Expert Rabbit Nutrition Guide

Rabbit Nutrition Guide 2026

A rabbit's digestive system is designed for grazing on fiber. The wrong diet (too many pellets, wrong veggies) is the #1 cause of illness in pet rabbits (GI stasis). A healthy rabbit diet is surprisingly simple: mostly hay!

Quick Answer

A balanced rabbit diet needs the right mix of protein, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Browse our diet guides below for life-stage and condition-specific advice.

🌾

80%

Diet should be hay

🥗

1 cup

Veggies per 2lbs body weight

🥣

1/4 cup

Pellets per day (max)

⏰

24/7

Access to hay is vital

Nutritional Needs Overview

Rabbits are hindgut fermenters. They need constant fiber moving through their gut to stay alive. If a rabbit stops eating for even 12 hours, it is a medical emergency.

⚡ Essential Nutrients

Fiber

The single most important nutrient. Keeps the gut moving and wears down teeth.

Best Sources: Timothy hay, Orchard grass

Water

Rabbits drink as much as a small dog. Dehydration leads to stasis.

Best Sources: Fresh water bowl (better than bottle)

Vitamin A

Important for immune health, but toxic in excess.

Best Sources: Dark leafy greens (moderation)

🚫 Foods to Avoid

Iceberg Lettuce

Contains lactucarium which can be harmful; high water content causes diarrhea.

Avocado

Fatal to rabbits.

Bread/Crackers

High carb caused fatal bloating/stasis.

Yogurt Drops

Commonly sold but dangerous. Rabbits are vegans and cannot digest dairy.

Garlic/Onion

Toxic to blood cells.

Diet Types & Guides

Compare feeding options and find what works for your Rabbit.

Diet Type

The Hay Diet

Understanding the importance of hay.

Pros

Essential for gut health
Wears down teeth

Cons

Can be messy

💡Pro Feeding Tips

✅

Unlimited Timothy hay should be available 24/7

✅

Fresh leafy greens daily (Romaine, Cilantro, Parsley)

✅

Limit pellets to a small amount (mostly for vitamins)

✅

Fruit is a treat only (high sugar causes gut bacteria imbalance)

✅

Use a heavy ceramic bowl for water (they drink more than from a bottle)

Frequently Asked Questions

What is GI Stasis?▼

It is when the gut stops moving. It is painful and fatal if untreated. Caused by stress, dehydration, or lack of fiber. If your rabbit stops eating or pooping, go to a vet immediately.

Can rabbits eat carrots?▼

Only as a treat! Bugs Bunny was wrong. Carrots are high in sugar. Feed the green tops instead—they are much healthier.

Explore More

✅ Safe & Unsafe Foods for Rabbits 🐾 Browse Rabbit Breeds 💰 Rabbit Cost Breakdown

Trusted sources: AAFCO, AVMA Nutrition

Not Sure What to Feed?

Ask our AI assistant for a personalized diet plan based on your Rabbit's specific needs, age, and health conditions.

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