This question is often asked by individuals planning to purchase a rabbit as a pet. Many who desire to add a sweet pet to their home aren’t always clear on what their diet should consist of.
Yes, rabbits can eat apples, but there is more to their diet! House Rabbit Society, a group of rabbit experts, says that rabbits have a basic diet. Their diet consists mainly of pellets, specific types of hay, and fresh veggies.
Asking questions and doing a little research will get you the answers you need for answering the question “can bunnies eat apples?”
What Species of Apples are Safe for Bunnies and Rabbits?
Are you wondering can bunnies eat apples? While there is a wide variety to choose from, the best apples recommended by rabbit experts include:
- Granny Smith
- Gala
- Red Delicious
- Honeycrisp
Specific Tips on Apples for Bunnies and Rabbits
While bunnies and rabbits can have apples as an occasional treat, it should be nothing more than that. Apples are high in fiber, but they are also high in natural sugars.
You should also make certain that all seeds and stems have been removed. The skin of an apple is quite healthy and edible for humans and rabbits.
Feeding your bunny a slice of apple can be a welcome treat for them, but only once a week at best. You should research reputable breeders of rabbits in your area because they know to answer these questions.
Are There Specific Apples to Avoid? can rabbits eat apples?
Apples that your local grocer carries should be fine to feed your pet rabbit. The primary key to purchasing any fruit or veggies for your rabbit is to wash them and prepare them with your rabbit in mind.
Preparation tip: Veterinarians suggest that you feed your rabbit only raw apples rather than cooked. Cooking apples can reduce the nutrients, and adding sugar can be hazardous to your rabbit’s health.
Rules for Bunnies or Baby Rabbits
While adult rabbits can consume a slice or two of apples each week, baby rabbits cannot eat them.
Their digestive system is not ready to consume and process apples. Once your bunny reaches the age of 12 weeks old, its digestive system has matured a bit.
When it comes to bunnies, it’s all about introducing new things slowly. Specifically, it would be very small pieces of apple to see how their digestive system handles processing it in this case.
More Rabbit Food
Check out more of our articles about what rabbits can and can’t eat. For example this one: Can My Rabbit Eat Cucumber?
Health Benefits of Feeding Your Rabbits Apples
Apples do have several health benefits for rabbits. The primary benefits of eating apples include:
- Antioxidants
- High in Fiber
- Potassium
- Calcium for teeth and bones
The natural sugars may give your rabbit a bit of energy, and this works well if they have been lethargic.
Are Apples Safe For Rabbits?
Overall, apples are great for helping rabbits maintain a healthy gut, but they should only be eaten a maximum of once per week.
Remember, your bunny should only have one slice and no more than two slices at the most. Reach out to your veterinarian or trusted rabbit expert before giving your rabbit anything new in their diet.
