With their floppy ears and bushy tails, rabbits are adorably cute pets. They thrive on eating a diet full of hay and vegetables. It can be confusing for both new and seasoned rabbit owners to know which foods are safe for your fluffy friend to enjoy. As the title suggests, rabbits eat broccoli!
In fact, it can be one of their favorite foods in addition to peppers, spinach, and carrots. If you’re considering giving your rabbit broccoli, follow these tips to give them this fibrous treat safely.
1. Feed in Moderation
Rabbits love to eat carrots, kale, and bell peppers.
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When you decide to start feeding your rabbit broccoli, start with a small amount each time. No more than one tablespoon of broccoli should be given for every two pounds of the rabbit’s weight. This is because bigger rabbits can process broccoli better than small ones.
2. For Adults Only
Young rabbits eat primarily alfalfa and timothy hay.
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You should never give this vegetable to baby or juvenile rabbits. Fully grown rabbits can enjoy broccoli once they are at least six months old. In fact, any rabbit under six months old typically shouldn’t eat anything but hay.
3. Safe Parts of Broccoli
If you own several rodents, it can be well worth it to grow your own vegetables.
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Generally speaking, these animals can eat the majority of the broccoli plant. Whether you’re growing it yourself or buying from the store, the most nutritious parts of broccoli for rabbits are the leaves and thin stems.
The florets and thick stems may be hard for them to digest and should be avoided when possible.
4. Cut It Up
Rabbits need to constantly chew on vegetables and hay due to their constantly growing teeth.
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You don’t want to just place a head of this vegetable into their enclosure. When it comes time to feed your rabbit broccoli, make sure it is thoroughly washed. You’ll also want to chop it up into little chunks so that the floppy-eared critter doesn’t choke.
5. Watch for a Reaction
Vets can give your pet gas medicine if they have a bad reaction to broccoli.
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If you’ve never fed a rabbit broccoli before, you’ll want to watch them closely after feeding it to them for the first time. Due to its nutrients, broccoli often causes gas. Because rabbits are prey animals, they may hide any signs that they are feeling discomfort.
Be on the lookout for a change in behavior such as less energy, hiding, or resting in a strange position. While gas typically passes on its own, your vet can help when needed. If you do see any of these symptoms after feeding your rabbit broccoli, consider eliminating this food from its diet in the future.
