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What Rabbit Food Is Best To Buy?

We all want what is best for our animals, especially regarding health, nutrition, and mental stimulation. Some people wind up […]

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We all want what is best for our animals, especially regarding health, nutrition, and mental stimulation. Some people wind up looking for the best food for their animals. In this case, we will look at what food to buy for your rabbit.

Rabbits are herbivores and require a specific diet that does not include meat or a lot of starches and sugars. Because of this, you need to buy them food that their digestive systems can handle.

For example, giving your rabbit ferret food (similar to rabbit pellets) will hurt their bellies or cause worse things, like GI stasis. So, what are the best foods to buy for your rabbit? We have a quick list for you to review before examining the products further in detail below.

 

  • New Country Organics Rabbit Food Pellets
  • Small Pet Select Rabbit Food Pellets
  • Sherwood Pet Health Adult Rabbit Food
  • Oxbow Animal Health Garden Select Adult Rabbit Food
  • Kaytee Food from The Wild Natural Pet Rabbit Food
  • Small Pet Select 2nd Cutting Perfect Blend Timothy Hay
  • Oxbow Animal Health Oat Hay
  • Kaytee Wafer Cut All Natural Timothy Hay
  • Oxbow Animal Health Orchard Grass Hay

 

Before discussing each food listed above, some frequently asked questions will be at the end. This is essential information, especially if it is relevant to your current situation. So, without further ado, let us continue with the content!

 

What Should You Look For When Buying Rabbit Food?

 

Choosing the right rabbit food can be overwhelming, especially with the many options! However, since this is a guide for rabbit lovers, we have also decided to give you a rundown on what to look for before purchasing any old rabbit food!

 

1. Low Fat

 

The first thing to note is that rabbits do not need high-fat food. This is because it could lead to serious health issues, such as liver problems, digestive issues, and obesity.

However, some circumstances require a higher fat intake than others. For example, if your rabbit is lactating or pregnant, they might need more than a rabbit who is not. Still, the fat content would not be nearly as much as other animals’ diets.

Here is a quick rundown on what to expect when it comes to fat quantity:

 

  • Regular maintenance: 1.5 to 2%
  • Lactating (of a litter with 7 to 8): 2.5 to 3.5%
  • Pregnancy: 2 to 3%
  • Growth & finishing (up to 6 months): 2 to 4

 

2. No Nuts Or Seeds

 

Nuts are incredibly unhealthy for your rabbit because they are also high in fat, making them unsuitable. Also, nuts lack essential nutrients for your rabbit, such as fiber and nutrients. Lastly, if a rabbit has nuts, their digestive system will inevitably become messed up and cause gastrointestinal (GI) problems or diarrhea.

However, suppose you have a bird in the house that lives next to or close to your rabbit, and some seeds (or nuts if you are eating them) accidentally fall into your rabbit’s enclosure. In that case, ingesting a tiny amount will not cause serious harm, but it is best to avoid it if anything occurs. Another quick note is to make sure that you consult with a veterinarian right away if you sense they are not feeling well.

 

3. Various Amounts Of Hay

 

Hay should be the main ingredient to ensure your rabbit eats appropriately. Rabbits can have an endless supply of hay due to many reasons.

The first reason is that hay contains many essential nutrients and vitamins for your rabbits’ overall well-being, such as calcium, fiber, and protein. Fiber, in particular, ensures that your rabbit is going number two properly and does not cause a blockage in their intestinal organs.

In addition, hay provides a sense of natural behavior. Wild rabbits inevitably graze, so a domesticated rabbit will want to do the same because it is in its nature.

Another benefit to hay is that it helps wear down a rabbit’s teeth. This might seem scary to new bunny owners. Still, it is a great thing because a rabbit’s teeth are consistently growing, meaning they need to chew something regularly so that their teeth do not overgrow and become worse or cause dental problems in the future. Because of this, rabbits need access to hay 24/7.

 

4. Fresh Ingredients

 

Rabbits should have fresh ingredients to have. Although they need pellets and dry hay to provide the essential nutrients, rabbits also love to eat many fresh fruits and vegetables.

However, if you buy your food from the store, ensure that each fruit and vegetable given to your rabbit is fresh and washed thoroughly.

