Rabbit Vegetable Information
Having owned pet rabbits for many, over 20 years at this point, I have learned and continue to learn about out furry little friends. There are many myths and misconceptions about what vegetables rabbits should eat. A proper diet is key having a healthy and happy rabbit with a long lifespan.
Rabbits love their vegetables but not all vegetables are good for your rabbit. Bugs bunny may love his carrots, but the reality is that rabbits should not be eating carrots regularly. Vegetables are divided into two different categories, leafy greens, and non-leafy greens.
Leafy greens should make up about 75% of the vegetation your rabbit eats and only 25% should be non-leafy vegetables.
How Much Vegetables to Feed a Rabbit
This really all depends on the weight of your rabbit. I suggest feeding your rabbit about 1 to 1 1/4 cups (packed tight) of leafy greens per 2 pounds of body weight per day. If you do not feed your rabbits pellets, then I suggest increasing the amount of vegetables.
Leafy Greens
Leafy greens, specifically dark leafy greens are the best type of vegetables for your rabbit. You need to use a bit of caution though when selecting your rabbit’s leafy greens since some contain Oxalic acid, a compound that is harmful to rabbits in large quantities.
These vegetables are high in Oxalic acid. These types of vegetables should only make up 1/3rd of your rabbit’s daily vegetable ration.
- Parsley
- Swiss Chard
- Spinach
- Mustard Greens
Non-Leafy Greens
Vegetables that are not leafy greens like carrots should only be fed in moderation. They are basically considered a treat foot. Root vegetables often contain more sugars in them than any other type of vegetable. You should not feed your rabbit any more than about 1 tablespoon of non-leafy vegetables per 2 pounds of body weight per day. Here are a few examples.
Variety of vegetables is Important
Try to mix up the variety of vegetation that your rabbit eats on a daily or weekly basis. This helps your rabbit from becoming bored with his or her food but also supplies many different micronutrients. Remember to keep in mind though that you need to keep an eye on the amount of vegetables you feed that contain Oxalic Acid.
List of Vegetables for Rabbits
Please click on each vegetable for specific information regarding whether rabbits can or should eat it.
Best Vegetables for Rabbits
- Kale
- Arugula
- Carrot tops
- Romaine lettuce
- Red Lettuce
- Green Lettuce
- Arugula
- Carrot tops
- Cucumber leaves
- Endive
- Dill leaves
- Escarole
- Frisee Lettuce
- Dandelion greens
- Mint
- Basil
- Watercress
- Wheatgrass
- Chicory
- Cilantro
- Radicchio
- Bok Choy
- Fennel
- Borage leaves
- Yu choy
Other Vegetables That Are Safe for Rabbits in Moderation
- Celery (Caution When Feeding)
- Corn Husks (Caution When Feeding)
- Pumpkin
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Cucumber
- Radishes
- Spinach
- Tomatoes
- Carrots
- Bell peppers
- Zucchini squash
- Brussel sprouts
- Cabbage
- Broccolini
- Summer squash
- Broccoli
Dangerous Vegetables
- Onions (Dangerous to Feed)
- Potatoes (Dangerous to Feed)
- Avocado (Dangerous to Feed)
- Corn on the cob (Not Good for Rabbits)
- Corn (Not Good for Rabbits)
- Iceberg Lettuce (Dangerous to Feed)
Fruit for Rabbits
Fruit is a safe and an excellent treat for rabbits to have on an occasional basis. Keep in mind most fruit is high in sugars and can cause gastrointestinal issues if consumed in large quantities. Fruit can be fed to your rabbit in many different forms and even frozen for cool summer treat.
About the Author
My name is Vanessa and I love my buns. My current house rabbit is Mr. Bunny, he is a black and white Dutch that just turned 9 years old.
I believe that rabbits are a magnificent animal that make great pets for SOME people. My mission is to share what I have learned about rabbits over the past 20 years to improve the relationship between our pets and us. Please contact me or comment if you have any questions or comments.