Can Rabbits Eat Celery?

Being a rabbit owner for over 10 years, I have learned a lot about what rabbits can and can’t eat. One of the many questions one asks is, can rabbits eat celery?

Well, in short, yes – they can. But there is more you need to know before giving it to them. Let’s hop into the details!

Is Celery Safe for Rabbits?

It is safe for rabbits to eat celery since it is low in calories and fibrous. However, like adopting any new food, the introduction of celery into the rabbit’s diet should be done slowly and in small quantities.

Nutritional Value of Celery to Rabbits

Nutritionally, there is a lot to gain by feeding our bunny celery:

• Fiber: Fiber that keeps the digestive system running smoothly.
• Vitamins: It contains Vitamin A, K, and traces of B vitamins.
• Minerals: Provides potassium, calcium, and magnesium
• Water content: It has high water content; therefore, this will help keep the rabbit well hydrated.

How Much Celery Can Rabbits Eat?

While celery is quite good for rabbits, large intakes are not recommended. In a way, think of it more as a special treat rather than a main food.

A good rule of thumb would be to give them a small piece, about 2-3 inches long, once or twice a week.

Keep in mind that hay should be the main component in a rabbit’s diet, making up about 80%. Pellets should constitute the rest, along with fresh veggies, with treats like celery being given in very small amounts.

How to Feed Celery to Your Rabbit

There are some considerations you need to know before giving your rabbit celery. For instance:

Make sure to clean it well: There could be pesticides or dirt

Chop it up into small bits: There’s a risk of choking otherwise

Leave on the leaves: Celery leaves are safe, even healthy for rabbits

Remove the strings: The stringy parts can be hard to digest

Possible Dangers of Feeding Celery to Rabbits

While celery is by and large safe, there are a few bits to be wary of:

• Gas and Bloating: Too much of it can lead to digestive problems.
• High water content: Excessive amounts will cause diarrheas
• Choking hazard: Always find or cut into bite-sized pieces
• Pesticides: Buy organic where possible, always rinse well

Introducing Celery to a Rabbit’s Diet

When giving celery to my rabbit Mango for the very first time, I became very cautious and introduced it gradually. Here is how you can, too:

• Start giving him a very small piece, about your fingernail size.
• Monitor for any signs of upstaging for 24 hours.
• If there are no problems, build the amount over the weeks.
• Cease from feeding celery and consult with a vet if there is any adverse reaction.

Other Vegetables Your Rabbit Can Eat

Celery is not the only vegetables your rabbit can consume. Other vegetables which your rabbit can eat include the following:

• Carrot tops (in small amounts)
• Romaine lettuce
• Bell peppers
• Cucumber
• Basil and parsley

Variety is the spice of life for a rabbit’s diet. Mix it up, keeping your bunny happy and healthy!

My Experience with Feeding Celery to Rabbits

I have had loads of experience getting my rabbits to eat celery. Mango, my first rabbit, loves celery leaves.

My mini-lops, Tango and Rupa, just go mad for those crunchy stalks. Isn’t it funny how each rabbit has its own preferences?

I remember when I first brought Mango home, I didn’t know a whole lot about rabbit diets. But after tons of research and experience, you learn that the vital element is moderation.

Now, celery is in the rotation of regular treats for my rabbits, along with other veggies.

Final Thought

Celery can be a pleasurable snack for rabbits if given in moderation. As with any dietary modification for your rabbit, always check with your vet if you have any reservations.

Remember, a happy rabbit is a healthy rabbit!