What Should Rabbits Eat? A Complete Guide to Rabbit Nutrition

Medically reviewed by Dr. Pritesh Vidhate, BVSc & AH, MVSc (Veterinary Epidemiology & Preventive Medicine).

Rabbit diet myths — mostly pellets, mostly treats, carrots as a dietary staple — are directly linked to some of the most common health problems seen in pet rabbits.

The Foundation: Hay

Unlimited, good-quality hay should make up the majority of a rabbit's diet — it drives dental wear and gut motility simultaneously.

Vegetables and Pellets

Fresh, rabbit-safe vegetables and a measured amount of quality pellets round out the diet, while sugary treats (including carrots in excess) should be limited.

What to Avoid

High-sugar treats, excessive pellets, and low-fiber diets are all linked to dental disease, obesity, and GI stasis.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are carrots bad for rabbits?
Not inherently, but they should be a small treat, not a dietary staple, due to sugar content.

How much hay does a rabbit need daily?
Roughly its own body size in hay volume, available at all times.

Can diet changes cause GI stasis?
Yes, sudden changes can disrupt gut motility — introduce changes gradually.

⚠️ If you notice these signs in your pet, don't wait it out at home.

Call Shivraj Pet Clinic & Lab at 077569 65169 or book an appointment online — we serve pet parents across Pimple Nilakh, Wakad, Pimple Saudagar, and Vishal Nagar, with same-visit lab results and full diagnostic support under one roof.