Rabbits metabolize calcium different from other animals. In rabbits, calcium in their diet is absorbed whether they need it or not. The excess calcium is mainly secreted via the kidneys. While most animals excrete only 2% of their calcium intake through their kidneys ~ rabbits excrete 45-60% of the calcium they consume. If a rabbit eats a lot of calcium, much of it is excreted through the kidneys and will end up in the bladder.

It is, therefore, important to know the calcium content of the greens we feed our companion rabbits ~ so that a greater proportion of lower calcium foods is fed to help flush out the excess calcium.

There are some vegetables which should not be fed to rabbits. This article specifies which vegetables fall into this category and explains why.

Dana Krempels, Ph.D. states ~ “Fresh, moist greens are about as important as hay in maintaining a healthy intestine.”

This article contains a list of the specific greens and other vegetables which are healthy and safe to feed to companion rabbits.

Meadow: An often asked question is ~ “how much vegetables should my rabbit(s) have?” As you will see, there are varying opinions about this subject. This article incorporates the recommendations of the Colorado House Rabbit Society, San Diego House Rabbit Society, and Dana Krempels Ph.D.

Exactly how much vegetables (greens and others) you feed to any individual rabbit will depend upon the particular needs of each rabbit, how good he/she is about eating lots of hay, and any sensitivities to certain foods.

Article coming soon!