A healthy diet for your pet rabbit

Animal welfare charities and vets recommend the following to ensure that your rabbit eats healthily:

  • A fresh supply of good quality hay which should be separate from its bedding. Hay should make up the bulk of a rabbit’s diet.
  • One to two tablespoons (depending on the size of your rabbit) of commercial feed every day. Pellets are the best type of food as they contain all of a rabbit’s nutritional needs. Avoid the muesli type of rabbit food which is often available in pet shops and supermarkets as it can be a cause of teeth problems and tummy upsets.
  • Feed your rabbit a handful of suitable greens every day. The best type are dark leafy green vegetables. It is best to only give minimal amounts of carrots and apples (as an occasional treat) as they are not a natural part of a rabbit’s diet and contain a high sugar content. Lettuce can also cause stomach upsets. Avoid giving iceberg lettuce as it has a high water content and lacks nutritional value and it also contains laudanum which can be harmful when digested in large quantities. Romaine lettuce is more beneficial nutritionally but serve in small amounts to start with so your rabbit gets accustomed to eating this.
  • Finally, make sure your rabbit has a good supply of clean, fresh water daily.