What rabbits should eat every day

Hay isn't optional — it's the foundation of a healthy rabbit diet.

Rabbits are grazers built for constant fiber. At least 80% of a healthy rabbit's diet should be fresh, unlimited grass hay such as timothy, orchard, or meadow hay. Hay keeps their digestive system moving and their teeth worn down.

Pellets are a supplement, not a main meal. Choose a plain timothy-based pellet without colorful seeds or dried fruit, and feed about 1/4 cup per 5 pounds of body weight daily. Alfalfa is fine for young rabbits but too rich for most adults.

Offer a variety of leafy greens daily — romaine, cilantro, parsley, and dandelion greens are favorites. Avoid iceberg lettuce and limit high-calcium greens like kale if your bunny is prone to bladder sludge.

Treats should be tiny. Small pieces of carrot, apple, or strawberry are fine a few times a week, but sugary or starchy foods disrupt gut bacteria. Fresh water, changed daily, should always be available.