Pet Rabbit Diet

Many rabbit owners are not aware that they may be feeding their pet an unhealthy diet. This is because most commercial rabbit pellets or mixes do not contain enough fibre and are too high in sugar and protein to form the basis for an adult rabbit's diet. In the wild, rabbits eat mostly grass so this is what their bodies are designed to process.

Good quality hay or grass should be available 24 hours a day and make up the bulk of your rabbit's food. The hay in most pet shops is fine for bedding but usually of too low a quality for eating. Seek out grass hays such as Timothy, Oat, Pasture, or Ryegrass hay.

Fresh green vegetables provide roughage and vitamins and around 3 different types should be offered each day, making up around 20% of the diet altogether. A small amount of 'treat' food such as carrot or apple can also be offered each day.

If you think you need to change our rabbit's diet, don't make any sudden changes. Do it slowly over several weeks. You may find your rabbit is too accustomed to eating rabbit pellets and refuses to accept hay or grass. In this case, Oxbow rabbit pellets are a suitable substitute.

Never give your rabbits nuts, cereals, grains, beans, peas, bread, biscuits, sweets or chocolates. These types of food can upset their digestive system and make them ill.

Don't be concerned when you see your pets eating their own droppings. This is a natural habit and keeps their digestive system healthy.

Rabbit teeth grow continously and need to be continuously worn down to avoid over growing. Provide wooden blocks or branches for them to gnaw on - sticks from apple trees or roses (minus the thorns) are suitable.

Of course, always ensure a constant supply of fresh, clean water is available. Use a drip-type bottle/dispenser to prevent the water from becoming soiled quickly.