The Ultimate Healthy Rabbit Diet Guide: Hay, Veggies & Pellets

Are you wondering what exactly your beloved bunny should be eating to stay healthy and happy? A proper rabbit diet isn't just about throwing some lettuce in a bowl – it's a carefully balanced combination of hay, vegetables, pellets, and fresh water that keeps your furry friend thriving for years to come.

The simple answer: Adult rabbits need unlimited timothy hay, 1/4 cup of pellets per 5 pounds of body weight, 2-4 cups of fresh leafy vegetables daily, and constant access to fresh water. But there's so much more to creating the perfect rabbit diet than these basics.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore everything you need to know about feeding your rabbit properly, from the foundation of hay to the excitement of healthy treats. Whether you're a new rabbit parent or looking to improve your current feeding routine, this guide will help you make informed decisions about your bunny's nutrition.

What Should Be the Foundation of Every Rabbit's Diet?

Timothy hay should make up 80-85% of your adult rabbit's diet. This isn't just a recommendation – it's absolutely essential for your rabbit's digestive health, dental care, and overall wellbeing.

Rabbits are grazing animals by nature, spending most of their time in the wild nibbling on grasses and plants. Their digestive system, particularly their cecum (a large pouch in their intestines), is specifically designed to break down high-fiber plant material. Without adequate fiber from hay, rabbits can develop serious digestive issues including GI stasis, a potentially fatal condition where the digestive system slows down or stops completely.

Why Timothy Hay Specifically?

Timothy hay offers the perfect nutritional profile for adult rabbits:

• High fiber content (32-34%) promotes healthy digestion
• Lower protein (7-9%) than alfalfa, preventing kidney issues in adults
• Lower calcium reduces risk of urinary sludge and bladder stones
• Coarse texture helps wear down continuously growing teeth

Your rabbit should have access to fresh timothy hay 24/7. A good rule of thumb is to provide a pile of hay roughly the size of your rabbit's body each day. Don't worry if it seems like a lot – rabbits are designed to eat constantly throughout the day.

For more detailed information about choosing the right hay, check out our guide on [Best Hay for Rabbits: Timothy, Orchard, Oat & More Explained].

Signs Your Rabbit Isn't Getting Enough Hay

Watch for these warning signs that indicate your rabbit needs more hay in their diet:

• Small, hard, or misshapen cecotropes (soft, dark droppings they normally re-ingest)
• Decreased appetite for hay while still eating pellets and treats
• Softer than normal regular droppings
• Overgrown teeth or dental issues
• Weight gain or obesity

How Many Pellets Should I Feed My Rabbit Daily?

The general rule for adult rabbits is 1/4 cup of high-quality timothy-based pellets per 5 pounds of body weight per day. This means a 5-pound rabbit gets 1/4 cup, while a 10-pound rabbit receives 1/2 cup daily.

However, pellets should never be the main component of your rabbit's diet. Think of them as a nutritional supplement that ensures your bunny gets essential vitamins and minerals that might be missing from hay and vegetables alone.

Choosing the Right Pellets

Not all rabbit pellets are created equal. Here's what to look for:

Quality Indicators:

• Timothy-based (not alfalfa) for adult rabbits
• 18-23% crude fiber minimum
• 12-14% protein for adults (16-18% for growing rabbits under 6 months)
• No added seeds, nuts, or colored pieces (these can cause digestive upset)
• Fresh smell and firm texture (not dusty or musty)

Avoid pellets with:

• Artificial colors and preservatives
• Added sugars or molasses
• Mixed seeds or dried fruit
• Excessive amounts of calcium (over 1%)

Popular high-quality brands include Oxbow Essentials, Supreme Petfoods Science Selective, and Mazuri Timothy-based formulas. Always transition gradually when switching pellet brands by mixing increasing amounts of the new pellets with decreasing amounts of the old over 7-10 days.

For detailed feeding amounts and avoiding overfeeding, visit our article on [How Many Pellets to Feed Your Rabbit: Avoiding Overfeeding].

What Vegetables Can Rabbits Eat Safely?

Adult rabbits should receive 2-4 cups of fresh vegetables daily, with leafy greens making up the majority. The key is variety and gradual introduction of new foods.

