How to Care for Rabbits
How to Care for Rabbits
Food & Water
One of the most crucial aspects of rabbit care is their diet. These are our top tips on rabbit nutrition and diet:
- Rabbits need specialised rabbit food to provide the necessary nutrients they need every day.
- As rabbits are herbivores (animals that only eat plants), they also need plenty of good quality forage, such as leaves and grasses, to eat.
- You should ensure your rabbit has access to hay every day (ideally enough to match their own body weight), which helps with digestion and keeping their teeth healthy.
- Ensure your rabbit has access to fresh and clean water at all times. Regularly check and refill their water bottle or bowl to keep them hydrated.
Remember, each rabbit is unique, so you should adjust their feeding quantities accordingly. If in doubt, consult your vet for personalised advice.
Treats & Snacks
While treats can be a delightful way to bond with your rabbit, feeding lots of treats can put your rabbits off eating their main foods, which provide a lot more nutritional value. On days when you do provide lots of treats or snacks to your rabbit, reduce the food you’re giving them at mealtimes.
Avoid giving human food as snacks as they are often too fatty for rabbits. However, you can occasionally offer root vegetables and fruits as treats, but not too often as they can are high in starch and sugar.
Bowl Refilling & Cleaning
To maintain cleanliness and hygiene, provide separate bowls for your rabbit's food and water. This helps prevent contamination and ensures that their food remains fresh. You should also remember to wash their food and water bowls regularly to avoid the buildup of bacteria and other harmful pathogens.
Maintaining portion control is crucial when feeding your rabbit. Avoid refilling half-empty bowls until your rabbit finishes all the food you've already provided them. This ensures that they don't overeat and helps prevent obesity. Keep an eye on their eating habits and adjust the portions accordingly to maintain a healthy weight.
Use this guide if you're unsure about a healthy size and weight for your rabbit.
