Rabbit Diet Guide for Beginners

Just brought home a rabbit? Here’s the diet basics distilled to the essentials.

The core balance: mostly hay, measured pellets, daily greens

Think of it qualitatively rather than by strict numbers to start: hay should be the clear majority of what a rabbit eats, pellets a small daily measured portion, and fresh greens a modest daily addition once your rabbit is settled in.

Week-one feeding checklist

Unlimited fresh hay available from day one; a small measured pellet portion; introduce any new fresh greens gradually rather than all at once; fresh water checked and changed daily.

What NOT to feed

Muesli-style mixes with seeds and dried fruit, anything high in sugar or starch as a routine item, and any sudden, large diet change.

General small-pet care information, not veterinary advice — if your pet has a specific health condition, is a picky eater, or you are changing their diet, it is worth checking with an exotic-animal-savvy vet for guidance tailored to them.

FAQs

How soon can I introduce fresh greens to a new rabbit?

Gradually, once they’re settled — introduce one new type at a time and watch for any tummy upset before adding another.

What's the single most important thing to get right?

Unlimited fresh hay, available at all times — everything else builds on top of that foundation.

Shop the essentials

Browse rabbit food and hay, or read the full Rabbit Care Guide.