Yes, Rabbits Can Eat Cucumbers! But Follow These Tips

Polish Rabbit
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Written by Jennifer Magid

Published: November 23, 2023

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You might automatically think of carrots when you picture a rabbit chomping on a treat. But what other types of vegetables are a snack for bunnies? Specifically, can they safely munch on cucumbers? The answer is, yes, rabbits can eat cucumbers.

They’re a delicious treat for bunnies, but should not be a daily part of their diet. Cucumbers are very hydrating thanks to their high water content. But they aren’t very high in vitamins and minerals. They don’t provide enough nutritional value for rabbits to eat as daily food.

How Much Cucumber Can a Rabbit Eat?

Decorative Rabbit on a Greens Background. Cute Fluffy Bunny Sits in Near Romaine Lettuce Salad, Cabbage, Dill, Parsley, Oak Salad, Corn, Asparagus and Spinach. Various Natural Organic Food For Vegans

Rabbits need to eat greens, but cucumbers only count as a treat.

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Think of cucumbers as a dessert for rabbits, not a meal. Therefore, they should only have an appropriate amount for their size and weight. A large breed rabbit will be able to stomach more than a small one. Start by offering one or two thin slices, a couple times a week at most, and see how your rabbit does.

What Happens if a Rabbit Eats Too Much Cucumber?

Cucumber is filled with water, and it can cause diarrhea and gastrointestinal distress if rabbits eat too much of it. This is because rabbits need high-fiber foods in their diet, which cucumber doesn’t contain much of. Additionally, cucumbers are low in vitamins, so a rabbit that eats too many of them over their other foods could experience nutritional deficiencies. They may even lose weight because the high amount of water in cucumbers is filling them up. 

Can Rabbits Eat the Cucumber’s Skin?

Rabbits can safely eat any part of the cucumber, including the skin and seeds. However, before offering it as a snack to your rabbit, the cucumber needs to be washed thoroughly to remove any wax and pesticides.

What Foods Rabbits Need To Eat Daily

Rufus Rabbit eats a sprig of parsley on deck with sunflowers in background

Rabbits need plenty of fiber in their diet.

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A balanced diet for rabbits includes daily leafy greens, hay, and food pellets. Rabbits need grass and hay to help with digestion. Other fruits and veggies can be given as supplemental treats a few times a week.


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About the Author

Jennifer is a writer at A-Z Animals where her primary focus is on dogs, travel, and gardening. She holds a Master's Degree in Journalism from New York University. A resident of Connecticut who has lived all over the country, Jennifer enjoys working on trick training with her standard poodle, and spending time with her family outdoors.

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