Rabbits Eating Grass: Safe or Risky?

As a bunny owner, you know that your rabbit's diet plays a huge role in their health. Their digestive system is delicate, and even small changes in what they eat can lead to stomach problems. But what about rabbits eating grass? Is it safe? Should it be part of their diet?

Click Here For a Guide to Understanding Your Rabbits Diet.

Fresh grass might seem like the perfect natural food for your rabbit, but there are important do's and don'ts to remember. Let's explore the benefits, risks, and best practices for feeding grass to your furry friend.

The Benefits of Rabbits Eating Grass

In the wild, rabbits rely on grass as a main food source. It's packed with fiber, helps keep their teeth worn down, and supports a healthy digestive system. But can pet rabbits eat grass in the same way?

Yes! Fresh, untreated grass is safe and nutritious for rabbits when introduced properly. Here's why:

• High in fiber: Just like hay, grass is rich in fiber, which promotes healthy digestion and prevents gastrointestinal issues like bloating or GI stasis.

• Natural chewing activity: Rabbits' teeth grow continuously, and chewing on fresh grass helps wear them down naturally.

• Hydration boost: Fresh grass contains moisture, which can help keep your rabbit hydrated, especially during warmer months.

• Encourages natural foraging behavior: Allowing your rabbit to graze on grass mimics their natural environment and provides mental stimulation.

While fresh grass has many benefits, it's important to feed it correctly to avoid potential health risks.

Do’s of Rabbits Eating Grass

When letting your rabbit eat grass, follow these important guidelines to ensure their safety:

• Introduce grass gradually: If your rabbit has never eaten fresh grass before, start with small amounts and monitor their digestion. Sudden changes in diet can cause an upset stomach.

• Ensure the grass is pesticide-free: Only offer grass that is free from pesticides, herbicides, or other lawn chemicals. These substances can be toxic to rabbits.

• Supervise outdoor grazing: If your rabbit roams outside, make sure they're in a secure, clean area where they won't ingest harmful plants or chemicals.

• Harvest fresh grass yourself: If you prefer to feed your rabbit grass indoors, clip fresh grass with scissors and offer it in small handfuls.

• Pair grass with hay: Fresh grass can be a great addition to your rabbit's diet, but it should never replace high-fiber hay like Timothy hay, which is essential for digestion and dental health.

Don’ts of Rabbits Eating Grass

There are a few key dangers to avoid when feeding your rabbit grass. Here's what you should never do:

• Don't feed lawn mower clippings: The heat and pressure from mowing cause grass to ferment quickly, making it dangerous for rabbits to eat. Fermented grass can lead to digestive issues, including bloating and GI stasis. Learn more about why fresh grass is better than lawn clippings.

• Don't feed grass from treated lawns: If your grass has been sprayed with pesticides, herbicides, or fertilizers, do not let your rabbit eat it. These chemicals can be toxic and even fatal.

• Don't allow access to poisonous plants: Some weeds and plants that grow among the grass can be harmful to rabbits. Always check for toxic plants like buttercups, foxglove, or ivy before letting your rabbit graze. The PSDA provides a list of plants that are harmful to rabbits.

• Don't rely on grass alone: While fresh grass is healthy, it doesn't contain all the nutrients that rabbits need. Always provide unlimited access to high-quality hay for a balanced diet.

• Don't let them eat damp or moldy grass: Wet grass can develop mold, which can be harmful if ingested. Always make sure the grass you provide is fresh and dry.

  

How to Safely Introduce Grass into Your Rabbit's Diet

If your rabbit has never eaten grass before, take a slow and careful approach:

1. Start by offering a few blades of fresh, clean grass and observe your rabbit's reaction.

2. If they eat it without any digestive upset, gradually increase the amount over a few days.

3. Always monitor their droppings. If you notice diarrhea or changes in stool consistency, stop feeding grass and consult a vet.

4. Continue providing plenty of hay to ensure they get enough fiber.

Rabbits Eating Grass vs. Eating Hay

Many rabbit owners wonder: If rabbits eat grass, do they still need hay? The short answer is yes.

While grass and hay are similar, hay is an essential part of a rabbit's diet for several reasons:

• Hay is dried and concentrated: It provides a steady source of fiber and essential nutrients year-round.

• It's easier to store and provide: Fresh grass isn't always available, but hay is a reliable staple.

• It supports dental health: Chewing hay keeps rabbit teeth in good shape, preventing overgrowth.

Even if your rabbit enjoys eating fresh grass, always provide high-quality hay as the foundation of their diet. Learn why hay is the most important part of a rabbit's diet.

Final Thoughts on Rabbits Eating Grass

Rabbits eating grass can be a great way to provide them with a natural, fiber-rich treat—if done safely. The key is to introduce it gradually, ensure it's pesticide-free, and never replace their hay with grass alone.

If you're looking for the best way to keep your rabbit healthy, fresh grass can be a fun addition to their diet, but high-quality hay should always come first.