Here are some fruit and vegetable examples you can give your rabbit:

 

Fruits

 

  • Small pieces of bananas
  • Apples without the seed or core
  • Small lemon pieces
  • Pears (remove the core and seed)
  • Plumbs without the pit
  • Grapes (a few pieces at a time)
  • Berries (raspberries, blueberries, strawberries)

 

Vegetables

 

  • Basil
  • Carrot tops
  • Bok choy
  • Cabbage
  • Mint
  • Kale
  • Parsley
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Spinach

 

5. Moderate Protein

 

When we say protein, we usually think of meats and vegetables containing protein, like peas. Although rabbits eat peas, they essentially get most of their protein from hay, especially Alfalfa hay, which is perfect for growing rabbits (6 months old and below.) Other ways they obtain protein are through rabbit pellets and fresh vegetables.

 

5. Limited Starch And Sugars

 

Limiting the amount of sugar and starch your rabbit has is essential. For example, some foods rabbits should never have, like potatoes, are high in starch because they lack a lot of fiber and can be highly toxic to your rabbit. Another thing that high starch and sugar foods will do is cause obesity, digestive problems, dental issues, and much more.

 

What Is The Best Rabbit Food To Buy?

 

Now that we have gone over the basic principles of what to and not to look for in rabbit food, we will discuss the best food you can buy. These foods will go in order, from pellets to hay and treats.

Another thing to consider is that you can provide treats in other ways with fresh fruit and vegetables, but do so in moderation, as too much of this can cause health problems in the long run.

 

Pellets

 

Pellets are one of the most essential parts of your rabbit’s diet because they contain the nutrients they need to survive. Also, pellets will help your bunny’s digestive system remain on track and lessen the chances of causing a blockage. We recommend checking your rabbit’s weight to ensure you provide them with the right pellets daily.

new country organics rabbit food

1. New Country Organics Rabbit Food Pellets

 

New Country Organics is bringing things to a whole new level! These incredibly nutrient-dense pellets boost your rabbit’s diet while supporting growth, overall maintenance, and breeding (if that is something you plan to do with your bunnies.)

In addition, New Country Organics is only sourced from American organic grains, made in soy-free facilities, and certified as organic and non-GMO. You can also go with the peace of mind that there are no artificial dyes, leaving you with the real deal. Because of this, you can ensure you get the best deal possible!

small pet select rabbit food

2. Small Pet Select Rabbit Food Pellets

 

The next pellet food we will discuss is Small Pet Select. This food comes in sizes ranging from 2 pounds to 40 pounds! It is perfect for your rabbit, whether you need food to hold you over until your next payday or a lot to last you a long time.

Small Pet Select is happy to announce that it is one of the top rabbit food choices by local veterinarians and other rabbit owners nationwide.

This brand delivers fresh food and ensures good-quality ingredients, especially since it is made in small batches instead of large quantities. Lastly, the food is fortified with many vitamins and minerals, with Timothy hay as the main ingredient.

sherwood pet health rabbit food

3. Sherwood Pet Health Adult Rabbit Food

 

Sherwood Pet Health adult rabbit food is perfect for your rabbit as it contains no grains or soy but a large amount of Timothy hay with safflower meal, flax, and other supplements essential to its nutrition.

Sherwood pellets also contain natural ingredients, so you do not have to feed them anything synthetic or animal-sourced.

It has antioxidants and essential omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which help your rabbit’s brain, heart, and cell membrane to remain healthy. Lastly, many prebiotics help with immune and digestive health, ensuring your rabbit lives long.

garden select adult rabbit food

4. Oxbow Animal Health Garden Select Adult Rabbit Food

 

With Oxbow Animal Health Garden Select, you cannot go wrong! This brand provides a complete diet for your rabbit and is a good choice for picky eaters.

For pet parents who are careful in what they buy for their animals, you will be happy to know that Oxbow is keen on not putting any GMOs, soy, or wheat products in this food. Because of this, you will be glad to know they are a good brand you can trust.

kaytee rabbit food

5. Kaytee Food from The Wild Natural Pet Rabbit Food

 

The last pellet food we will discuss is from Kaytee. Its brand name is “From the Wild,” it contains no added sugars, fillers, or artificial preservatives.

This wholesome meal contains sun-cured Timothy grass, flax seeds, and other dehydrated vegetables. The main thing that some pet owners may not like is that this product includes soybeans and wheat middlings. However, there is a wide variety of ingredients that your rabbit will thoroughly enjoy!

 

Hay

 

Hay is essential to your rabbit’s diet for two reasons: dental and digestive health. Rabbits should have an endless supply of hay as it provides a sense of natural foraging and helps them consistently chew on something to keep those teeth trimmed down.

small pet select 2nd cutting timothy hay

1. Small Pet Select 2nd Cutting

 

This Timothy hay is delivered fresh and contains lovely, thick cutting pieces that suit your bunny’s needs. Also, many people love the scent of the hay, meaning that if they live in your room, you may never get tired of that sweet aroma!

