Clarendon Street Veterinary Surgery’s Summer health advice for rabbit owners
May 21, 2021
Pottering in the garden nibbling fresh grass is rabbit heaven. Plus, it’s excellent for their digestive system and teeth. However, not everything that grows in your garden this summer will be safe for your rabbit to eat ..
Our nurse, Sarah Berry has pulled together a list of plant ‘do’s and don’ts’ to help keep your rabbit safe this summer.
Plants that could harm your rabbit this summer in Cambridgeshire:
- The most poisonous plants for rabbits include Azalea, Bittersweet, Buttercups, Daffodils, Deadly Nightshade, Figwort, Foxglove, Hemlock, Meadow Saffron, Poppies, and Ragwort.
- Other poisonous garden plants include Begonias, Chrysanthemums, Clematis, Dahlias, Delphinium, Hyacinth, Iris, Lily of the Valley, Lupins, Morning Glory, Primrose, Rhododendron, Sweet Peas (there is a rabbit-safe variety), and Tulips.
- Garden-grown human foods that rabbits shouldn’t eat include Apple Pips, Garlic, Onion, Potato Plants, Rhubarb (stems and leaves), and Tomato Plants.
- Most evergreen leaves are poisonous to rabbits and some lighter coloured lettuces (e.g. iceberg) can harm them too.
Potential signs your rabbit has eaten a poisonous plant include: abdominal tenderness, bleeding, breathing difficulties, depression, diarrhoea, loss of appetite, mouth irritation, pain, seizures, vomiting, weakness, and death. Call us straight away on (01223) 359021 if you are concerned.
If your rabbit likes to dig, Sarah recommends removing dormant bulbs and filling your flower beds with rabbit-safe plants.
Alternatively, how about a designated patch or digging container filled with plants & vegetables your rabbit can eat? For more rabbit enrichment tips, get in touch with our pet-loving team.
- Safe plants for rabbits include Chickweed, Clover, Daisies, Dandelion, Nasturtiums, Nettles, Roses, Pansies, Pot Marigolds, and Sunflowers.
- Safe garden vegetables for rabbits include Kale, Romaine Lettuce, Bok Choy, Carrot Tops (carrots themselves are high in sugar so give these sparingly), Basil, and Broccoli Greens.
Now you’re ready to spend a relaxed sunny afternoon in your garden with your rabbit!
For more rabbit care advice, book a consultation with one of our team.