Daily Leafy Greens (2-3 cups per 6 pounds of body weight)

These should form the bulk of your rabbit's vegetable intake:

Excellent Daily Choices:

• Romaine lettuce - high in vitamins A and K
• Green leaf lettuce - good source of folate and vitamin C
• Red leaf lettuce - contains antioxidants and vitamin A
• Arugula - rich in calcium and vitamin K
• Bok choy - excellent source of vitamin C and calcium
• Cilantro - high in vitamin A and antioxidants
• Parsley - rich in vitamin C and iron (feed in moderation due to calcium content)
• Basil - contains antioxidants and essential oils

Rotate These Greens (2-3 times per week):

• Kale - very high in calcium, so limit portions
• Spinach - contains oxalates, feed sparingly
• Swiss chard - high in oxalates, occasional treat only
• Dandelion greens - excellent nutrition but strong flavor
• Endive - good source of vitamin K and folate

Other Vegetables (1/2 to 1 cup per 6 pounds of body weight)

Safe Daily Vegetables:

• Bell peppers (red, yellow, orange) - remove seeds
• Cucumber - including skin and seeds
• Zucchini - including skin
• Broccoli - small amounts of florets and leaves
• Celery - cut into small pieces to prevent choking

2-3 Times Per Week:

• Carrots - contrary to popular belief, these are high in sugar and should be treats only
• Brussels sprouts - can cause gas, so introduce slowly
• Cabbage - small amounts only, can cause digestive upset
• Cauliflower - leaves and florets in moderation

For a comprehensive list of safe and unsafe vegetables, see our detailed guide: [Safe Vegetables for Rabbits: A Comprehensive List & What to Avoid].

Introducing New Vegetables

Never introduce more than one new vegetable at a time, and always start with tiny amounts. Here's the proper process:

1. Day 1-2: Offer a small piece (about the size of your thumbnail)
2. Day 3-4: If no digestive upset, increase to a slightly larger piece
3. Day 5-7: Gradually increase to normal serving size if no issues occur
4. Monitor carefully for soft stools, decreased appetite, or behavior changes

What Fruits and Treats Are Safe for Rabbits?

Fruits should only make up 1-2 tablespoons per 6 pounds of body weight daily, and should be considered treats, not dietary staples. While rabbits love the sweet taste of fruits, too much sugar can lead to digestive problems, weight gain, and dental issues.

Best Fruit Treats

Excellent Choices (high in nutrients, lower in sugar):

• Berries - blueberries, raspberries, blackberries (2-3 berries per serving)
• Apple slices - remove seeds and core (1-2 thin slices)
• Pear - remove seeds (1-2 small pieces)
• Papaya - excellent for preventing hairballs (1-2 small pieces)
• Banana - very high in sugar, limit to 1/2 inch slice 2-3 times per week

Occasional Treats (higher in sugar):

• Strawberries - remove green tops (1 small berry)
• Grapes - red or green, seedless only (2-3 grapes)
• Melon - cantaloupe or honeydew (1-2 small cubes)
• Peach - remove pit (1-2 small pieces)

Commercial Rabbit Treats

While homemade treats are generally healthier, some commercial options are acceptable in very small quantities:

Better Options:

• Timothy hay-based treats
• Compressed vegetable treats without added sugars
• Plain, unsalted sunflower seeds (1-2 seeds per week)

Avoid Completely:

• Yogurt drops (rabbits are lactose intolerant)
• Seed and nut mixes
• Honey-coated treats
• Chocolate or candy (toxic to rabbits)

For a complete list of dangerous foods, read our article: [Toxic Foods for Rabbits: A List of Dangerous No-Nos].

How Much Water Does My Rabbit Need?

Rabbits need constant access to fresh, clean water. An average adult rabbit drinks 50-150ml of water per kilogram of body weight daily, though this can vary based on temperature, activity level, and diet.

Water Delivery Methods

Water Bottles vs. Bowls: Both methods have advantages. Many rabbits prefer drinking from bowls as it's more natural, but bottles prevent spillage and contamination. Some rabbit owners provide both options.

Water Bowl Advantages:

• More natural drinking position
• Easier to clean thoroughly
• Rabbit can drink more quickly when needed
• No risk of bottle malfunction

Water Bottle Advantages:

• Stays cleaner longer
• Prevents spillage in the cage
• Reduces risk of contamination from food or bedding

Regardless of your choice, water should be changed daily and the container thoroughly cleaned several times per week. For more detailed information, check out: [Providing Fresh Water for Your Rabbit: Bottles vs. Bowls].

What Foods Are Dangerous for Rabbits?

Many common household foods are toxic to rabbits and can cause serious illness or death. It's crucial to know what to avoid to keep your bunny safe.

Immediately Dangerous Foods

Never feed these to your rabbit:

• Avocado - contains persin, which is toxic to rabbits
• Chocolate - contains theobromine, which rabbits cannot process
• Onions and garlic - can cause anemia and digestive damage
• Iceberg lettuce - too high in water, too low in nutrients, can cause diarrhea
• Rhubarb - contains oxalic acid, which is poisonous
• Mushrooms - many varieties are toxic to rabbits
• Raw beans - contain lectins that are harmful
• Nuts and seeds (except occasional sunflower seeds) - too high in fat
• Dairy products - rabbits are lactose intolerant
• Meat - rabbits are herbivores and cannot digest animal protein

Foods That Require Extreme Caution

These foods aren't immediately toxic but can cause problems:

• Fruit pits and seeds - contain cyanide compounds
• Apple seeds - small amounts may be okay, but avoid to be safe
• High-calcium vegetables in large quantities - can cause urinary sludge
• High-oxalate foods like spinach - can interfere with calcium absorption
• Sugary foods - can disrupt gut bacteria and cause GI stasis

How Do I Create a Feeding Schedule for My Rabbit?

