At Town N Country Veterinary Services in Hastings MN, we love caring for rabbits and other small pets. Rabbits are intelligent, sensitive, and social creatures—but their care requires just as much planning and precision as dogs or cats. One of the most important parts of rabbit care is proper feeding. A poor diet can lead to digestive problems, dental issues, and obesity. With the right knowledge and routine, you can help your bunny thrive physically and emotionally, keeping her ‘hoppy’ for years to come.

This guide from a Hastings, MN veterinarian covers the foundations of rabbit nutrition, how to create a healthy feeding routine, signs of obesity in rabbits, and practical, veterinarian-approved tips for maintaining a healthy weight.

Why Rabbit Nutrition Matters

Unlike dogs and cats, rabbits are hindgut fermenters. Their digestion depends on constant access to high-fiber food to keep their gastrointestinal system working and their teeth from overgrowing. Feeding the wrong foods—or even just too much of the right ones—can quickly lead to serious issues like GI stasis, tooth overgrowth, or excess fat accumulation.

Rabbits also don’t metabolize food like many other pets. They need specific types of fiber, limited sugar and starch, and careful portion control when it comes to pellets and treats. Good nutrition isn’t just important—it’s absolutely essential for their survival.

Learn more about rabbit care at the Pet MD website here.

How to Feed a Rabbit Properly

The bulk of your rabbit’s diet should come from high-fiber, low-calorie hay. This is what keeps their digestive tract moving and their teeth in good condition. A balanced daily diet includes:

• Unlimited grass hay such as Timothy, orchard grass, or oat hay
• Fresh greens and leafy vegetables like romaine, dandelion greens, cilantro, and parsley
• Controlled portions of high-quality pellets designed specifically for adult rabbits
• Limited fruits or starchy vegetables (like carrots or apples) as treats
• Fresh water at all times in a clean bowl or bottle

Avoid feeding:

• Alfalfa hay (for adult rabbits—it’s too high in calcium and protein)
• Commercial treat sticks or yogurt drops
• Human food or high-sugar snacks
• Iceberg lettuce (it has little nutritional value and can cause digestive upset)

We can help you tailor your rabbit’s portions and food choices based on her age, weight, and health. Ask your vet for more info on safe and unsafe foods.

Signs of Obesity in Rabbits

A rabbit’s healthy body should feel sleek and firm, with no large fat deposits. If you’re concerned about your bunny’s weight, look for these signs:

• Difficulty grooming or cleaning herself
• Inability to hop or move comfortably
• Lack of interest in play or interaction
• Fat deposits near the shoulders, tail, or groin
• A flattened appearance instead of a natural curve
• Changes in posture or pressure sores on feet
• Reduced appetite or changes in stool (a sign of slowed digestion)

Obesity in rabbits is very dangerous. It can lead to sore hocks, liver disease, respiratory trouble, urinary tract infections, and difficulty regulating temperature.

Healthy Rabbit Diet and Weight Tips

1. Make Hay the Main Course

Your rabbit should eat a pile of grass hay the size of her body every single day. Hay should be available at all times and changed out regularly so it stays fresh and appetizing.

2. Limit Pellets

Many commercial rabbit diets are overloaded with pellets, which are calorie-dense and often contain unnecessary sugars or grains. Adult rabbits should receive:

• A vet-approved portion of pellets per day
• Timothy-based pellets without added seeds or colored bits

Overfeeding pellets is one of the leading causes of rabbit weight gain.

3. Choose Greens Over Treats

Leafy greens offer important hydration, fiber, and nutrients without the calories of fruits or starchy vegetables. Rotate in 3–5 different types of safe greens daily to provide variety and enrichment. Ask your vet for specific information on safe and unsafe fruits and veggies.

4. Watch Treat Intake

While it’s tempting to spoil your bunny with dried fruit or commercial rabbit snacks, these often do more harm than good. Use small pieces of fresh fruit or herbs instead, and only on occasion.

Treats should never exceed 5% of the total diet.

5. Encourage Activity

Lack of exercise is another major contributor to weight gain. Give your rabbit:

• Several hours per day outside of her enclosure
• Tunnels, cardboard boxes, and hideaways for exploration
• Space to jump, run, and stretch
• Interactive toys or puzzle feeders that promote movement and curiosity

The more Floppy moves, the better her metabolism, digestion, and mental well-being.

6. Schedule Regular Weight Checks

We recommend weighing your rabbit weekly at home or scheduling routine weigh-ins at our veterinary clinic. Rapid weight changes—up or down—are both red flags that warrant investigation.

If weight loss is necessary, we’ll help you develop a slow and safe plan that doesn’t shock your rabbit’s system or disrupt her gut flora.

Vet Care for Overweight Rabbits

At Town N Country Veterinary Services in Hastings MN, we treat rabbits with the same personalized attention we offer dogs and cats. (We also care for Guinea pigs, hamsters, and other small animals.) If your rabbit is overweight, we’ll begin with a thorough physical exam and possibly bloodwork or dental X-rays. From there, we can help you:

• Identify underlying causes of weight gain
• Set safe weight loss goals
• Build a balanced diet plan
• Adjust feeding strategies for picky eaters
• Increase activity through safe play
• Monitor progress with regular checkups

Because rabbits can decline quickly, especially if they stop eating, we take a proactive approach to even minor changes in appetite or behavior. (Note: The Animal Humane Website has a very helpful article on bunny care here.)

FAQs About Rabbit Nutrition and Weight

How much should my rabbit eat each day?

Most of your rabbit’s intake should come from unlimited hay, followed by 1–2 cups of leafy greens, and a small portion of pellets. Treats should be occasional and limited.

Is my rabbit overweight or just fluffy?

Use your hands to feel under the fur. You should feel your rabbit’s spine and ribs with slight pressure. If you can’t, or you feel heavy fat deposits, your rabbit may be overweight.

Can I put my rabbit on a diet?

Yes, but it must be gradual and supervised. Sudden calorie restriction can cause serious GI complications. We’ll help you create a safe plan.

What’s the best way to encourage exercise?

Create a bunny-proofed play area, use tunnels or obstacle courses, and rotate toys frequently to keep things interesting.

Wellness for Every Bunny at Town N Country Veterinary Services in Hastings MN

Your rabbit’s health begins with what she eats and how she moves. By focusing on high-fiber, species-appropriate nutrition and encouraging daily exercise, you can help her avoid painful, preventable conditions. At Town N Country Veterinary Services in Hastings MN, we’re proud to care for rabbits and other pocket pets with compassion and expertise. Check our Service Page here to learn more about our services and the pets we care for.

Schedule your rabbit’s wellness visit today to assess her nutrition, weight, and long-term health goals.

This blog is for informational purposes only. Always consult your veterinarian before making changes to your rabbit’s diet or health plan.