The stereotype of the rabbit chomping down on carrots is as ingrained in the public conscious as the ostrich that buries its head in the sand or the lemming that jumps off a cliff. And there are many similarities between these beliefs. If you’re asking Can Rabbits Eat carrots then there is a good chance you will have an idea of what we’re talking about.
In either case, it’s important that you read on. Bunny owners everywhere need to take this information onboard for the wellbeing of their little furry friends. So, let’s get to it as we ask and answer: Can Rabbits Eat Carrots and Can Rabbits Eat Carrot Tops?
Can Rabbits Eat Carrots?
They can, but perhaps not to the extent that you might think. In reality you should limit consumption of sweet vegetables like this two once or twice a week, and never let them overindulge during any of those occasions.
If you give your rabbit a carrot is will demolish it. They absolutely love carrots and there are few things cuter in this world than a bunny chomping a carrot. However, contrary to what you might believe, they can not subsist entirely on carrots; they are not overly healthy for them; and they need to eat them in moderation.
Disney cartoons have a lot to answer for. It’s because of a lemmings “documentary” that we believe a ridiculous fallacy about those little creatures; and it’s because of Bugs Bunny that the image of the rabbit eating carrots is forever ingrained.
Many people believe that carrots should constitute a large part of a rabbit’s diet. They have this belief before they are rabbit owners themselves and they continue to believe it when they get rabbits. That’s when things get dangerous.
Dried carrots are also popular with rabbit owners. They can be found in treat mixes and chew sticks. These should be given as very occasional treats. They are tough and can give the bunny something for their teeth to work at. But they also lack many of the nutrients found in carrots, they have a higher concentration of sugar, and they have less water.
Can Rabbit’s Eat Carrot Tops?
Rabbits enjoy carrots as treats, but they are not their favorite foods. Not even close. One of the things that all rabbits love is carrot tops. These long, leaf stalks are often discarded by humans, but bunnies absolutely love them.
You won’t find them in regular bags of carrots. You need to buy organic and loose, as only then are you likely to find carrots with the heads still on. For the grocery store selling them, it’s purely ornamental and helps to make them look a little more organic. For the bunny owner, it’s a free rabbit treat. The stalks are a little healthier as they are packed with nutrients, but they should still be given in moderation. Give them a few stalks once a week if they are large and fully grown, but avoid giving them too much (or anything at all) if they are still small and young.