Can rabbits eat broccoli is something you may want to know if you’re looking for other things to feed your rabbit.
While their diet should mainly consist of grass, either fresh or in the form of hay, there’s no reason your fluffy friend can’t enjoy a nice treat alongside some of the best food for rabbits. There are many surprising things that rabbits can eat, and you’ll be happy to know that broccoli is one of them!
Our vet, Dr. Rebecca MacMillan, does want pet owners to keep a few things in mind when it comes to serving this food in order for it to be safe. Keep on reading to find out how to serve broccoli and what to beware of.
Is broccoli good for rabbits?
Dr. Rebecca MacMillan says, “The tough stalks contain much more fiber which can lead to an increase in digestive gases. So, to avoid any groaning tummies, it is best to feed mainly broccoli leaves, with small amounts of florets and fine stems.”
Certain parts of broccoli can be fed to rabbits but only in moderation and in small amounts. This vegetable also needs to be fed raw and not cooked. However, in some rabbits, even a small amount of broccoli can cause gas to build up in the digestive system, so although it is suitable to feed, and can be fed in small amounts in rotation with other fruits and vegetables, you should avoid feeding large amounts to your rabbits, and if they have a sensitive digestive system, then avoid it altogether.
Your rabbits will have distinctive tastes and preferences and whilst some rabbits enjoy eating broccoli, others may not find it appealing and won’t eat it.
Can broccoli be dangerous to rabbits?
Any sudden dietary changes, such as changing your rabbit’s food or introducing a new food too quickly, can cause serious and potentially fatal digestive upsets to rabbits. It is important to take a minimum of two weeks to introduce a new food into your rabbit’s diet.
If there are any digestive problems, stop feeding it and exclude it from the diet. Signs may include:
- not eating as much
- stopping eating altogether
- fewer or no droppings being passed
- not eating caecotroph droppings
- liquid diarrhea
- a bloated, gas-filled abdomen
- lethargy
- painful tooth grinding
- collapse
All of these are very serious signs and you must contact your vet straight away, whether it’s day or night. Rabbits can deteriorate rapidly without correct veterinary treatment.
How much broccoli should I feed?
Too much of anything is never a good thing and broccoli is no different. Avoid feeding it to rabbits with any allergies, or intolerances, if it is cooked or picked from the wild. Picking it from the wild might feel au-natural but it carries a contamination and pesticide risk. Otherwise, the leaves and thin stems of broccoli are a great addition to the greens section of your rabbit's diet but it does need to be evenly rotated alongside other rabbit-safe fruit and veggies.
The portion control also requires some attention however this is best checked with your vet as to what the correct amount is for your particular bunny. If your rabbit is new to broccoli, however, always start with a tiny amount and watch for any adverse digestive reactions and increase (or not) from there. Remember to wash the broccoli first and store any excess in a refrigerator.
Other examples of rabbit-safe vegetables to include in their daily greens include parsley, coriander, mint, basil, kale, spinach, and celery. Recommended Vegetables and Herbs is a comprehensive list, from the Rabbit Welfare Association and Fund (RWAF), of which fresh foods you can feed to your rabbits.
How should I serve broccoli?
When serving broccoli to your rabbit you’ll want to be sure to serve it raw. Cooking broccoli can remove some of the nutrients that are good for your bunny to have. Dr. MacMillan also says, “If your rabbit has never had broccoli before then try offering very small amounts to begin with to allow them to get used to it gradually.”
Many rabbits enjoy eating broccoli as part of a balanced and healthy diet but it is always wise to check with your vet if they can consume said food or research questions like can rabbits eat celery? Broccoli, however, if introduced slowly, fed appropriately, and in moderation is a safe and healthy choice to give to your rabbit.
Enjoyed this feature? Check out 32 things rabbits shouldn’t eat.
