Rabbits usually eat leafy greens and fruits. But, many rabbits are also seen chewing or nibbling on animal-based foods like milk on occasion. So, the main question is – are rabbits omnivores? Find all the related information about their diets and eating habits here.
Are rabbits omnivores? Rabbits are not omnivores. They are herbivores. A rabbit only eats plant-based foods, including vegetables, leaves, hay, fruits, and vegetables. In general, rabbits eat only hay, grass, and leafy greens. Bit, occasional treats of vegetables and fruits can help them get all the nutritional benefits through a proper diet.
Why does a rabbit eat animal-based food?
Being herbivores, rabbits should not eat any animal-based or meat-based products. But, there are a few cases when a rabbit eats meat. In some cases, a few mother rabbits were reported to eat off their offspring.
Most rabbits usually eat meat-based products or meats if they do not have any food to eat. In such extreme cases, a bunny eats anything it gets to survive.
But, meat or meat-based products are dangerous for any rabbit. They do not have a capable digestion system for digesting the meat. Additionally, meat-based products are high in protein and fat. Rabbits do not have any capacity to digest these. It only has the capacity of digesting plant-based items, which are high in carbohydrates and fiber. Meat-based products will not offer them their needed nutrition.
Hence, rabbits should not eat meat at any cost. They might develop serious health issues if they eat meat. You should always feed a rabbit only plant-based foods.
What to feed your rabbit?
1. Hay
Rabbits require a lot of fiber. It keeps their digestive system function and also helps them to remain full. Hay grass also has another purpose. A rabbits’ teeth continue to grow during its lifetime. Overgrown teeth can cause accidents and injuries. Chewing hay allows them to keep the growing incisors in control and lead a healthy life. Hence, rabbits should be offered hay grass as they grow.
A rabbit should have enough hay. Good quality hay with lots of fibers is ideal for them. Timothy hay, alfalfa hay, brome hay should be given to them in bulk. Try to avoid hay grass-like alfalfa as they are high in protein and calcium.
2. Leafy greens
Besides hay grass, rabbits should be fed leafy greens like cabbage, kale, lettuce, spinach, etc. You can also feed them mustard greens, carrot tips, watercress, beet greens, broccoli, and cilantro. These items will provide them enough nutrition.
3. Fruits and Vegetables as treats
Rabbits should be given treats on occasion. Fruits and vegetables like watermelon, carrot, and bananas are excellent for treats.
You can also feed pellets to your rabbits. These ready-made foods are excellent. But, combine these with regular food items for a balanced diet.
4. Water
You should provide clean and drinkable water to your rabbits every day. They require a lot of water. Provide them water regularly.
Final Words
Rabbits are strict herbivores, not omnivores. Their body is not equipped to digest high protein and fat-rich items. Hence, rabbits should not eat any animal-based products, which can lead to serious health issues. Premium quality hay grass, leafy greens, and fruits or vegetables as treats are ideal for rabbits.
