Can Rabbits Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Can Rabbits Have Brussel Sprouts?

Over the past few years, brussel sprouts have increased in popularity with humans. We throw them in salads and roast them with some other great veggies. A bit of dressing or vinegar and we just cannot get enough. With the rise in popularity, it is normal for more people to question if we can share these pops of flavor with our best furry friend.
 
 
 
 
 
Can you give your rabbit Brussel Sprouts?

Answer: Yes, but only in moderation. Brussel sprouts can be an excellent source of nutrients for your rabbit and are filled with fiber. However, they are also filled with substances that are likely to give your little guy gas. This can be painful and dangerous for your rabbit so proceed with caution.

When serving your pet brussel sprouts there are a few tips and tricks that can help make sure you are giving them the proper amount with the highest levels of nutrition. Continue to read this article to learn a bit more about how to keep your rabbits diet on track.

Health Benefits

Typically fruits and vegetables should only make up about 15% of a rabbits diet. The rest should be primarily hay and pellets. This helps keep their digestive system healthy while meeting their various other health needs. This 15% is very important and should include mainly leafy green veggies. These dark leafy green vegetables are typically packed with vitamin C & A. They are also filled with fiber, potentially one of the most important parts of a rabbits diet.

If you are debating on how much you should give your rabbit based on that 15%, a good rule of thumb is 1 cup per 1.8kg of body weight. Make sure that cup has mixed vegetables and not a whole bunch that are prone to give your rabbit gas. Remember, rabbits have very sensitive stomachs that can easily become upset or filled with painful gas.

Things to keep in mind

Limit your bunnies brussel sprout consumption to one or two sprouts per week. This can help regulate the gas and allow for other nutrients to be incorporated into their diet. If you are considering some other good treats for your pet, think about turnips , zucchini , and cherry tomatoes.

If you are looking to incorporate brussel sprouts into your pet’s diet, begin with offering them a small amount cut up. Watch them closely for the next few hours. If you notice any unusual behavior like their stomach is hard to the touch, they are curled in a ball or strange noises coming from their stomach, you should visit the vet immediately. They may have serious gas that can lead to even more serious consequences.

If your rabbit consumes the brussel sprouts without issue, that means it is probably ok to continue to share them with your pet. Although it is still best to only toss them a few once or twice a week and with a varied diet. Combining brussel sprouts with other veggies that contribute to gas, like broccoli, will only amplify the potential for gas to develop.

While I am sure your new roasted brussel sprouts recipe is simply delicious, it is best to feed them to your furry friend raw. When cooked, vegetables can lose some of that nutritional content. Since rabbits enjoy brussels sprouts raw – and maybe even cooked – it is best to stick to the way they would find them in the wild.

Before giving the raw brussel sprouts to your rabbit, be sure to wash them well. Commercial sprouts may have pesticides on them. Even if they are none commercial, it is still a good idea to give them a good rinse. Rinse, then cut one or two up into small bite size pieces for your rabbit to handle and enjoy. A large brussel sprout may be too overwhelming for your rabbit.

Final Thoughts

Every pet owner knows the desire to want to give your creature a treat to enjoy at the end of the day. However, we need to make sure we look at treats in a healthy and beneficial way due to their, oftentimes, sensitive bellies. A rabbits belly is particularly sensitive which is why it is not a good idea to feed your rabbit a brussel sprout salad. Although it is ok to toss them a couple every now and then as long as you know your rabbit is not prone to gas. If you notice your rabbit has developed gas, watch them closely and visit your vet if it does not get better within 4 hours.