Feeding rabbits is not as simple as many people think and yet it shouldn't be an expensive exercise either. In this article I offer some tips that will give you information that will not only save you money but will ensure that your pet will live a long and healthy life.
I has to research the feed we were using and selling in my pet store after a rabbit breeder lost over 50 animals from poisoning. She was feeding her rabbits a horse grain which was considerably cheaper than any commercial rabbit feed on the market. We were using the same brand of feed and selling it to our customers. When I heard this news, I took it out of the shop immediately.
The manufacturers added a type of grain to the feed. This made no difference to the horses but it caused brain damage and eventual death to rabbits. They also added a disclaimer to the packaging that said the product wasn't to be used to feed any other type of animal and that they would not be held responsible if it harmed another animal.
As well, some rabbit products have molasses which can be harmful as rabbits can't digest sugars. This can cause them to die if put under anesthetic. I only mention these two instances to highlight the need for good quality feed. The product I changed to had Lucerne in it which is a type of green hay. It is full of vitamin C. To always ensure that they have access to it, I use Lucerne hay as bedding for my rabbits.
Oats, bran and wheat are also valuable components of rabbit feed. And guess what - it's not expensive. Don't waste your money with feeds that contain dried fruits or fancy packaging. Most of these things are gimmicks
Can rabbits eat apples. I used to breed a lot of rabbits and guinea pigs and I can't afford any food wastage. Shop around and find a feed that is inexpensive and highly nutritious.
Rabbits thrive on fresh vegetables and fruits. Too much, however, can give the diarrhea and can weaken their immune system. Don't think that you are saving money by getting scraps from your local green grocer particularly if the vegetables and fruits are decaying. It can end up costing you more in vet bills or heart ache when your animal becomes ill and eventually dies.
Give them moderate amounts of vegetables and fruits. Do not include lettuce or cabbage as they are too high in water and severe cause diarrhea and cabbage has toxins in it that will eventually poison your rabbit