Last Updated on January 16, 2024 by Admin
Although we know that rabbits eat a wide range of herbs, the question most bunny owners wonder is can rabbits eat parsley? And if so, what nutritional value does the herb provide? In addition, how do you introduce this new diet, and what quantity should you feed your bunnies? This article answers all the common questions related to rabbits eating parsley. Keep reading to find out!
Can rabbits eat parsley?
Yes, rabbits can eat parsley. Whether it’s the leaves or stalks, every part of this leafy herb is edible raw. Just like any other herb, you need to moderately feed rabbits that are at least 3 months older. The recommended quantity to feed your rabbits is two parsley sprigs per serving once or twice per week. This should be alongside hay primarily, substituted with other herbs, vegetables, and pellets.
Introducing parsley to your rabbit’s diet
When it comes to introducing parsley to your rabbit’s diet, make sure that the herbs are always fresh. Additionally, wash the parsley leaves before serving your bunny. This reduces the likelihood of stomach issues from your rabbits ingesting any chemicals or pesticide residues, especially if the herbs are bought from a store.
When it comes to feeding your rabbit parsley for the first time, do so gradually. This is considering that bunnies have sensitive stomachs. For this reason, we recommend you start by serving your rabbit a single parsley sprig and waiting for 24 hours to see how their stomach reacts. If the bunny’s stomach reacts positively to their new parsley diet, increase their serving from a single sprig to two, twice per week. Lastly, if your rabbit shows signs of distress, gas, diarrhea, or has soft poop after ingesting the parsley diet, avoid feeding them the herb in the future.
The nutritional value parsley provides rabbits
Parsley are highly nutritious herb rich in essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, in addition to having low sugar levels. For instance, it contains vitamin A which is responsible for the improvement of a rabbit’s eye health and immune system. Parsley is also packed with vitamin C which acts as an antioxidant that boosts their immunity. Another vitamin the herb has is vitamin K which is great for bone and cardiovascular health.
Parsley also contains essential minerals like calcium, sodium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, and zinc. All these play a role in the strengthening of a rabbit’s teeth and bones, improving their respiratory health as well as contributing to their overall growth and development. Additionally, the herb also contains lutein, an antioxidant that helps in speeding up or repairing damaged skin, and also reduces inflammation.
Lastly, the other reason why parsley is good for rabbits is that it’s low in sugar. To be specific, a 100-gram serving contains 0.85 grams of sugar, therefore making it a healthy treat.
Risks of feeding rabbit’s excessive parsley
Although parsley provides nutritional value for your bunnies, excessive intake can have adverse effects on your rabbit’s health. One of the risks associated with feeding your rabbits excessive parsley is gastrointestinal issues. They may include bloating, stomachache, diarrhea, or gastrointestinal stasis.
The other problem associated with excessive parsley intake for rabbits is that it leads to the development of kidney or bladder issues. This is considering that the herb contains around 140 mg of calcium per 100 g, which accumulates in a rabbit’s urinary system when in excess. This often leads to the development of bladder or kidney stones.
A balanced diet that consists primarily of hay which makes around 85%, substituted with 10% greens mixed with herbs like parsley, and the remaining 5% comprising of fruits as treats is recommended.
