The Ideal Rabbit Diet: A Guide to Healthy, Happy Bunnies

Rabbits are not just adorable companions; they are complex creatures with specific dietary needs. Providing the right nutrition is essential for their health, well-being, and longevity. Whether you are new to being a rabbit pet parent or you are a seasoned one, understanding the ideal diet for your rabbits can help you ensure your furry friends thrive. Here’s everything you need to know to keep your rabbits happy, healthy, and hopping!

  1. Hay: The Foundation of Every Rabbit’s Diet

Hay is the single most important part of a rabbit’s diet. It provides the high-fibre content necessary for healthy digestion and helps to wear down their constantly growing teeth.

  • Why hay? Rabbits need unlimited access to eat as much fresh, clean, good quality hay as they can eat every day. It helps to keep their constantly growing teeth in good shape, promotes gut health, prevents obesity, and mimics the natural grazing behaviour they would have in the wild.
  • How much? Allow for hay to always be freely available as the main part of your rabbit’s diet. A portion at least the volume of the size of your rabbit’s whole body each day is a good guide. But be generous – if your rabbit wants to eat more hay, give them more hay! Make sure you always keep their hay racks topped up. They should always have hay available to nibble on and it should never run out.
  • No enough? If you are concerned that your rabbit is not eating enough hay, it is possible it could be a sign of an underlying health issue, so you may wish to consult your vet. However, it could also be a sign that you are feeding them too much rabbit food – so make sure you are following our portion size guidelines. For rabbits that just aren’t very keen on eating much hay, you can try feeding Selective Naturals Fibafirst, which has lots of long fibre and a nutritional profile similar to that of hay – a great way to encourage them to get more long fibre in their diet.
  • Top tip: Science Selective Timothy Hay is a nutritious option, rich in fibre and naturally sweet, making it both healthy and delicious for your rabbit.
Rabbit Wild Forage
  1. Leafy Greens: A Daily Dose of Variety

Adding fresh leafy greens to your rabbit’s diet provides essential nutrients and keeps mealtime exciting.

  • What to offer? Safe greens you can feed every day include parsley, coriander, basil, dandelion leaves, watercress, pak choi and romaine and other safe lettuce leaves. Avoid iceberg lettuce as it has little nutritional value and cause digestive upset.
  • What else? You can also add other green vegetables into their diets from time to time to add variety, such as broccoli, spinach and kale. Take care not to overfeed these veggies to pets that are susceptible to urinary tract issues, as they are high in oxalates.
  • How much? Provide a handful of fresh leafy greens daily. Rotate the greens to add variety and ensure a balance of nutrients.
  • Fun fact: Leafy greens are not only tasty but also keep rabbits hydrated.
  1. Nuggets: The Perfect Nutritional Balance

High-quality rabbit nuggets are an essential inclusion in their diet, providing the vitamins, minerals, and nutrients that hay alone, as a variable natural crop, may not be able to give.

  • How much? Feed a measured portion daily according to your rabbit’s weight and the feeding guide provided on the packaging.
Rabbit Timothy Hay FFL
  1. Treats: For Happy Tails and Special Moments

Treats can be a great way to bond with your bunny, but they should only be given occasionally.

  • Healthy treats: Look for natural, low-sugar options that are high in fibre, like Supreme’s Selective Naturals treats.
  • Avoid: Too much fruit or sugary snacks, as these can lead to obesity and digestive problems.
  • How often? 1-2 healthy treats can be fed daily, but you should monitor your rabbit’s weight and body condition score regularly.
  1. Water: The Unsung Hero

Clean, fresh water is vital to keep your rabbits hydrated and healthy. Always provide unlimited access to water in a clean bowl or bottle. Check your rabbits’ water supply daily and ensure it is replenished regularly.

  • Top tip: Have you tried your rabbits with a water fountain? Rabbits often prefer running water as it stays fresher and cooler for longer, encouraging them to drink more and stay hydrated.

 

A Quick Recap: The Ideal Rabbit Diet

  • Hay: Free access to as much high-quality hay as they can eat.
  • Leafy Greens: 1 handful daily.
  • Nuggets: A measured portion tailored to your rabbit’s life stage and/or lifestyle.
  • Treats: Occasional and healthy.
  • Water: Fresh and unlimited.

Why Choose Science Selective?

At Supreme Petfoods, we understand that every rabbit deserves the best. Science Selective is formulated by experts to meet the species-specific needs of rabbits at every life stage. It’s high in fibre, contains no added sugars, natural prebiotics for healthy digestion, Omega 3 & 6 for healthy skin and coat, and is fortified with all the essential vitamins and minerals for a healthy life.

  • No added sugars
  • Rich in natural ingredients
  • Omega 3 & 6 for healthy skin and coat
  • Natural pre-biotics for digestive wellbeing
  • Essential vitamins and minerals

Whether your rabbit is young, adult, or senior, indoors or out, Selective provides the tailored nutrition they need for a long, healthy, and happy life.

For More Tips and Advice

Explore more about rabbit care and nutrition on our website or follow us on our social media channels for the latest updates, expert tips, and bunny inspiration!

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