Age-Specific Feeding Guide for Rabbits: Ensuring a Healthy Diet

🐰 Newborn Rabbits (0-3 Weeks)

Newborn rabbits, also known as kits, are entirely dependent on their mother’s milk for nutrition. During this crucial period, they should be left undisturbed with their mother to nurse freely. Supplementation is generally unnecessary unless the mother is unable to produce enough milk or abandons the litter. In such cases, consult with a veterinarian experienced in rabbit care for guidance on appropriate milk replacers and feeding techniques.

• ✔ Allow kits to nurse freely from their mother.
• ✔ Monitor kits for signs of adequate weight gain and hydration.
• ✔ Consult a veterinarian if the mother is unable to care for her kits.

🐰 Young Rabbits (3-7 Weeks)

As rabbits transition from newborns to young bunnies, their diet gradually shifts from solely milk to include solid foods. Around 3 weeks of age, they will begin to nibble on hay and their mother’s pellets. This is a natural process of weaning and introduces them to the textures and flavors of their future diet. It is important to provide unlimited access to high-quality hay, such as timothy or orchard grass, and a small amount of age-appropriate pellets.

Introduce fresh greens sparingly and observe your rabbit for any signs of digestive upset. Avoid sugary treats and fruits during this period, as their digestive systems are still developing and sensitive to high sugar levels. Always ensure fresh, clean water is available.

• ✔ Offer unlimited access to high-quality hay.
• ✔ Introduce age-appropriate pellets in small quantities.
• ✔ Introduce fresh greens sparingly, monitoring for digestive issues.
• ✔ Provide fresh, clean water at all times.

🐰 Juvenile Rabbits (7 Weeks – 6 Months)

During this growth phase, rabbits require a balanced diet to support their rapid development. Continue providing unlimited access to high-quality hay, which should constitute the majority of their diet. Increase the amount of pellets gradually, following the guidelines on the packaging. Introduce a wider variety of fresh greens, such as romaine lettuce, kale, and parsley, in moderation.

Avoid iceberg lettuce, as it offers minimal nutritional value. Also, refrain from feeding starchy vegetables like potatoes and corn. Monitor your rabbit’s weight and adjust their food intake accordingly to prevent obesity. Regular veterinary check-ups are crucial during this period to ensure healthy growth and development.

• ✔ Maintain unlimited access to high-quality hay.
• ✔ Gradually increase pellet intake based on package instructions.
• ✔ Introduce a variety of fresh greens in moderation.
• ✔ Monitor weight and adjust food intake to prevent obesity.
• ✔ Schedule regular veterinary check-ups.

🐰 Adult Rabbits (6 Months – 5 Years)

Adult rabbits require a consistent and well-balanced diet to maintain their health and weight. Hay should remain the cornerstone of their diet, comprising approximately 80% of their daily intake. Timothy hay is an excellent choice for adult rabbits. Pellets should be limited to about 1/4 cup per 6 pounds of body weight per day. A variety of fresh greens should be offered daily, focusing on leafy greens and avoiding sugary fruits and vegetables.

Ensure fresh water is always available. Monitor your rabbit’s weight and adjust their food intake as needed to maintain a healthy body condition. Regular exercise is also crucial for maintaining a healthy weight and preventing obesity-related health problems. Annual veterinary check-ups are essential for monitoring their overall health and detecting any potential issues early on.

• ✔ Provide unlimited access to high-quality hay (80% of diet).
• ✔ Limit pellets to 1/4 cup per 6 pounds of body weight per day.
• ✔ Offer a variety of fresh greens daily.
• ✔ Ensure fresh water is always available.
• ✔ Encourage regular exercise.
• ✔ Schedule annual veterinary check-ups.

🐰 Senior Rabbits (5+ Years)

As rabbits age, their dietary needs may change. Some senior rabbits may experience dental problems, making it difficult for them to chew hay effectively. If this occurs, consider offering softer hay varieties, such as orchard grass or oat hay. You can also chop the hay into smaller pieces to make it easier to consume. Monitor their weight closely, as some senior rabbits may lose weight due to reduced appetite or underlying health conditions.

If your senior rabbit is losing weight, consult with your veterinarian to rule out any medical issues. They may recommend increasing their pellet intake or offering supplemental foods to help them maintain a healthy weight. Provide fresh greens daily, ensuring they are easily digestible. Regular veterinary check-ups are even more critical for senior rabbits to monitor their overall health and detect any age-related problems early on. Adjustments to their diet may be necessary based on their individual needs and health status.

• ✔ Offer softer hay varieties if dental problems exist.
• ✔ Chop hay into smaller pieces if needed.
• ✔ Monitor weight closely and consult a veterinarian for weight loss.
• ✔ Consider increasing pellet intake or offering supplemental foods if needed.
• ✔ Provide easily digestible fresh greens daily.
• ✔ Schedule more frequent veterinary check-ups.