two, and gradually increase the amount over several days if your rabbit tolerates it well.

**Washing Vegetables:**

Always wash vegetables thoroughly before feeding them to your rabbit to remove any dirt, pesticides, or herbicides. Even organic vegetables should be washed.

**Vegetable Presentation:**

* **Chopped:** Chop vegetables into small, manageable pieces to prevent choking.
* **Mixed:** Offer a variety of vegetables in each serving to provide a balanced diet.
* **Fresh:** Serve vegetables fresh and crisp. Discard any wilted or spoiled vegetables.

## The Occasional Treat: Healthy Options

Treats should be offered sparingly, as they are often high in sugar and calories and can contribute to weight gain and dental problems. Treats should only make up about 5% or less of the daily diet.

**Healthy Treat Options:**

* **Fresh Fruit:** Offer small amounts of fruit as a treat, no more than a tablespoon or two per day. Good options include:
* Apples (without seeds, as they contain cyanide)
* Bananas (small slice)
* Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
* Melon (cantaloupe, watermelon)
* Papaya
* Pineapple (in moderation, as it’s acidic)
* **Herbs:** Fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, and basil can be offered as treats.
* **Dried Herbs:** Dried herbs are also a great option, just make sure they are plain and don’t contain any added salt or sugar.
* **Commercial Rabbit Treats:** If you choose to offer commercial rabbit treats, select ones that are low in sugar and high in fiber. Avoid treats that contain nuts, seeds, or dried fruit, as these are often high in fat and sugar.

**Treats to Avoid:**

* Yogurt drops: These are high in sugar and offer no nutritional value.
* Commercial treats with nuts, seeds, or dried fruit: As mentioned above, these are high in fat and sugar.
* Anything processed or containing added sugar, salt, or preservatives.

**Treat Presentation:**

* **Hand-feeding:** Offering treats by hand can help to strengthen the bond between you and your rabbit.
* **Puzzle toys:** Place treats inside puzzle toys to provide mental stimulation and encourage foraging behavior.
* **Sparingly:** Remember to offer treats sparingly to avoid weight gain and dental problems.

## The Elixir of Life: Fresh Water

Fresh, clean water is essential for a rabbit’s health. They should have access to unlimited water at all times.

**Water Sources:**

* **Water Bowl:** A ceramic or stainless steel water bowl is a good option. Make sure the bowl is heavy enough that your rabbit can’t easily tip it over. Clean the bowl daily to prevent bacterial growth.
* **Water Bottle:** A water bottle is another option, but it’s important to check it regularly to make sure the nozzle is working properly and that the rabbit is able to access the water. Clean the bottle frequently to prevent algae buildup.

**Water Quality:**

* **Freshness:** Change the water at least once a day, or more often if it becomes dirty.
* **Cleanliness:** Clean water bowls and bottles regularly with soap and water.
* **Filtration:** Consider using filtered water to remove any contaminants.

**Monitoring Water Intake:**

* **Dehydration:** Watch for signs of dehydration, such as sunken eyes, lethargy, and decreased appetite. If you suspect your rabbit is dehydrated, consult with a veterinarian immediately.
* **Excessive Drinking:** Excessive drinking can be a sign of underlying health problems, such as kidney disease or diabetes. If your rabbit is drinking more water than usual, consult with a veterinarian.

## A Word on Pellets: Use Sparingly (Or Not at All)

Pellets are a controversial topic in the rabbit world. While they can provide some nutrients, they are often high in calories and low in fiber, which can lead to weight gain and digestive problems. Many rabbit owners choose to eliminate pellets entirely, relying instead on hay, fresh vegetables, and limited healthy treats. If you do choose to feed pellets, do so sparingly.

**Choosing the Right Pellets:**

* **High Fiber:** Choose pellets that are high in fiber (at least 18%) and low in protein (14-16%) and fat (2-3%).
* **Timothy-Based:** Select pellets that are made from Timothy hay, rather than alfalfa hay. Alfalfa-based pellets are too high in calcium for adult rabbits.
* **Plain:** Avoid pellets that contain added sugar, corn, nuts, or seeds.
* **Uniform:** Look for pellets that are uniform in size and shape. This will prevent your rabbit from selectively eating only the tastiest parts of the pellets, which can lead to an unbalanced diet.

**How Much Pellets to Feed:**

If you choose to feed pellets, offer a limited amount each day. A general guideline is:

* **Small rabbits (2-5 lbs):** 1/4 cup of pellets per day.
* **Medium rabbits (5-8 lbs):** 1/2 cup of pellets per day.
* **Large rabbits (8+ lbs):** 3/4 cup of pellets per day.

