Rabbits are herbivorous mammals classified as hindgut fermenters. They have a small, simple stomach that only does a small part of food digestion. The majority of digestion occurs in the caecum and colon, where bacteria and digestive enzymes ferment herbage into absorbable nutrients.
Rabbits also have constantly growing teeth. An appropriate diet not only provides complete nutrition for health but also keeps the teeth in good condition so a rabbit can continue to feed.
Long-stemmed hay must form at least 80% of a rabbit’s diet. Grass or oaten hays are best and must be provided 24/7. Hay promotes natural foraging behaviour necessary to keep the teeth ground down and the digestive system happy. Chaffs do not provide the necessary roughage and should not be given as an alternative to long-cut hay.
Fruits and vegetables can be given to rabbits in moderation. Strawberries, apples, carrots, kale, spinach, Romania lettuce, cos lettuce, parsley and dill can all be given to rabbits safely. Iceberg lettuce must not be fed to rabbits.
Pelleted feeds, available at many pet stores, cannot be a major part of the diet. Pellets do not provide the necessary roughage for digestive health and do not allow normal foraging behaviours. Pellets have a tendency to contribute to obesity in rabbits. Therefore, only a very small component of the diet should be pelleted feeds although it is best to avoid pellets in preference for fresh vegetables.
Remember that freshwater must be provided at all times. Should your rabbit develop diarrhoea or show signs of abdominal discomfort (since rabbits cannot vomit) please consult your veterinarian for advice.