Rabbits, or bunnies as many fondly call them, are gentle and curious animals with a surprisingly complex diet. Whether they live in the wild or as cherished pets at home, their food choices directly impact their health, energy, and longevity. Many people assume that bunnies eat nothing more than carrots and lettuce, but in truth, their diet is much more diverse and carefully balanced.
Wild bunnies survive on a wide range of grasses, herbs, and leafy greens, while domestic rabbits benefit from a mix of hay, vegetables, fruits, and fortified pellets. Each food group plays a unique role in maintaining their digestion, dental health, and energy levels. Knowing exactly what bunnies eat helps you ensure they thrive—whether hopping freely outdoors or living safely indoors as companions.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore 20 favorite foods bunnies love to eat daily, including natural forages, vegetables, fruits, and herbs. You’ll also learn feeding tips, dietary balance, and how to avoid harmful foods that could upset their sensitive digestive systems.
Understanding the Bunny Diet
Bunnies are strict herbivores, meaning they only eat plant-based foods. Their digestive system is designed for continuous grazing—breaking down fibrous plant material through fermentation in their hindgut. Fiber is vital; it keeps their digestion moving and prevents blockages that can be life-threatening.
In the wild, rabbits graze for up to eight hours a day, consuming small amounts continuously. Pet rabbits mimic this natural behavior when given constant access to hay and fresh greens. Because their teeth grow throughout life, chewing fibrous plants also helps naturally file them down, preventing overgrowth.
A balanced rabbit diet typically includes:
- Hay (about 80% of total intake)
- Fresh vegetables and greens (10–15%)
- Pellets (5–10%)
- Occasional fruit treats (under 5%)
Now, let’s dive into the 20 favorite foods bunnies enjoy daily, starting with the essentials.
20 Favorite Foods Bunnies Enjoy Daily
1. Timothy Hay
Timothy hay is the absolute cornerstone of a rabbit’s diet and should make up around 80% of what they eat daily. This hay is high in long-strand fiber, which is essential for keeping a rabbit’s digestive system functioning smoothly. The coarse texture helps push food through the intestines and prevents dangerous blockages that can cause GI stasis.
Rabbits also depend on timothy hay to maintain dental health, as continuous chewing naturally files down their ever-growing teeth. When choosing hay, look for clean, green strands with a pleasant grassy aroma—avoid hay that looks dusty, brown, or moldy. Provide unlimited access to fresh hay every day, replacing it regularly to encourage grazing and keep it appetizing.
2. Orchard Grass Hay
Orchard grass hay is softer and more fragrant than timothy hay, making it perfect for rabbits who prefer a sweeter aroma and smoother texture. It’s slightly higher in protein and lower in fiber than timothy, but it still supports healthy digestion. This hay also has a natural sweetness that appeals to selective eaters, making it a great option to diversify their daily menu.
Rabbit owners often mix orchard hay with timothy to stimulate appetite and prevent boredom. The combination of two textures and scents enhances foraging behavior, mimicking how wild rabbits naturally graze across different grass types.
3. Meadow Hay
Meadow hay is a delightful mix of grasses, herbs, and wildflowers, offering variety and enrichment in every mouthful. Because it’s grown in open meadows, its content changes slightly with each harvest—something that makes it interesting for rabbits to explore.
This hay provides a diverse range of nutrients and plant fibers, promoting balanced gut flora and better digestion. Its varied texture also satisfies a rabbit’s instinct to chew and forage. You can offer meadow hay alongside timothy or orchard grass to give your bunny a sensory experience similar to grazing in nature.
4. Alfalfa Hay (for Young Bunnies)
Alfalfa hay stands out from grass-based hays because it’s a legume hay, meaning it’s naturally rich in protein, calcium, and energy. It’s perfect for baby rabbits under six months, nursing mothers, or rabbits recovering from illness who need an extra nutritional boost.
However, for healthy adult rabbits, alfalfa should be fed sparingly. Its high calcium content can lead to bladder sludge or urinary stones if consumed too often. You can mix small amounts of alfalfa with other hays as an occasional treat—it adds flavor and texture diversity without overwhelming their diet.
5. Romaine Lettuce
Romaine lettuce is a nutrient-rich, water-packed green that rabbits can enjoy daily in moderate amounts. It’s full of vitamins A and K, supports hydration, and adds crunch to your bunny’s salad mix. Unlike iceberg lettuce, which contains mostly water and little nutrition, romaine helps keep the digestive system active while providing variety in texture and flavor.
Serve fresh, crisp leaves that have been washed thoroughly to remove dirt or pesticide residue. Combine romaine with other greens like parsley, basil, and dandelion for a balanced meal. Be mindful not to overfeed lettuce alone, as excessive amounts can cause mild digestive upset.
