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Small pets Nutrition & feeding

What to Feed a Rabbit

In short

Rabbits are herbivores whose diet should be built on unlimited grass hay (such as timothy), which makes up the bulk of what they eat. Add a daily portion of suitable leafy greens, a small measured amount of plain pellets, and constant fresh water. Avoid sugary treats and selective 'muesli' mixes. Introduce any change gradually, and treat a rabbit that stops eating or passing droppings as an emergency. This is general guidance — your veterinarian can tailor it.

What a rabbit's diet is built on

  • Grass hay, available at all times — it should be the largest part of the diet and is vital for digestion and dental wear.
  • Fresh leafy greens daily, introduced gradually and varied within safe options.
  • A small, measured amount of plain (uniform) pellets — not the main food.
  • Constant access to clean, fresh water.

Foods to limit or avoid

Many rabbit health problems trace back to too little hay and too many of the wrong extras.

  • Muesli-style mixes that let rabbits pick out sugary bits and leave the rest (selective feeding).
  • Sugary or starchy treats, including many commercial 'rabbit treats' and excess fruit.
  • Sudden diet changes, which can upset the sensitive gut.
  • Foods that are toxic or unsuitable — check before offering anything new.

Rabbit feeding checklist

  • Keep grass hay available at all times.
  • Offer a daily portion of suitable leafy greens, introduced gradually.
  • Give only a small, measured amount of plain pellets.
  • Provide constant fresh water.
  • Monitor eating and droppings daily, and contact a vet promptly if either stops.

What not to assume

  • Do not make pellets or muesli the main food — hay comes first.
  • Do not assume all greens or garden plants are safe; check each one.
  • Do not change the diet suddenly.
  • Do not wait and see if a rabbit stops eating — it can deteriorate quickly.

When to ask a veterinarian

Nutrition is individual, and this page cannot assess your specific pet. Ask a licensed veterinarian — ideally before major changes — especially in these situations.

  • Puppies, kittens, pregnancy or nursing, or seniors — life stages with particular needs.
  • Weight concerns, a changing body condition, or any recommended weight-loss or weight-gain plan.
  • Any diagnosed condition or prescription diet (for example kidney, urinary, diabetic, or allergy diets).
  • Vomiting, diarrhoea, appetite loss, or refusal to eat that lasts or keeps coming back.
  • Before a major diet change, or if you are considering a raw, vegetarian, or home-prepared diet.

What to Feed a Rabbit — Frequently Asked Questions

What should make up most of a rabbit's diet?
Grass hay, available at all times. It provides the fibre rabbits need for healthy digestion and helps wear down their continuously growing teeth. Greens, a little pellet food, and water complete the diet.
Why is a rabbit that stops eating an emergency?
A rabbit's digestive system needs to keep moving. When a rabbit stops eating or passing droppings, it can become seriously unwell quickly. Contact a veterinarian promptly rather than waiting. This page is educational and not a substitute for veterinary care.
Are muesli-style rabbit mixes a good idea?
They are generally discouraged because rabbits tend to pick out the sugary, starchy pieces and leave the fibrous parts, leading to an unbalanced diet. A hay-first diet with plain pellets is widely preferred.

Sources and further reading

Authoritative references used for general educational context. External links open in a new tab and these organisations do not endorse FaunaHub. Specific feeding amounts and diet choices depend on the individual animal and should be confirmed with the food label and a licensed veterinarian.