Establishing a consistent feeding routine helps maintain your rabbit's digestive health and makes it easier to monitor their eating habits. Here's a recommended daily schedule:

Sample Daily Feeding Schedule

Morning (7-8 AM):

• Refresh hay supply
• Provide 1/2 of daily pellet ration
• Offer 1-2 cups of leafy greens
• Check and refill water

Afternoon (12-1 PM):

• Add fresh hay if needed
• Offer other vegetables (bell peppers, cucumber, etc.)
• Small fruit treat (if giving fruit that day)

Evening (6-7 PM):

• Provide remaining pellet ration
• Offer remaining leafy greens
• Final hay check
• Fresh water

Before Bed (9-10 PM):

• Final hay top-up
• Remove any uneaten fresh foods that might spoil overnight

Monitoring Your Rabbit's Eating Habits

Daily Observations:

• Is your rabbit finishing most of their hay?
• Are they eating their pellets enthusiastically?
• Do they seem excited about vegetables?
• Are they producing normal droppings?

Weekly Checks:

• Weigh your rabbit to monitor for changes
• Assess body condition (should be able to feel ribs but not see them)
• Check teeth for overgrowth or alignment issues
• Monitor water consumption

What Are the Signs of Digestive Problems in Rabbits?

GI stasis is the most common and dangerous digestive problem in rabbits. Recognizing the early signs can save your rabbit's life.

Warning Signs of GI Stasis

Immediate veterinary attention needed if you notice:

• Decreased or stopped eating - especially hay
• Smaller, harder, or no droppings for more than 12 hours
• Hunched posture or reluctance to move
• Grinding teeth (sign of pain)
• Bloated or hard abdomen
• Lethargy or hiding behavior

Prevention Strategies

Diet-Related Prevention:

• Ensure unlimited access to high-quality hay
• Limit pellets to appropriate amounts
• Introduce new foods gradually
• Avoid high-sugar foods and treats
• Maintain consistent feeding schedule

Environment and Lifestyle:

• Provide adequate exercise space
• Minimize stress and sudden changes
• Maintain appropriate temperature (60-70°F ideal)
• Regular grooming to prevent hairball formation

For comprehensive information about this serious condition, read: [Understanding GI Stasis in Rabbits: Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment].

How Does Diet Affect Rabbit Dental Health?

A rabbit's teeth grow continuously throughout their lifetime, making proper diet crucial for dental health. Without adequate fiber to wear down teeth naturally, rabbits can develop serious dental problems.

The Hay Connection

Timothy hay's coarse texture naturally wears down teeth as rabbits chew. The grinding motion required to break down long-stem hay keeps teeth at proper length and alignment. Rabbits who don't eat enough hay often develop:

• Overgrown incisors (front teeth)
• Molar spurs (sharp edges on back teeth)
• Misaligned teeth that don't wear evenly
• Abscesses from infected tooth roots

Signs of Dental Problems

Watch for these warning signs:

• Decreased appetite, especially for hay
• Drooling or wet chin
• Difficulty chewing or dropping food
• Weight loss
• Soft stools or cecotrope buildup
• Pawing at the mouth or face

Regular dental checks by an exotic veterinarian are essential for catching problems early. Learn more in our guide: [Common Dental Problems in Rabbits & How to Prevent Them].

Should Baby Rabbits Eat Differently Than Adults?

Yes, baby rabbits (under 6 months) have different nutritional needs than adults. Their growing bodies require higher protein and calcium levels.

Baby Rabbit Diet Guidelines

0-3 weeks: Mother's milk only 3-4 weeks: Begin introducing small amounts of alfalfa hay and alfalfa-based pellets 4-7 weeks: Continue nursing while gradually increasing solid foods 7 weeks: Weaning complete, unlimited alfalfa hay and pellets

4-6 months:

• Unlimited alfalfa hay
• Unlimited alfalfa-based pellets (18-20% protein)
• No vegetables until at least 12 weeks old
• Start with small amounts of leafy greens only

6-12 months (adolescent):

• Begin transition to timothy hay
• Reduce pellets to adult portions
• Introduce full variety of vegetables gradually

Transitioning to Adult Diet

The transition from baby to adult diet should be gradual:

• Week 1: 75% alfalfa hay, 25% timothy hay
• Week 2: 50% alfalfa hay, 50% timothy hay
• Week 3: 25% alfalfa hay, 75% timothy hay
• Week 4: 100% timothy hay

Pellet transition should follow the same timeline, moving from alfalfa-based to timothy-based formulas.