In addition, this hay comes in multiple sizes, ranging from 12 ounces to 40 pounds, meaning you can buy some to check out or when you need some for your rabbit in a pinch. The hay is 100% all-natural, with no preservatives or additives.

oxbow animal health oat hay

2. Oxbow Animal Health Oat Hay

 

Oxbow oat hay is an excellent choice for something small and simple. This particular oat hay is easy to digest as it is fiber-rich. Its crunchy texture is perfect for many small animals.

Oxbow oat hay is hand-sorted and packed with extreme care. This company ensures no artificial flavors, colors, or preservatives in their hay to ensure your bunny gets the best food possible!

kaytee wafer cut timothy hay

3. Kaytee Wafer Cut All Natural Timothy Hay

 

Kaytee is a massive brand that makes different food types for small rodents and animals. It is no surprise that they are also on the list in the hay section.

This Timothy hay is perfect for your animals as it contains no artificial preservatives, flavors, or GMO ingredients. The hay is also specifically grown for small animals. This means it does not have any pesticides, and it is high in fiber to support digestive health.

oxbow orchard grass

4. Oxbow Animal Health Orchard Grass Hay

 

The last hay on our list is yet again from the Oxbow company, but this particular product is orchard hay. It is the perfect type of hay for digestive health and dental care. This hay is also hand-packed with care, containing no artificial flavors, preservatives, or binders. Lastly, Oxbow orchard grass is recommended by many veterinarians worldwide, so you cannot go wrong by getting it for your small fur baby!

 

Treats

 

Treats are an excellent alternative to your animal’s regular food because you can use them to teach them tricks or provide puzzles. For example, you can make a wonderful toy out of toilet paper rolls and stuff some Timothy hay or treats to offer your animal a special prize at the end of whatever they do. It also helps your animal not to get bored and is something to look forward to!

sofier timothy hay sticks

1. Sofier Timothy Hay Sticks

 

The first treat on our list is called Sofier Timothy hay sticks. These sticks come in 32 pieces and are just under $10. There are multiple different flavors that each one has, which is the following:

 

  • 17 Timothy hay sticks
  • 5 rose hay sticks
  • 5 myosotis hay sticks
  • 5 calendula sticks

 

These sticks are extremely healthy for your rabbit to enjoy. Plus, each stick is made of 100% natural material that does not contain hormones or pigments. Plus, because all the sticks are packed in tight and stiff, they meet the needs of your rabbit’s molars, giving them better enrichment.

kaytee timothy biscuits (carrots)

2. Kaytee Timothy Biscuits Baked Treats

 

Kaytee Timothy biscuits baked treats are for those who want an extremely affordable treat. It is perfect for bonding with your pet and helping tame your pet in the meantime. For example, if you want to litter train your rabbit, these treats are suitable. On top of this, these Kaytee biscuits contain quality ingredients with no artificial colors or flavors.

vita-licious essentials treat

3. Vita-Licious Essentials – Natural Herbal Treats

 

Vita-licious essentials are natural herb treats that contain multiple different types of herbs, including, but not limited to, calendula, chamomile, dandelions, elder flowers, and many more nutrient-dense herbs! Not only are you providing your rabbit with an extremely nutritious treat, but you are also giving them variety in their diet, which is very important.

higgins sunburst veggie stix

4. Higgins 3 Pack of Sunburst Veggie Stix

 

The last treat we will discuss today is the Higgins 3-pack of Sunburst veggie stix. This treat encourages foraging and contains high-fiber ingredients, which means it is easy to digest.

The Higgins stix is considered a gourmet natural treat and is very beneficial to small animals, mainly since it contains a sun-cured Alfalfa meal.

 

Is There A Special Type Of Food Dwarf Rabbits Need?

 

No, there is no particular special diet that a dwarf rabbit needs. However, we recommend that Netherland dwarf rabbits do their best when eating fresh ingredients like high-quality pellet rabbit food, fresh greens, vegetables, and hay.

 

What Is A Rabbit’s Favorite Food?

 

A rabbit’s favorite food is plant-based. Because a rabbit’s diet mainly consists of hay, they would enjoy eating a nice treat like basil, cilantro, and parsley. However, what they can eat is not limited to just that. For a bit more information, see above.

 

Conclusion

 

To summarize, there are many wonderful foods for your rabbit to eat. However, the best kind to provide your pet are foods made without artificial preservatives, flavors, or added coloring. These are all important when it comes to your rabbit’s health. Overall, we hope this article has helped you in some way. We recommend checking out our other articles for more information if you have any more questions!

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