The ideal diet for rabbits is high in fiber. They should get the majority of their fiber from high-quality grass hay and plenty of green, leafy vegetables. Most vegetables are suitable to add to your rabbit’s diet, but which ones are better than others? Celery is very high in fiber and other nutrients, but is it okay to give to your bunny?
Can You Feed Celery to Your Rabbit?
Yes, celery is a great veggie to give your bunny! It isn’t just high in fiber; it’s actually filled with a bunch of good stuff! It’s high in vitamin C, potassium, calcium, and B vitamins (B1, B2, and B6). Not many people know it’s so nutritious because it’s so bland in flavor. Aside from these nutrients, celery contains phytochemicals, compounds that have been shown to lower the risk of cancer and blood pressure. The jury is still out on whether these compounds have the same effect in rabbits, but these compounds do qualify celery as a “superfood”. Even if your bunny isn’t a fan, consider adding it to your own diet for a nutritional boost.
Feeding Celery to Rabbits
Bunnies eat all day long. They love to nibble on their food, and a slow intake of food all day is what keeps their herbivorous digestive tracts functioning properly. Since celery is so high in fiber, start your rabbit off with small amounts to avoid any digestive upset. You can increase the amount over the span of a couple of days if they aren’t showing any signs of discomfort (bloating, gas diarrhea). If they don’t seem to be tolerating it well, cut the amount way down and go more slowly with how much you give them.
When you give your bunny the celery, always cut it into one-inch sections. Those pesky fiber strands get stuck in the teeth, and it’s really hard to convince a rabbit to let you see the inside of their mouth!
Even if celery ends up being your rabbit’s favorite vegetable, it’s important to vary what vegetables they’re eating. Celery is an excellent addition to their diet, but it’s even better for them when it’s served with a variety of other green vegetables.
