Feeding

House rabbits are provided an unlimited amount of timothy hay—roughage that reduces the chance of blockages and malocclusion while providing indigestible fiber necessary to keep the gut moving. They are typically given about two cups chopped dark, green, leafy vegetables per 6 pounds of body weight and up to two tablespoons of fruit or carrots per six pounds body weight daily. House rabbit owners commonly provide treats, although in very limited quantities, which can include a few pellets, a slice of strawberry, or other healthy foods. Advertised treats in the pet stores are occasionally used, although even more sparingly, since they typically have very high sugar and starch content.

Some of the vegetables that rabbits enjoy are romaine lettuce, escarole, turnips, collard, kale, parsley, thyme, cilantro, dandelion, and basil. The green, leafy tops of radishes and carrots also are excellent sources of nutrients—more than the vegetable itself. New vegetables are introduced slowly since rabbits have delicate digestive systems. Cauliflower, broccoli and cabbage are avoided because they cause gas and can lead to gastrointestinal stasis, which can be fatal. Starchy vegetables such as potatoes and corn are also avoided.

Pellets made from timothy grass supplement a house rabbit's diet. This differs from commercial rabbits, where pellets account for a much larger portion. Pellet amounts are determined by the weight of the rabbit and are listed on the back of the manufacturer’s packaging. Unlike pellets for rodents, rabbit pellets do not contain nuts, which contain more fat than rabbits can easily metabolize and can cause health problems such as fatty liver. If fresh grass or hay is not available, a high quality pellet is sometimes used as a fallback instead of hay as the staple food.

House rabbits are provided an unlimited amount of fresh water, usually in a water crock, tip-proof ceramic pet dish, or hanging water bottle. Rabbits on a consistent dietary regimen of fresh vegetables will drink less water, sourcing it instead through their greens.

Young rabbits have special dietary needs. They benefit from legume hays and pellets such as alfalfa, which are higher in protein, calories, and calcium than grasses. They are introduced to vegetables at 12 weeks old and fruit at 7 months. Also at 7 months, they begin transitioning from legumes to grass.