What About Senior Rabbit Nutrition?

Rabbits over 6 years old may need dietary adjustments to maintain health as they age. However, the basic diet remains the same unless specific health issues arise.

Senior Diet Modifications

Maintain the same basic diet but monitor for:

• Weight loss - may need increased pellets or higher-calorie hay
• Dental problems - might require softer hay or chopped vegetables
• Kidney issues - may need reduced protein pellets
• Arthritis - elevated food bowls might help

Always consult with a rabbit-savvy veterinarian before making significant dietary changes for senior rabbits.

How Do I Know If My Rabbit's Diet Is Working?

A well-fed rabbit shows clear signs of good health and vitality. Here's what to look for:

Signs of Optimal Nutrition

Physical Indicators:

• Bright, clear eyes without discharge
• Soft, glossy coat that's well-groomed
• Healthy weight - can feel ribs but not see them
• Good muscle tone and active movement
• Clean, dry nose and ears

Behavioral Signs:

• Enthusiastic eating of hay, pellets, and vegetables
• Active and curious behavior
• Normal grooming habits
• Playful and interactive with family
• Alert and responsive to environment

Digestive Health:

• Regular, round droppings that are firm but not hard
• Normal cecotrope production (eaten immediately by rabbit)
• Good appetite for all food types
• No signs of GI discomfort or bloating

When to Adjust the Diet

Consider dietary changes if you notice:

• Consistent weight gain or loss
• Decreased appetite for specific foods
• Changes in dropping consistency or frequency
• Dental problems developing
• Veterinary recommendations for health conditions

Where Can I Buy Quality Rabbit Food?

High-quality rabbit food is available from multiple sources, but not all retailers carry the best options.

Best Places to Shop

Specialty Pet Stores:

• Often carry premium brands
• Knowledgeable staff for questions
• Fresh stock turnover
• May offer bulk discounts

Online Retailers:

• Convenient subscription services
• Better prices on bulk orders
• Access to specialized brands
• Customer reviews for guidance

Farm and Feed Stores:

• Excellent hay selection and prices
• Bulk buying options
• Often carry premium pellet brands
• Good for rural rabbit owners

What to Avoid

Skip these retailers for rabbit food:

• Grocery stores (limited, poor-quality options)
• Discount stores (often old or improperly stored food)
• Garage sales or used pet supplies (unknown age and storage conditions)

Storage Tips:

• Keep pellets in cool, dry place
• Use within 6 months of manufacture date
• Store hay in breathable containers
• Check for mold or pest contamination regularly

Creating Your Rabbit's Perfect Diet Plan

Now that you understand the fundamentals of rabbit nutrition, it's time to put it all together. Remember, every rabbit is an individual, and you may need to adjust portions and foods based on your bunny's age, size, activity level, and health status.

Quick Reference Daily Diet Checklist

For a 5-pound adult rabbit:

• ✅ Unlimited timothy hay (body-sized pile daily)
• ✅ 1/4 cup timothy-based pellets
• ✅ 2-3 cups leafy greens
• ✅ 1/2 cup other vegetables
• ✅ 1-2 tablespoons fruit (optional)
• ✅ Fresh water available 24/7

Remember to:

• Introduce new foods gradually
• Monitor for digestive upset
• Maintain consistent feeding times
• Provide variety in vegetables
• Watch for changes in appetite or behavior

Important Health Resources

Stay informed about rabbit health by bookmarking these essential guides:

• [Understanding GI Stasis in Rabbits: Symptoms, Prevention & Treatment]
• [Rabbit Vitamin D & Calcium Needs: Maintaining Bone Health]
• [Signs of Illness in Rabbits: Recognizing Health Problems Early]
• [Common Dental Problems in Rabbits & How to Prevent Them]

Your Turn: Share Your Experience

What's been your biggest challenge in feeding your rabbit? Are you struggling with a picky eater who won't touch their hay? Or maybe you're confused about vegetable portions?

Share your rabbit feeding questions and experiences in the comments below! Our community of rabbit lovers is here to help, and your question might help another rabbit parent facing the same challenges.

Whether you're dealing with a hay-refusing bunny, trying to transition to a healthier diet, or just want to share your success story, we'd love to hear from you. What tips have worked best for your rabbit's diet?

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Remember: This guide provides general information about rabbit diet and nutrition. Always consult with a qualified exotic animal veterinarian for personalized advice about your rabbit's specific dietary needs, especially if your rabbit has health issues or is showing signs of illness.

External Resources:

• House Rabbit Society - Diet Guidelines
• RSPCA - Rabbit Care and Welfare
• Best Friends Animal Society - Rabbit Diet Guide
• Bunny World Foundation - Nutrition Information