Rabbits can eat mango. It isn’t harmful to them and may even provide some nutritional benefits. However, it isn’t necessarily the healthiest thing to feed them, either. Keep reading to learn how to feed rabbits mangos safely.
1. Moderation
Mangoes are known to contain high levels of sugar, which can potentially harm your rabbit’s digestive system. Rabbits have very sensitive stomachs, so taking good care of their digestive health is important. Keeping your rabbit’s stomach healthy should be your top priority as their caretaker.
Limit their mango intake to only once or twice per week. Offer very small pieces each time – only about the size of a teaspoon. Keep an eye on your rabbit after each snack. Some rabbits may not do well with even this small amount of mango. If your rabbit reacts severely to even a small amount of mango, you should discontinue giving it.
2. Remove the Skin and Pit
Always cut and peel the mango before giving it to your rabbit.
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Rabbits have a hard time digesting the skin of the mango. While it isn’t toxic, removing it before giving the mango to your rabbit is best. Otherwise, their chance of side effects may increase.
The pit is a choking hazard and cannot really be eaten by your rabbit. Remove it before giving the flesh to your bunny.
3. Introduce Mango Slowly
You should never go from 0 to 100, especially when dealing with your rabbit’s sensitive digestive system. It’s best to start with a very small piece and work your way to more as your rabbit tolerates it.
Of course, because mango has so much sugar, you may literally need to start with only a lick of mango puree. It’s important not to overdo it.
Signs that your rabbit isn’t taking well to the mango include diarrhea, loss of appetite, gas, and similar stomach problems.
4. Consider Your Rabbit
Not all rabbits need mango. There are some rabbits that would do best without any mango at all. Rabbits with health problems like diabetes and obesity should skip on mangos altogether, as they can do more harm than good.
If you’re ever in doubt, speak with your vet about whether mango is a good choice for your rabbit.
5. Wash the Mango
All types of mangos are safe for rabbits, but be cautious to prepare them all properly.
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You never know what a mango from the store will have on it. While you should be removing and peeling the skin of the mango, it’s also important to wash the mango thoroughly to remove pesticides and chemicals from the mango.
The flesh of the mango can become contaminated by chemicals on the outside while you’re peeling it. Therefore, just peeling the mango isn’t enough.
6. Choose Very Ripe Mangos
It’s best to choose very ripe mangos, as these are softest and easiest for your rabbit to digest. Typically, the softer the mango is, the better. Avoid unripe mangos, as these may be too tough for your rabbit to eat.
