What Fruits Can Rabbits Eat? Rabbit-Friendly Fruits
Are you a rabbit owner who’s been scratching your head (or maybe your rabbit’s head) wondering what fruits they can chow down on?
Well then, let’s dive into the world of fruits that are safe for bunnies to munch on, how much they should be eating, and some general tips to keep that bun-bun of yours in tip-top shape.
What Fruits Can Rabbits Eat?
Buns are herbivores which means they’re plant-based eating machine, pretty much like a vegan with a cuter nose. In the wild, rabbits would chow on a smorgasbord of grasses, leafy greens and other plants.
And domestic rabbits should have diet that mimic their wild cousins which includes hay, a side of fresh veggies and a limited but delicious selection of fruits.
Fruits That Are Safe For Rabbits To Eat Include
You want to know what fruits your furry friend can munch on? You got it! Here’s a list of fruits that are safe for buns:
Apples (seeds are a no-no, don’t want to be growing an apple tree inside your bun)
Blueberries (small but mighty)
Cantaloupe (because who doesn’t love a good melon?)
Strawberries (they’ll never turn down those juicy red treats)
Raspberries (tangy and delicious)
Blackberries (a berry good option)
Peaches (so sweet and juicy)
Plums (because variety is the spice of life)
Pears (pears are great as long as you don’t plant a seed inside of your rabbit)
Above are just a few fruits that rabbits can eat and there are many different fruits that can eat (in limited) without any problems.
But it’s worth noting that these fruits should be given in small amounts as treats, don’t want to turn your bun into a fruitaholic.
How Much Fruit Should Rabbits Eat?
So, how much fruit can a rabbit handle? Well, it’s all about balance and moderation, like most things in life. A bun’s diet should primarily be hay, with some fresh veggies as side dishes and a sprinkle of fruits as treats.
A good rule of thumb is to give your rabbit about 1-2 tablespoons of fresh fruit per 2 pounds of body weight per day. So, if your rabbit weighs 4 pounds, you could give them about 2-4 tablespoons of fruit per day.
But, remember every rabbit is different and have different nutritional needs and preferences so consult with a veterinarian or a rabbit-savvy nutritionist if you’re unsure about how much fruit to give your rabbit
Tips For Feeding Your Rabbit A Healthy Diet
Want to make sure your bunny is living their best life? Here are some tips for feeding them a healthy diet:
Make Hay While The Sun Shines!
Always offer your rabbit plenty of hay. When caring for a rabbit, hay should be the primary food source. Hay helps to keep your rabbit’s teeth healthy and provides essential nutrients.
When It Comes To New Foods, Go Slow
Introduce new foods slowly. When introducing your rabbit to a new food, it’s smart to do so gradually. Start by giving them a small amount and gradually increase the amount over the course of a week or so. This will help to prevent digestive issues and gas.
No Sugar For Buns
Avoid giving your rabbit sugary treats. As mentioned above, fruits should be given in small amounts as treats because they are high in sugar. It’s good to avoid giving your rabbit sugary treats such as cookies or candy, as these can lead to serious health issues.
Keep Them Hydrated!
Keep your rabbit’s water dish full. Its your responsibility to make sure that your rabbit has access to clean, fresh water at all times. This will help to prevent dehydration and ensure that they are getting enough fluids, not just for hydration but also for their overall health.
Some top 10 safe fruits to feed for your rabbits:
Final Thoughts!
At the end I want you to know that buns can munch on a variety of fruits, but let’s not get too carried away now. Fruits should only be given as a treat, kind of like a dessert after a nice hay-based meal and some veggies on the side.
What fruits do you give to your rabbits on a regular basis? Let us know!
Read: Can Rabbits Eat Pineapple?
FAQs
How Much Fruit Should I Feed My Rabbit?
Fruits should make up no more than 10% of a rabbit’s diet (I wouldn’t give anything more than that)
Are There Any Fruits That Are Toxic To Rabbits?
Oh yes, there are some fruits that are toxic to rabbits like tomatoes, potato and eggplant leaves, and any fruit seeds or pits. These are like kryptonite to bunnies.
Is It Okay To Feed My Rabbit Dried Fruit?
It is not recommended to feed dried fruit to rabbits because they are high in sugar and it’s just like giving them a bag of candy. Fresh fruits are the best way to go in my opinion.
Can Young Rabbits Eat Fruits?
Young rabbits can eat fruits, but it is important to introduce them gradually and in small amounts as their digestive system is still developing.
Can A Rabbit Eat Too Much Fruit?
Yeah, of course they can eat but will surely result in diarrhea and other digestive issues. So for buns sake limit the amount of fruit you feed your rabbit, otherwise you’ll be cleaning up some messy bunny business.
Read: Can Rabbits Eat Oranges?
Jacob Mathew, the rabbit guy. He’s been working with those cute little buns for several years and he knows a lot of things about rabbits, if not everything.
Jacob loves cats and bunnies more than any other animals. Read my full bio