Can Rabbits Eat Broccoli?

Rabbits are known to absolutely love many different kinds of vegetables because of their flavor but they can also provide them with many different health benefits. Broccoli is one of the most common vegetables in the world so many pet parents will be curious if they can give their pet rabbit broccoli. Today you will learn if rabbits can safely eat broccoli as well as the potential health benefit that this vegetable can provide to your rabbit.

can rabbits have broccoli

Let’s learn about rabbits eating broccoli!

Can Rabbits Eat Broccoli?

Yes, rabbits can eat broccoli and can actually see some health benefits from eating the occasional piece of broccoli. This type of vegetable is filled with many different vitamins and nutrients that can beneficial to your rabbits overall health.

It is important to only give your rabbit broccoli in moderation as it is filled with fiber and can give your rabbit an upset stomach or give them gas if they eat too much. For this reason it is recommended that you only give your rabbit a few small pieces of broccoli as a snack and you don’t overdo it.

Broccoli can provide essential vitamins and nutrients to your rabbits daily diet but it is recommended that you only give your bunny broccoli in moderation.

Potential Health Benefits of Broccoli For Rabbits

Broccoli is filled with many essential vitamins and nutrients that can be beneficial to the health of your rabbit when served in moderation. Broccoli is known to contain many different vitamins such as Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Vitamin K, and even Vitamin A.

The vitamins are known to help improve your rabbit’s immune system, heart health, and even cognitive function. Broccoli also contains nutrients and minerals such as folate, potassium, manganese, and iron.

These nutrients and vitamins can help to improve your rabbit’s overall health and improve their longevity. Rabbits can benefit for fruits and vegetables because it can help to give them additional nutrients that their daily food doesn’t give them.

Can Broccoli Be Dangerous For Pet Rabbits?

Pet parents should be cautious about giving their pet rabbit too much broccoli as it can cause them to suffer from an upset stomach or even diarrhea or vomiting in more serious cases. Broccoli can be difficult for some rabbits to digest in large amounts because of it’s fiber content as well as its texture.

For this reason, most veterinarians will recommend that you only give your rabbit broccoli in moderation as a snack. You should start slowly and shouldn’t give your rabbit too much broccoli or other vegetables until you know how they react to it.

How Much Broccoli Can Rabbits Have?

Rabbits should start with just a small piece of chopped up broccoli to see how they react to this vegetable. Since rabbits are known to have small stomaches and a sensitive digestive system it is recommended that you only give your rabbit a few small pieces of broccoli.

The size of your rabbit as well as their breed will impact how much broccoli you can safely feed them. It is recommended that air on the side of caution and only give them a few small piece of cut up broccoli.

How To Serve Broccoli To Your Pet Bunny

If you are thinking about giving your rabbit broccoli it is best to start with small pieces of chopped up broccoli to see how their stomach reacts. If you notice any signs of an upset stomach, gas or diarrhea then it is best to stop immediately.

If your rabbit is struggling from gas you will typically smell it but you may also hear a gurgling sound coming from their stomach as they digest this vegetable.

If you are looking to give your rabbit broccoli it is best to clean it thoroughly first to remove any dirt or potential pesticides that are on the veggie. You can either cook the broccoli, steam the broccoli or give your rabbit raw broccoli. All of these forms will typically be safe for your rabbit in moderation as long as they are ripe and cleaned.

Can Rabbits Eat Broccoli Stalks and Leaves?

Yes, rabbits can eat broccoli stalks as well as broccoli leaves but they should only be done so in moderation. The stalks or stems of broccoli can potentially cause gas to your rabbit and may be difficult for them to digest because of its size, toughness, and texture.

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Dr. Jacob Hawthorne, DVM

Dr. Jacob Hawthorne, DVM is a certified veterinarian who graduated from the University of California - Davis Veterinary School in 2012. He specializes in nutrition and veterinary medicine for companion animals such as dogs, cats, rabbits, and more. He has been featured in websites such as PetMD, Yahoo News, Hills Pet, Daily Paws, and more. Learn more about Dr. Jacob Hawthorne, DVM.