**Weaning Off Pellets:**

If you want to eliminate pellets from your rabbit’s diet, do so gradually. Slowly decrease the amount of pellets you offer each day while increasing the amount of hay and vegetables. This will allow your rabbit’s digestive system to adjust to the new diet.

## Dietary Changes: A Gradual Transition

Whenever you make changes to your rabbit’s diet, do so slowly and gradually. Sudden changes can disrupt their digestive system and lead to GI stasis. Introduce new foods one at a time and monitor their droppings for any changes. If you notice any signs of digestive upset, stop feeding the new food and consult with a veterinarian.

## Special Dietary Needs: Considering Life Stages and Health Conditions

* **Young Rabbits (under 6 months):** Young rabbits need a diet that is higher in protein and calcium to support their growth. They can be fed alfalfa hay and alfalfa-based pellets. As they get older, gradually transition them to Timothy hay and Timothy-based pellets.
* **Pregnant and Nursing Does:** Pregnant and nursing does also need a diet that is higher in protein and calcium. They can be fed alfalfa hay and alfalfa-based pellets during this time. Make sure they always have plenty of fresh water available.
* **Senior Rabbits:** Senior rabbits may have dental problems or other health issues that affect their appetite. You may need to offer them softer hay or chop their vegetables into smaller pieces. You may also need to supplement their diet with vitamins or minerals, as recommended by your veterinarian.
* **Rabbits with Dental Problems:** Rabbits with dental problems may have difficulty chewing hay. You can offer them softer hay, such as Timothy hay that has been soaked in water. You can also chop their vegetables into smaller pieces or offer them mashed vegetables.
* **Rabbits with GI Stasis:** Rabbits with GI stasis need immediate veterinary care. They may also need to be syringe-fed a mixture of critical care food and water. Your veterinarian can advise you on the best diet for your rabbit during this time.
* **Rabbits with Bladder Sludge or Kidney Stones:** These rabbits need a diet that is low in calcium. Avoid alfalfa hay and alfalfa-based pellets. Offer plenty of fresh water to help flush out their system.

## Common Feeding Mistakes to Avoid:

* **Feeding too many pellets:** Pellets are often high in calories and low in fiber, which can lead to weight gain and digestive problems.
* **Feeding the wrong type of hay:** Alfalfa hay is too high in calcium for adult rabbits.
* **Feeding too many sugary treats:** Sugary treats can contribute to weight gain and dental problems.
* **Not providing enough fresh water:** Fresh water is essential for a rabbit’s health.
* **Making sudden dietary changes:** Sudden dietary changes can disrupt a rabbit’s digestive system.
* **Feeding toxic foods:** Some foods, such as avocado, chocolate, and onions, are toxic to rabbits.
* **Ignoring signs of digestive upset:** If your rabbit’s droppings become soft or runny, or if they stop eating, consult with a veterinarian immediately.

## Setting up a Rabbit Feeding Schedule:

While rabbits need constant access to hay, establishing a schedule for vegetables and pellets (if you feed them) can be helpful.

* **Morning:** Offer a portion of fresh vegetables.
* **Evening:** Offer the other portion of fresh vegetables and pellets (if feeding).
* **Throughout the day:** Ensure a constant supply of fresh hay is available.
* **Water:** Check water bowls or bottles at least twice a day and refill as needed.

## Signs of a Healthy, Well-Fed Rabbit:

* **Healthy Weight:** Your rabbit should be neither underweight nor overweight. You should be able to feel their ribs easily, but not see them. A healthy rabbit has a tucked abdomen, not a sagging one.
* **Shiny Coat:** A healthy coat is shiny and smooth. Dull or matted fur can be a sign of underlying health problems.
* **Normal Droppings:** Rabbit droppings should be round, firm, and dry. Soft or runny droppings are a sign of digestive upset.
* **Good Appetite:** A healthy rabbit should have a good appetite and eagerly eat their hay, vegetables, and pellets (if feeding).
* **Active and Alert:** A healthy rabbit should be active and alert. Lethargy or decreased activity can be a sign of illness.

## Consulting with a Veterinarian:

It’s always a good idea to consult with a veterinarian who specializes in rabbits to discuss your rabbit’s dietary needs. They can help you create a personalized feeding plan that is tailored to your rabbit’s individual health and lifestyle.

Feeding your house rabbit a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their health and well-being. By following the guidelines in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure that your bunny is happy, healthy, and thriving for many years to come. Remember that hay is the foundation of their diet, fresh vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, and treats should be offered sparingly. Always provide fresh, clean water and consult with a veterinarian if you have any concerns about your rabbit’s diet or health. Enjoy the journey of caring for your furry friend and watching them flourish on a diet designed for their optimal health!