Rabbits and there herbs and Veggies.
Chicory
The green parts of the plant are a favorite treat to rabbits and increase the flow of bile in the digestive tract, thus acting acts as an appetite stimulant. Dried Chicory root contains inulin (prebiotic substance) which aids good bacteria in the gut.
Comfrey
Digestive aid for rabbits, used in cases of wool block and aids in healing. Feed in small portions
Warning: NOT to be fed in large amounts, can cause diarrhea. Contains high alkaloid levels
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Dandelion
Dandelions are extremely nutritious, containing vitamins A, B, C & D, they are also rich in iron and high in protein. The high levels of potasium make them a well balanced diuretic. It is claimed that it can improve coat quality as well as allowing rabbits to recover from moult quicker. Can be fed regularly in moderate portions.
Warning: NOT to be feed in excessive amounts, can cause diarrhea.
Do not feed fermenting or wilting plants these can cause bloat.
Echinacea
Grazed upon by many native animals in North America, the native indians felt it was a valuable herb to protect against colds and flu. Medical testing of Echinacea on rabbits for scientific purposes have shown that it increases the levels of properdin, this chemical is thought to aid in the defence of viral and bacterial infection.
Fennel
Feed to lactating does to increase milk production. Also said to aid digestion and stomach upsets.
Groundsel
Is a good source of mineral and is used in rabbits to stimulate moult. Feed sparingly.
Warning: NOT to be fed in large amounts, can cause diarrhea. Related species such as ‘Ragwort’ are TOXIC, so make sure you have the right species.
Lavender (Dwarf)
Lavender is an extremely useful herb for breeders. It is a uterine stimulant, and can be used to stimulate labour. When given to a late birthing doe, it helps to expel uterus contents, dead or alive. It can be used to bring on a natural abortion early on in pregnancy. Lavender is also a natural mild tranquilizer, it acts upon the heart to reduce blood pressure.
Warning: NOT to be fed in large amounts, can cause diarrhea.
Can bring about an abortion early into a pregnancy.
Mint
Mint is used to reduce milk production in does towards the end of weaning. Mint also relaxes muscles in the digestive tract, and stimulates bile. This help with indigestion, flatulence and colic. It is also said to be good for colds. Harvest before flowering.
Warning: NOT to be feed to pregnant does or to kittens. Do not feed to lactating doe while kittens are still weaning. Long term use will irritate mucous membranes.
The leaves of the Broccoli plant are the best part to feed to your rabbits. However the flowers (part we eat) and the stalk can still be used although they are not as nutrient rich for rabbits.
Cabbage
Cabbage is a good source of vitamins A, C & K as well as sulphur, silicon, calcium and chlorine. The darker leaves of the plant constitute a higher nutritional value. Feed only in moderation.
Warning: Only to be feed SPARINGLY, can cause diarrhea.
Bloating may occur if feed in excess.
Carrot
Carrots make an excellent occasional treat for your rabbits due to the high sugar content (this means your rabbit will love it). The green tops of the carrot are the most nutritional part of the plant. There are many different varieties of carrot, available in different sizes and colours; go out in search of these for something different for your rabbit and yourself.
Warning: Feed in moderation due to high sugar content.
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Celery
This is a tasty treat that your rabbits will love you for. It is also naturally rich in potassium. Both the leaves and the stalks can be feed to your rabbits. The leaves can also be dried and added to hay.
Warning: Only to be feed SPARINGLY, can cause diarrhea.
When drying make sure it is free from mould before feeding.
Chicory
The red and green varieties are the most nutritionally valuable for rabbits.
Cucumber
Cucumber is an excellent summer treat for your rabbits due to its high water content and low energy.
Warning: Only to be feed SPARINGLY, can cause diarrhea.
Do not feed the leaves as these are poisonous
Lettuce
Lettuce has a bad reputation as food for rabbits and not without reason, it can cause bloat. However lettuce does contains some very important vitamins and minerals such as folic acid, calcium, iron, chlorine, sulphur, bromine, potassium, and vitamin A. Due to the high water content it makes an excellent food during hotter weather. There are many different varieties of lettuce, and as a general rule the darker the green (or ever red/purple) the more nutritious it is.
Warning: Only to be feed SPARINGLY, can cause diarrhea.
Bloating may occur if feed in excess.
Warning: Feed in moderation.
Parsnip
Parsnip is not a huge favorite amongst the rabbits. It is however a good vegetable to feed your rabbits in combination with the leaves.
Warning: Feed in moderation.
Peas
Peas and Snow Peas, pods, leaves and all can be feed to your rabbit.
Warning: Only be feed SPARINGLY.
Warning: Only be feed SPARINGLY, can cause diarrhea. Feed in moderation due to high sugar content. Do not feed the leaves as these are poisonous