6. Kale
Kale is one of the most nutrient-dense vegetables you can feed your rabbit. Packed with vitamins A, C, and calcium, it supports strong bones, vision, and immune function. The firm, leafy texture also encourages natural chewing that promotes dental wear.
Despite its benefits, kale should be given in moderation due to its calcium and oxalate content, which can contribute to urinary problems if overfed. Offering kale a few times per week as part of a varied salad is best. Mix it with lighter greens like romaine or cilantro to create a nutrient-rich, safe blend.
7. Spinach
Spinach is another leafy green that many bunnies find irresistible. It’s rich in iron, folate, and antioxidants that promote cell health and vitality. Its dark, tender leaves provide hydration and help satisfy your rabbit’s craving for fresh greens.
However, spinach contains oxalic acid, which can interfere with calcium absorption if fed in excess. For this reason, spinach should only appear on the menu two or three times a week. Always choose young, fresh spinach leaves, as mature leaves contain higher oxalate levels.
8. Carrot Tops
Carrot tops are a superfood for rabbits, often overlooked in favor of the sugary orange root. These leafy greens are loaded with fiber, vitamins A and K, and trace minerals that support healthy digestion and liver function.
Unlike carrots, which should be given only as occasional treats due to their high sugar content, carrot tops can be offered more regularly. Wash them thoroughly to remove dirt or pesticides and mix them with other greens like parsley and kale for a flavorful and balanced salad.
9. Dandelion Greens
Wild rabbits instinctively seek out dandelion greens, and domestic bunnies love them too. These greens are full of essential nutrients like vitamin A, calcium, and potassium, and they act as a natural detoxifier. They also help regulate hydration, keeping your rabbit’s urinary system in top condition.
When harvesting dandelions from your yard, ensure they come from areas free of chemicals, pollution, or pet waste. You can also buy organic dandelion greens from farmers’ markets. Offering a few leaves daily adds variety while enhancing overall vitality.
10. Clover
Clover—both the leaves and blossoms—is a traditional favorite in the rabbit world. It provides fiber, protein, and natural plant compounds that aid digestion and energy production. The mild sweetness of clover makes it especially appealing to picky eaters.
Because it’s richer in protein than grass hay, clover should be given in moderation to prevent gas or bloating. Mixing it with timothy or meadow hay helps balance the nutritional profile while keeping your bunny’s meals exciting and healthy.
11. Parsley
Parsley is one of the most aromatic and nutrient-rich herbs that bunnies adore. It’s packed with vitamin C, folate, iron, and calcium, all of which support overall health and boost the immune system. Its fresh scent and texture encourage natural chewing habits that promote dental wear.
Flat-leaf parsley tends to be softer and more palatable than curly parsley, which can be a bit tougher. You can serve small handfuls of fresh parsley daily as part of a balanced salad mix. Avoid overfeeding to prevent excess calcium intake—moderation is key for maintaining urinary health.
12. Cilantro (Coriander)
Cilantro, also known as coriander leaves, adds a refreshing and fragrant twist to a rabbit’s diet. It contains antioxidants that help cleanse the body and aid digestion, keeping your bunny’s gut in balance. Many rabbits enjoy its light, citrus-like flavor, making it an excellent option for variety.
Add cilantro to your rabbit’s daily rotation of greens a few times a week. Always wash it thoroughly to remove any pesticide residue. Its scent can also stimulate appetite in rabbits that are hesitant to try new foods.
13. Basil
Basil is a flavorful herb that not only enriches your rabbit’s meals but also provides valuable health benefits. It contains antioxidants, vitamin K, and anti-inflammatory properties that can support the immune system. The mild peppery flavor keeps bunnies interested in their greens.
Offer basil two to three times a week, mixing it with parsley, dill, or mint for variety. Always choose fresh leaves rather than dried, and remove any wilted stems before feeding. Basil helps stimulate appetite and makes mealtime more enjoyable.
14. Mint
Mint leaves are a natural favorite among rabbits because of their cool aroma and taste. They can soothe digestion, reduce gas, and refresh your bunny’s breath. The scent of mint also encourages foraging, especially for rabbits that are picky eaters.
Feed mint sparingly—just a few leaves at a time—since its strong flavor can overpower other greens. Peppermint and spearmint varieties are both safe, though wild mint should only be offered if you are sure it’s free from contaminants.
15. Celery
Celery offers crunch, hydration, and valuable fiber that promotes healthy digestion. The stalks are especially enjoyable for rabbits who like a crisp texture. However, because celery strings can be long and fibrous, always chop the stalks into short pieces to prevent choking.
Both the leaves and stems are safe to eat, providing vitamins A, C, and K. Feeding celery in moderation helps maintain hydration and encourages natural chewing habits that support dental health.
