what do bunnies eat

what do bunnies eat

2 hours ago 2
Nature

Bunnies (rabbits) primarily eat a diet rich in fiber and plant-based foods. The main staple of a rabbit's diet is hay, which should make up about 80-90% of their intake. Good types of hay for bunnies include timothy, orchard grass, brome, and oat hay. Adult rabbits should have unlimited access to fresh hay daily to support healthy digestion and wear down their continuously growing teeth. In addition to hay, rabbits eat fresh vegetables and herbs as part of their diet, with about 1-2 cups daily for adult rabbits. Safe vegetables include bell peppers, bok choy, carrot tops, cucumber, herbs like basil and parsley, and lettuces such as romaine and green leaf. Some vegetables, like carrots and broccoli, should be given sparingly due to higher sugar or calcium content. Fruit can be fed occasionally as a treat, no more than once or twice a week, in small amounts (1-2 tablespoons per 5 pounds of body weight). Suitable fruits include apples (without seeds), bananas, berries, melons, peaches, and pears. However, fruits are high in sugar and should be limited to prevent digestive upset. Pellets made from high-fiber timothy hay can be given in small amounts but should not contain seeds, grains, or nuts. It's important to avoid feeding rabbits foods like potatoes, corn, beans, seeds, nuts, or iceberg lettuce, as these can cause health issues. Fresh, clean water should always be available to rabbits. Overall, a healthy bunny diet is mainly unlimited fresh hay, supplemented with measured amounts of fresh vegetables, occasional fruit treats, and a small portion of high-quality pellets for nutritional balance.

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