How to Feed Tame Rabbits

Pet rabbits should be fed a specific diet, as it promotes good health and works with the rabbit's sensitive digestive system. Rabbits also need lots of water for their systems to work properly, so keep a bowl of fresh water in your rabbit's cage at all times. The Champaign County Humane Society reports that "water containers should be washed and refilled daily to prevent bacterial contamination that could make your bunny sick."

Things You'll Need

  • Timothy hay or other grass hay
  • Rabbit pellets
  • Water bowl or water bottle
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Instructions

    • 1

      Lay Timothy hay or other grass hay in your rabbit's feeding trough. Use hay that has long and loose strands, rather than cubed hay. Hay promotes digestion.

    • 2

      Feed your bunny at least three different types of fresh, leafy green foods every day. A rabbit needs a minimum of 1 cup of fresh foods for every 5 pounds of body weight. Good choices include romaine lettuce (not iceberg or lettuce that has a light green color), collard greens, kale, endive, parsley, Swiss chard, escarole, beet tops, dandelion greens and flowers (make sure pesticides have not been sprayed on them), broccoli, carrots and carrot tops, pea pods, basil, clover, spinach, green peppers, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, raspberry leaves, bok choy, peppermint leaves, and radicchio.

    • 3

      Rabbits that are older than eight months need rabbit pellets with at least 18 percent fiber. Pour the pellets in a bowl. Here is a measurement guide from the Champaign Humane Society:

      1/8 cup every day for a 2- to 4-lb. rabbit

      1/4 cup every day for a 5- to 7-lb. rabbit

      1/2 cup every day for a 8- to 10-lb. rabbit

      3/4 cup every day for a 11- to 15-lb. rabbit