Feed, Water & Hay

This is one of the most important aspects in raising a rabbit properly. The correct feed and feeding methods will help your rabbit live a happier, healthier life.

Water is the most important nutrient you can give your rabbit. He or she should ALWAYS have access to cool, clean, fresh water - even if it means changing frozen crocks in the winter. Without water, a rabbit will not eat.

A good quality pellet rabbit food is essential for keeping your rabbit in good health. Pellets should make up the majority of your rabbits' diet. Young rabbits, under the age of 3 months, should have fresh pellets available at all times. As the rabbit begins to grow, you will need to limit the daily intake of pellets. The most common problem in feeding is over-feeding. If you over-feed your animal, it will become excessively fat. This can lead to a very unhealthy rabbit and will also result in breeding problems. So, please - even if your older rabbits may eat whatever you put in front of them, limit their pellet intake. A good rule of thumb is to feed 1 oz of pellets to every pound of bunny.

Hay is also essential for a healthy rabbit's diet. Hay provides fiber, which helps to keep bunnies stomachs in good working order. All rabbits should have access to fresh, clean hay at all times. It is important for wooled breeds to have hay to help prevent wool block. Kits in the next boxes will nibble hay as their first solid food. If you have a wooled breed, hay is important to keep the digestive system working and prevent wool-blocks. Also, animals with wool need a higher protein feed to keep their wool production going.

Remember to feed hay and not alfalfa or straw. Alfalfa is too high in protein to be tolerated well by rabbits (especially smaller breeds). Too much protein, over a long period of time can cause damage to liver, kidney and other vital internal organs. Stay away from straw too, as it has little nutritional value. If you don't know how to tell the difference between hay, alfalfa, and straw, ask your local feed dealer to show you the different bales. 

Hay will be green with long blades that look similar to grass. Alfalfa will be dark green with large stems and leaves that look like clover plants. Straw will be bright yellow and be mostly large stems with no leaves at all.

Article written by Mindy Borer
Rabbit Registrar #RR473
www.TranquilAcresRabbitry.com