Which plants should rabbits not eat?

Rabbits are curious creatures. They like to chew on things and eat various plants. In the wild, they learn from their elders which plants are safe to eat. However, at home, they don't have this advantage, so they often end up eating things they shouldn't. Some toxic plants, like ragwort, have a bitter taste, which we hope will deter rabbits from eating them. Other plants don't taste bad, so curious rabbits may eat them if they come across them.

It doesn't matter what breed your rabbit is, their diet should be based on hay, certain recommended fruits and vegetables, and special food. The idea that rabbits can eat any type of plant, fruit, or vegetable simply because they are herbivores is a misconception. Some of these vegetables are dangerous and harmful to rabbits and can poison them.

Harmful and Dangerous Household Plants for Rabbits There are very few houseplants that rabbits can safely eat. Therefore, it's best to work on the theory that all houseplants should be kept out of reach of your rabbit or pruned so they can't access them.

Harmful Garden Plants for Rabbits:

• Hyacinth (including Grape Hyacinth)

• Bluebells

• Crocuses

• Daffodils

• Tulips

• Azaleas

• Poppies

• Clematis

• Cyclamen

• Primrose

• Columbine (Aquilegia)

• Hellebore

• Comfrey

• Poppy

• Poppies

• Nightshade

• Rhododendron

• Laburnum

• Water Lilies

• Irises

• Lupine

• Rhubarb

• Ivy

• Periwinkle

• Holly

• Yew

Mower Grass Clippings should never be given to rabbits because the grass begins to ferment and poses serious health concerns for rabbits.

Harmful Forage Plants for Rabbits: If you like to forage for different foods for your rabbit, avoid the following plants:

• Hemlock

• Briony

• Poison Hemlock

• Ragwort

• St. John’s Wort

• Mistletoe

Other Plants that Should Not be Given to Rabbits:

• Aconite

• Celadine

• Corncockle

• Cowbane

• Parsley

• Garlic Chives and Wild Garlic

• Spurge

• Tree Lupine

• Plantain

How to Tell if Your Rabbit is Poisoned? Some common signs of poisoning in rabbits include:

• Your rabbit hasn’t eaten for more than 12 hours, especially if they haven’t eaten even dry hay.

• Your rabbit hasn’t had any urination or defecation for more than 12 hours.

• Your rabbit is lethargic, unresponsive, or in pain.

• Overgrowth of rabbit's teeth.

• Changes in feces or urine, such as being very watery or having an unusual smell.

• Muscle spasms or abnormal movement.

• Vomiting.

If you observe any of these signs in your rabbit, you should immediately consult a veterinarian. Acting quickly can save your rabbit’s life.

Beneficial Vegetables for Rabbits:

• Basil

• Bok choy (Chinese cabbage)

• Broccoli leaves (its stems and flowers can cause bloating in rabbits)

• Carrots (rich in calcium, should be given in moderation)

• Celery

• Cilantro

• Clover

• Collard greens (a type of cabbage with green leaves)

• Dandelion leaves

• Dill

• Kale (in moderation)

• Dark lettuce leaves (not iceberg lettuce or cabbage)

• Mint

• Mustard greens

• Parsley

• Watercress

Conclusion
The digestive system of rabbits is very sensitive, which is why it's important to keep in mind the list of foods you should not give to your pet rabbit. An improper diet can easily make them ill, cause serious problems, and put their health at risk.