There is so much debate on whether to give your rabbit potatoes or not. But the majority agree it’s not ideal for them. Bunnies are herbivores, meaning they prefer plants over meat. But that doesn’t mean all plants are equal.
When you give the pet potatoes, it will gladly eat them, but it will cause issues later. Potatoes aren’t poisonous, but they harm your bunny’s stomach. The lack of ability to pass gas can be fatal if you don’t act fast. They also can’t digest cooked potatoes, so it’s best to stay away from them entirely.
You can give your rabbit plenty of alternatives that won’t harm them. You will see wild rabbits dig up potatoes and eat them, but that doesn’t mean you should feed them to your bun.
Are Potatoes Bad For Bunnies?
Potatoes are a rich source of calories and carbohydrates, but they are dangerous to your rabbit. It can cause GI stasis, constipation, or diarrhea. Potatoes don’t offer any nutritional benefits to rabbits; there is no point in giving them.
The bunny’s diet needs to be mostly fiber and limited fats and protein. Potatoes have a lot of starch that the pet’s digestive system can’t handle. Even small amounts can be detrimental.
When the answer to your question is no, avoid the food at all costs. You may be tempted to pass them a small slice because rabbits find potatoes tasty but resist the temptation. Domesticated rabbits have minimal instincts; they don’t know what is healthy and what is not.
What to Do If Rabbits Eat Potatoes?
A potato is not technically poisonous; if it eats a small amount, it won’t cause a lot of harm. However, if they overeat the potatoes, the dense starch will make them sick. Monitor the rabbit keenly, and if they exhibit any signs of discomfort, take them to the vet.
If you don’t do something fast, the digestive system can shut down. Ensure they can’t access the potatoes ever again. Old potatoes are even more dangerous because the spots that form on the potatoes are the beginning of stems and are highly toxic to rabbits.
Potato peels have fiber, vitamins, and nutrients. But for rabbits, the recommendation remains “no“. You shouldn’t give them potato peels either because they still contain high amounts of starch.
Can Rabbits Eat Sweet Potatoes?
Sweet potatoes are not toxic, but they are not recommended for rabbits. They aren’t the same as regular potatoes; they belong to different plant families. However, if your pet eats a small chunk, there isn’t any need for concern, but expect stomach upset.
The potatoes have a lot of sugar and starch, which are two things your bunny doesn’t need. Surprisingly your vet may recommend you feed the rabbit sweet potatoes. This mostly happens when your bunny has trouble gaining weight. But you still have to limit the amount so that the pet doesn’t suffer a stomach upset.
Health Dangers of Potatoes to Rabbits
Constipation and diarrhea are the immediate effects of eating potatoes. But if the rabbit keeps eating it regularly, it will gain weight. There is no nutritional benefit; your bunny will only suffer after eating them.
The potato leaves, flowers, and vines are poisonous. You shouldn’t let your bunny wander around the garden if potatoes are growing. They don’t know any better, and that’s why wild rabbits rarely live long; they eat poisonous food all the time and suffer the consequences.
Do You Know?
Are peaches an ok food to give your rabbit? Find out here: Can Rabbits Each Peaches?
Are Potatoes Safe For Rabbits? Can Rabbits Eat Potatoes?
Do not give your bunny potatoes, as you can clearly see they are not a healthy option. Your pet will find it tasty, but their digestive system can’t handle the dense starch. If they eat potatoes by accident, look out for GI stasis signs and call your vet.
Potatoes are nutritionally empty; your pet won’t be missing out on anything if you deny them. No matter how much your bunny begs you to throw them a piece of potato, don’t give in.
