Rabbit Awareness Week is the perfect time to brush up on the basics of rabbit care, and one of the most important aspects of keeping your bunny healthy is getting their diet right.
A proper rabbit diet does much more than satisfy hunger. It supports healthy digestion, keeps teeth in good condition, and can even help prevent serious health problems. Unfortunately, many pet rabbits are fed too many treats and not enough fibre.
Here’s everything you need to know about feeding your rabbit.
A healthy rabbit diet should include:
🌾 80-90% Hay and Grass
🥬 10-15% Fresh Leafy Greens
🐇 Up to 5% High-Fibre Pellets
🍎 Treats Only Occasionally
💧 Fresh Water Available at All Times
Hay should make up the vast majority of your rabbit’s diet. Rabbits are natural grazers and are designed to eat fibrous plant material throughout the day.
Eating plenty of hay helps to:
A rabbit that isn’t eating enough hay is at greater risk of developing both digestive and dental issues.
Fresh leafy greens provide additional vitamins, minerals and hydration.
Good options include:
Introduce new foods gradually and feed a variety of greens rather than large amounts of one type.
Pellets should only make up a small part of your rabbit’s diet. Choose a high-fibre pellet and feed in moderation.
Too many pellets can lead to:
Pellets should supplement the diet, not replace hay.
Yes, but treats should be given sparingly.
Fruit such as apple, strawberry or banana can be offered occasionally in very small quantities. Commercial treats that are high in sugar should be avoided where possible.
Remember, rabbits have sensitive digestive systems and too many sugary treats can upset the balance of healthy gut bacteria.
Fresh water should always be available.
Many rabbits prefer drinking from a heavy ceramic bowl, as it allows them to drink in a more natural position and often encourages better water intake. Some owners choose to provide both a bowl and a bottle so their rabbit can choose.
Contact your veterinary team if your rabbit:
Changes in appetite or eating habits can be early indicators of dental disease or digestive problems and should never be ignored.
Rabbit Awareness Week 2026 is a great reminder that good nutrition forms the foundation of a healthy, happy rabbit. By focusing on a high-fibre diet and encouraging natural grazing behaviours, you can help support your rabbit’s digestive health, dental health and overall wellbeing.
If you have any questions about your rabbit’s diet or would like tailored advice, our veterinary team is always happy to help.
