Won’t eat fresh fruits

[MichiganRabbits]

My Rabbit, Baylor, is just over a year old. I’ve been introducing new foods to him often, including fresh fruits. However, he hasn’t aten any of the fruits yet, not even banana. I’m thinking this is because maybe he doesn’t realize that it’s food? Any tips on getting him to try some?

[pinkiemarie]

He’s cute! To be honest with you another member and I are both dealing with rabbits with cecal dysbiosis that we both think was caused by banana and I would just avoid it. As far as small quantities of other fruits, keep trying and eventually he’ll probably give something a nibble!

[Bam]

My bun is not overly fond of banana, and tbh, it’s not a problem. Banana is very high in simple sugars, and rabbits do better without sugar. Fruit should always be given very sparingly, because sugar disrupts the microbial balance in the cecum, and can cause overgrowth of the “wrong” microbes. Berries are often a better choice than banana or grapes, because while still yummy,  the sugar content is a lot lower.

That said, buns often need to be presented with new food a few times before they venture a nibble. This goes for all new food, including new veg and new pellets and sometimes also new grass hay.

[Wick & Fable]

As long as it’s not a medical-related reason that needs to be addressed, I think it’s fine for a rabbit to be hesitant or avoidant of particular foods given they have a well-rounded diet without it. For example, one of my rabbits, Fable, is highly suspicious of any new food, so it is hard to get variety for her. She often overlooks food, but I’m not going to spend time forcing the matter if she has a good diet with the library of foods she will readily accept already.

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.

[Cinnamon Bun]

I’m that other member currently dealing with a bun with cecal dysbiosis… *sighs*

My bun was actually not fond of mint until she tried it a couple of times. She absolutely loves it now. Maybe just give Baylor some time to get used to it, and keep being patient with him. It’s really no big deal if he never likes it, since treats aren’t the majority of their diet anyway. You could give him other baked or dried treats instead. A while ago, I fed some mistreated rabbits in a pet store some banana, and they didn’t know what to do with it at first. I don’t think they’d ever tasted banana in their whole lives. Poor babies ♥

[Author]

Messages