What Herbs Can Rabbits Eat? Food Safety, Nutritional Facts & Preparation Guide

When it comes to feeding your rabbit, fresh greens can be a delightful supplement to their diet, offering not just nutritional benefits but also a chance for them to indulge in their natural foraging behavior. Among these greens, herbs are a favorite for many bunnies. They provide a rich blend of flavors, textures, and health benefits that can enhance your rabbit’s overall well-being.

The Importance of Choosing Safe Herbs

However, it’s essential to ensure that the herbs you’re offering are safe and suitable for rabbit consumption. Some herbs can be beneficial, while others may be harmful if consumed. To make it easier for you, we’ve curated a list of safe herbs that you can introduce to your rabbit’s diet. These herbs have been carefully researched and vetted to ensure your rabbit’s safety and enjoyment.

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Interested in diving deeper into each herb’s specifics? Click on the blue links to get more detailed information on each one, their benefits, and any serving suggestions. NOTE – we are still adding to the site so note all herbs have full information yet.

Feed responsibly, and watch your furry friend hop in delight!

Herbs Rabbits Can Eat

Alfalfa

Alfalfa, a perennial flowering plant, is replete with proteins, vitamins, and calcium. Especially beneficial for growing rabbits, it aids in muscle and bone development. However, older rabbits should consume it sparingly due to its high calcium content, which might cause kidney stones or urinary tract problems if overeaten.

Anise

Characterized by its distinct flavor and aroma, Anise aids digestion and can act as an appetite stimulant for rabbits. However, given its strong taste, not all rabbits might be keen on it. Additionally, large amounts might be too overpowering and potentially cause stomach upset.

Angelica

Angelica, often found in traditional medicine, possesses anti-inflammatory benefits which might aid rabbits with minor inflammations. Though not a typical rabbit , introducing it gradually while watching out for allergies or sensitivities is advised.

Agrimony

A plant with tall stalks and yellow , Agrimony is known for addressing digestive issues. For rabbits, it could potentially help soothe mild digestive discomforts. Due to the limited research on its long-term effects, moderation and close observation are crucial.

Basil

, a fragrant herb used extensively in culinary arts, has a rich profile of antioxidants beneficial for rabbits. Apart from boosting the immune system, it also promotes cardiovascular health. To ensure a balanced diet, it’s advised to rotate basil with other herbs.

Borage

Borage , known for their cucumber-like taste, have anti-inflammatory properties beneficial for rabbit heart health. While it’s a good addition to a rabbit’s diet, like all herbs, a balanced approach is best to avoid potential issues.

Calendula

, with its bright orange petals, isn’t just visually appealing but also promotes healing. Its anti-inflammatory properties can be beneficial for skin conditions. Though safe, it’s best given as part of a diversified diet to rabbits.

Caraway

Caraway seeds have been used for centuries to aid digestion. For rabbits, they might assist in soothing the digestive tract. However, excessive amounts can disrupt their delicate digestive balance, so moderation is crucial.

Catnip

Not just for cats, Catnip can be consumed by rabbits too. While it may induce a mild sedative effect in bunnies, there’s no harm in giving them a little. As with all herbs, always observe your rabbit’s reaction when introducing something new.

Chamomile

Chamomile’s calming properties aren’t just beneficial for humans. Rabbits can benefit from its soothing effects, especially for those with digestive problems. However, it’s essential to give in controlled amounts to prevent potential allergies or sensitivities.

Chickweed

Chickweed, commonly found in gardens, is packed with vitamins and minerals. Beneficial for skin and overall health, rabbits usually enjoy it. However, as with any herb, monitoring for overconsumption is essential.

Chicory

A plant with vibrant blue flowers, Chicory is rich in fiber and vitamins. While it can be a nutritious addition, overfeeding might lead to bloating in rabbits. As such, it’s essential to balance it with other greens.

Chervil

Chervil, similar in appearance to parsley, provides essential minerals to rabbits. Though safe, to ensure a well-rounded diet, it should be combined with other herbs and greens, making it a part of a varied meal plan.

Cilantro

Often confused with flat-leaf parsley, Cilantro is a favorite among many rabbits. Rich in vitamins, it’s a healthy addition to their diet but should be balanced with other herbs to ensure they’re not overly reliant on one source for their nutrients.

Cleavers

Also known as “stickyweed,” Cleavers can be beneficial for skin health and urinary function in rabbits. It’s essential to feed in moderation, ensuring no adverse reactions.

Coltsfoot

With leaves resembling a colt’s foot, Coltsfoot can be beneficial for respiratory issues in rabbits. Due to the limited studies on its effects on bunnies, it’s crucial to introduce slowly and monitor closely.

Comfrey

Comfrey, recognized by its bell-shaped flowers, has been traditionally used for wound healing. When fed to rabbits, it can promote bone health due to its mineral content. However, excessive consumption can be harmful, so moderation is key.

Cornflower

With striking blue petals, Cornflower can be a visual and dietary treat for rabbits. Though not high in nutrients, it can be an occasional treat. Always ensure it’s pesticide-free before feeding.

Cowslip

Part of the primrose family, Cowslip can be a spring treat for rabbits. Its mild sedative properties might help soothe nervous bunnies. As it’s not a traditional rabbit food, monitoring for any allergies or sensitivities is vital.

Cress

A peppery herb, Cress is rich in vitamins and can be an occasional treat. Given its strong flavor, introducing in small amounts and observing how your rabbit reacts is advised.

