Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Admin
Considering how tasty blueberries are, bunny owners may wonder whether the fruit is edible for their pets. Can bunnies eat blueberries? Does the fruit have nutritional value for rabbits? If the answer is yes to both questions, what quantity should you feed your rabbits? This article answers all three questions by delving deep into the top. Keep reading…
Can bunnies eat blueberries?
The short answer is yes; rabbits that are 12 weeks or older can eat fresh ripe blueberries. However, just like any other fruit, you need to feed them sparingly and on occasion. The recommended blueberries quantity to feed your rabbits is one or two pieces per week. Other than the fruit’s flesh, other edible parts include the seeds, leaves, and stems of the blueberry plant.
Introducing blueberries to your rabbit’s diet
When introducing blueberries, the rule of thumb is to introduce the fruit gradually to your rabbit’s diet. We recommend serving them with half a piece. Before that, rinse the berry to remove any pesticide residue that may lead to your rabbit having stomach aches.
When it comes to serving the fruit, cut the berry into half and serve your bunny. Wait for 24 hours and be on the lookout for any signs of digestive distress or soft bowel movement.
24 hours after eating half the blueberry piece, if your bunny has diarrhea, soft poop or they’re showing signs of stomach discomfort, discontinue serving them blueberries. On the other hand, if there are no negative reactions after introducing the blueberry, serve them another piece of berry for the week. You can also feed them the leaves and stems sparingly as well. Remember that fruits, including blueberries, need to be occasional treats that substitute a rabbit’s main hay diet.
The nutritional value blueberries provide rabbits
As mentioned earlier, blueberries are an occasional treat that substitutes a rabbit’s main diet that high in fiber, and low in sugar and fat. However, the fruit offers nutritional value for your bunny. The fruit contains vitamin A which helps improve a rabbit’s vision and skin health. On top of that, the vitamin also promotes the proper functionality of a rabbit’s heart and lungs. The fruit also contains vitamin K which helps reduce the risk of blood clots by improving the blood flow in a bunny’s body.
Blueberries are made up of around 84% water content which helps with hydration as well as bowel movement improvement. This particular fruit also contains essential antioxidants and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and manganese, all playing a key role in the proper functionality of a rabbit’s vital organs.
Risks of feeding rabbit’s excessive blueberries
Feeding your rabbits excessive blueberries may cause obesity, dental, and stomach issues. This is mainly due to the high sugar content the fruit contains. On top of that, the fruit also contains vitamin C which may cause kidney damage when absorbed into the rabbit’s body excessively. Alternatively, rather than feeding your rabbit the fruit in excess, we recommend the leaves and stalks which are low on sugar and carbs.
Conclusion
Can bunnies eat blueberries? Most definitely, nonetheless, feed them sparingly and on occasion. Always bear in mind that their primary diet should consist of hay, substituted by pellets, vegetables, and fruits as treats.
