What Is The Ideal Diet For A Pet Rabbit?

The cornerstone of a rabbit's daily diet should be grass, hay and lots of it.  Hay provides the essential
fiber that rabbits and all herbivores need for proper gastrointestinal function and to promote proper dental wear.  High quality grass hay should make up at least 75% of an adult rabbit's diet and should be offered in unlimited amounts.  A lower fiber, higher energy/protein legume hay such as alfalfa is ideal for young pregnant
and lactating pets.

Approximately 20% of a rabbit's diet should come from a measured amount of a complete and uniform fortified food.  One with a proper balance of fiber, carbohydrates, protein and essential micro nutrients such
as vitamins and minerals.  Rabbit owners should choose an age appropriate formula and avoid mixes which allow animals to feed selectively, leading to unbalanced nutritional intake.

Rabbits will additionally appreciate and benefit from small amounts of healthy treats and appropriate greens. Healthy treats made with hay, herbs and freeze-dried fruits and veggies, the higher the fiber and lower the protein carbohydrate level the better.  A small to moderate amount of appropriate greens are great addition to a rabbit's diet as well.  Some good options include romaine, bib and red/green leaf lettuces.

Finally, rabbits should always have unlimited access to clean fresh water from two difference sources, such
as a tip proof bowl and a sipper bottle.