16. Bell Peppers
Colorful bell peppers—especially red, orange, and yellow—are packed with vitamin C and antioxidants. Their sweetness and crunch make them a delightful treat for rabbits while contributing to immune support.
Before serving, remove the seeds and inner membranes, as they can be tough to digest. Offer a few thin slices two to three times a week. Green bell peppers are slightly more bitter, but most rabbits enjoy the taste once they’re accustomed to it.
17. Broccoli Leaves and Stems
Rabbits love the leaves and stems of broccoli, which are both safe and nutritious when given in moderation. These parts contain calcium, vitamin C, and dietary fiber that aid digestion and strengthen bones.
Avoid giving too much broccoli floret, as it can cause gas in some rabbits. Instead, focus on the leafy greens and stems, pairing them with hay to balance fiber intake. Introduce broccoli gradually to see how your rabbit’s digestive system responds.
18. Strawberries
Strawberries are among the sweetest treats you can safely give your bunny. They are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants but should be served sparingly due to their natural sugar content. Rabbits often love both the fruit and the leafy tops.
Cut one small strawberry into bite-sized pieces and offer it occasionally as a special reward. Avoid feeding dried or processed strawberries, which contain concentrated sugars that may disrupt digestion.
19. Apples (Without Seeds)
Apples are a favorite fruit snack for many rabbits, providing natural sweetness along with vitamin A and fiber. However, apple seeds contain small amounts of cyanide and must always be removed before feeding.
Slice the apple thinly and offer one or two small pieces as an occasional treat—no more than once or twice a week. Mixing apple slices with hay or greens can encourage shy rabbits to eat more enthusiastically.
20. Bananas
Bananas are an irresistible energy boost for rabbits, thanks to their soft texture and natural sugars. They are excellent for bonding moments or training rewards, but only in tiny portions because of their high carbohydrate content.
Feed a small slice once a week, no larger than a thumb-sized piece. Overfeeding bananas can lead to obesity or digestive upset. When used sparingly, though, bananas are one of the most enjoyable treats a bunny can have, ending their day on a sweet note.
Seasonal Eating Habits of Bunnies
Wild rabbits adapt their diets based on seasonal availability:
- Spring and summer: fresh greens, herbs, and tender shoots dominate.
- Fall: roots, bark, and dried grass are added to prepare for colder months.
- Winter: fibrous bark, hay, and twigs become vital as vegetation declines.
Pet rabbits should follow similar dietary patterns with appropriate substitutes—fresh greens during warm months and high-quality hay through all seasons.
Foods to Avoid Feeding Bunnies
While rabbits love exploring different flavors, not all plants are safe for them. Avoid feeding:
- Iceberg lettuce (contains lactucarium which can cause diarrhea)
- Onions and garlic (toxic to rabbits)
- Potatoes, beans, and peas (too starchy)
- Chocolate, sweets, or processed human food (dangerous for digestion)
- Seeds and pits from fruits (contain cyanide compounds)
Always introduce new foods slowly, observing your bunny for any digestive discomfort or changes in stool consistency.
Feeding Tips for Healthy Rabbits
- Provide unlimited hay — this is the key to dental and digestive health.
- Rotate greens weekly to ensure variety and balanced nutrition.
- Introduce new foods gradually to avoid digestive upset.
- Ensure constant access to fresh water, preferably in a clean bowl.
- Feed fruits sparingly — only as occasional treats.
- Avoid overfeeding pellets; they should complement, not replace, hay and greens.
Following these principles will help your bunny maintain a healthy weight, shiny coat, and strong teeth.
FAQs About Bunny Diets
Do bunnies really eat carrots every day?
No, carrots are high in sugar and should be treated as an occasional snack, not a daily staple.
Can bunnies eat grass from the yard?
Yes, but only if it’s free from pesticides, fertilizers, and animal waste. Fresh, untreated grass is excellent for them.
How often should I feed vegetables?
Provide a daily variety of fresh greens—about one packed cup per 2 pounds of your rabbit’s body weight.
Do bunnies need salt or mineral blocks?
Usually, no. A balanced diet with quality hay and greens provides all essential nutrients.
Can rabbits eat dried fruit?
Only in very small portions. Dried fruits contain concentrated sugars that can quickly upset their stomach.
Conclusion
Rabbits thrive on a rich variety of plant-based foods that keep their bodies healthy and their minds stimulated. From fiber-packed hay to vibrant greens and occasional sweet fruits, the diversity in their diet mirrors their natural foraging instincts.
Understanding what bunnies eat helps ensure long-term health, happiness, and balanced nutrition. Whether you care for a single house rabbit or manage a group outdoors, offering these 20 favorite foods—in the right proportions—will help them stay active, curious, and full of life every day.
