What Do Rabbits Eat

Introduction

Understanding what rabbits eat is essential for keeping your bunny healthy. Rabbits have a unique digestive system that requires a very specific diet — one that's quite different from what many new owners expect. Here's a complete breakdown of what rabbits eat and what to avoid.

Hay: The Most Important Food

Hay is the cornerstone of a rabbit's diet and should be available at all times. It provides the long-strand fiber that keeps the digestive system moving and helps wear down teeth. Adult rabbits should eat primarily timothy hay or orchard grass hay. Oxbow Orchard Grass Hay is a popular choice — it's soft, sweet-smelling, and loved by most rabbits. You can also offer Kaytee Timothy Hay Blend Cubes as a fun, enriching alternative.

Keep hay fresh and accessible using a hay feeder rack to prevent it from getting soiled on the cage floor.

Pellets

High-quality pellets provide concentrated nutrition. Choose a timothy-based pellet with high fiber content and no added sugars, seeds, or artificial colors. Oxbow Garden Select Adult Rabbit Food is an excellent option — made with hand-selected botanicals and no soy or wheat. Feed about ¼ cup per 5 lbs of body weight per day.

Fresh Leafy Greens

Fresh vegetables should be offered daily. The best options include:

• Romaine lettuce — hydrating and nutritious
• Cilantro — most rabbits love it
• Parsley — rich in vitamins
• Kale — offer in small amounts due to high calcium
• Bok choy — gentle on the digestive system
• Basil and mint — great for variety

Fruits and Treats

Fruits are high in sugar and should only be given as occasional treats — about 1–2 tablespoons per day maximum. Safe fruits include apple (no seeds), banana, strawberry, blueberry, and papaya. VESPRO Natural Chew Sticks mixed with dried flowers make a great low-sugar treat option.

Water

Fresh, clean water must always be available. Use a no-drip water bottle or a heavy ceramic bowl. Change water daily.

What Rabbits Should NOT Eat

Avoid these foods entirely:

• Chocolate
• Onions and garlic
• Avocado
• Rhubarb
• Iceberg lettuce
• Processed human foods
• Nuts and seeds
• Corn

Conclusion

A rabbit's diet is simple when you get the basics right: unlimited hay, measured pellets, daily fresh greens, and clean water. Keep treats minimal and always introduce new foods one at a time to monitor for digestive reactions.