Problems getting bun to eat leafy greens

[Sandy]

Hi everyone, My rabbits Milkshake and Pizza are now 3 months old and I’ve been trying different greens on the list from Rabbithouse Society. I have one rabbit that will eat Kale readily, Milkshake, but not the Turnips or Bokchoy I bought. Do i need to reduce their pettets? They are fed about 1/2 cup twice a day along with Timothy hay. I was thinking that may make them want the greens more. Thanks for your help.

[Ellie from The Netherlands]

Rabbits can be very choosy with their foods, and when you’re introducing something new they may refuse it 4 days in a row, and nibble it a bit on the 5th day. And don’t be surprised when it’ll be a new favourite on the 6th day I wouldn’t reduce pellets, but continue to feed them as adviced by the vet. Younger rabbits have a very sensitive digestive system.

I’ve recently tried to introduce witlof (Belgian endive, a popular veg here in the low countries), and Breintje wouldn’t touch it with a 10 foot pole. I kept offering a fresh new leaf everyday, and finally he tried some. Now it’s one of his daily favourites (and my wallet’s new favourite too ).

[Dasher]

Just keep offering it to your rabbit. Like Ellie said it may take some time before your rabbit decides they like it. My bunny acts scared of new veggies but then realizes she loves it after a few days. Just be careful not to introduce too many veggies at once as some bunnies are more sensitive and can’t handle certain veggies. Maybe you can try a fragrant herb like cilantro to tempt them.

[DanaNM]

Bok Choy and Turnip tops can be a bit of an acquired taste.

1/2 cup of pellets twice a day is quite a lot though! I know with young bunnies they should get unlimited for a while though… so talk to your vet about that.

Since boy choy, kale, and turnip are all in the cabbage family, I would try something from a different category. I would try cilantro, or romaine lettuce next. Cilantro is great for even the pickiest of bunnies. Try “slapping” it against your arm to release the aromatic compounds, it makes it smell very yummy to them. Dandelion greens, fennel, and carrot tops are also very popular with my two. And yes, if you offer it multiple days, it can take a while for them to try it.

Of course I agree with the others about introducing greens very slowly and gradually. No more than 1 new food per week, and start with only a little bit to make sure to not upset their tummies.

. . . The answers provided in this discussion are for general guideline purposes only. The information is not intended to diagnose or treat your pet. Seek the advice of your veterinarian or a qualified behaviorist.  

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