Dandelion

Dandelions, often deemed as common weeds, are actually nutritional powerhouses for rabbits. The entire plant, from roots to leaves, can be consumed, providing vitamins and minerals. The diuretic properties also aid kidney function. However, ensure dandelions are free from pesticides before offering to rabbits.

Dead Nettles

Despite their ominous name, Dead Nettles are entirely safe for rabbits and are rich in vitamins. Unlike stinging nettles, they don’t cause irritation. They can provide dietary variety but should be introduced slowly to observe potential allergies.

Dill

A fragrant herb with feathery leaves, Dill is both tasty and beneficial for rabbits. It aids digestion and helps prevent gas. As with other herbs, moderation is key to prevent overconsumption and ensure a varied diet.

Echinacea

Commonly known for boosting the immune system, Echinacea can be given to rabbits for the same purpose. It also possesses anti-inflammatory properties. As it’s not a typical rabbit herb, introduction should be slow and in moderate amounts.

Eyebright

Eyebright, traditionally used for eye ailments in various animals, can be offered to rabbits as a general health boost. Ensure it’s fed as a part of a varied diet, observing for any adverse reactions.

Fennel

Fennel’s aromatic seeds and bulb can be a delightful treat for rabbits. It aids in digestion and helps reduce gas. However, excessive consumption can disrupt a rabbit’s digestive balance, so moderation is essential.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek, with its maple-like aroma, can be a rabbit’s favorite. Its seeds offer health benefits such as aiding digestion. However, owing to its strong flavor and potential to cause digestive upsets in large amounts, moderation is advised.

Feverfew

Known for its traditional use in treating fevers and migraines, Feverfew can be an occasional treat for rabbits. Its long-term effects on bunnies are not extensively studied, so ensure it’s offered in controlled quantities and not as a regular diet staple.

Fumitory

Though less common in rabbit diets, Fumitory can be given as an occasional treat. Its benefits for rabbits aren’t extensively documented, so introduce slowly while observing for any sensitivities.

Ginger

Renowned for its medicinal properties, Ginger can be beneficial for rabbits, especially for its anti-inflammatory benefits. It’s best offered in moderation, as excessive amounts might cause stomach discomfort.

Ginkgo

While Ginkgo leaves are celebrated for boosting cognitive functions in humans, their benefits for rabbits are relatively unknown. As such, if choosing to offer Ginkgo, do so sparingly and observe for any adverse reactions.

Goldenrod

Goldenrod can be an excellent supplement for rabbits, particularly for its anti-inflammatory properties. It’s crucial to ensure it’s pesticide-free and fed as a part of a varied diet to ensure nutritional balance.

Goosegrass

Often found in gardens, Goosegrass, or “stickyweed,” can be beneficial for rabbits’ skin health and urinary function. Like all herbs, feed in moderation and monitor for overconsumption.

Green Tea

While Green Tea leaves can be given to rabbits for their antioxidant properties, it’s essential to provide them unsweetened and in moderation. The caffeine content, albeit low, means it should be an occasional treat only.

Ground Ivy

Ground Ivy, rich in vitamin C and known for its medicinal properties, can be an occasional addition to a rabbit’s diet. Always introduce new herbs like this slowly and ensure it’s pesticide-free.

Hawthorn

Both leaves and berries can be consumed by rabbits. They are known for promoting heart health and can be a beneficial supplement. However, ensure they are fed in controlled amounts to prevent potential stomach upsets.

Hibiscus

The vibrant can be a treat for rabbits, both visually and nutritionally. Rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, they are beneficial but should be given in moderation to maintain dietary balance.

Hops

Though better known for beer production, Hops can be an occasional treat for rabbits. However, it’s not a traditional rabbit food, so always monitor your pet for any potential sensitivities or allergies when introducing Hops.

Horsetail

Horsetail, with its reed-like appearance, can aid in kidney function for rabbits. However, due to its diuretic properties, it’s essential to offer it in moderation and observe for any dehydration signs.

Hyssop

Hyssop, known for its aromatic leaves and blue flowers, can be a part of a rabbit’s varied diet. It has been used traditionally for respiratory issues. Introduce slowly to ensure there are no adverse reactions.

Knotgrass

Knotgrass, often overlooked, is rich in nutrients and beneficial for rabbits when offered in moderation. Ensure it’s free from pesticides before offering, and always monitor for overconsumption or any adverse reactions.

Lady’s Mantle

Known for its scalloped leaves, Lady’s Mantle can be a treat for rabbits. While it’s not high in nutrients, it can offer some variety in their diet. As with all herbs, introduce slowly to avoid any potential allergies.

Lavender

, celebrated for its calming properties, can be given to rabbits in small amounts. Its soothing aroma might also help in calming nervous or stressed bunnies. However, ensure it’s used in moderation due to its strong flavor.

Lemon Balm

With its pleasant lemony scent, Lemon can aid digestion in rabbits. It also has calming properties. Given its aromatic nature, introduce slowly and in moderation to ensure a balanced diet for your bunny.

Lemon Verbena

This fragrant herb, known for its lemony scent, can be an occasional treat for rabbits. While it provides some dietary variety, its effects on rabbits aren’t extensively studied, so offer in controlled amounts.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass can be a refreshing treat for rabbits due to its citrusy aroma. It aids in digestion but should be offered sparingly since the intense flavor might not be preferred by all bunnies.

Lovage

With a flavor reminiscent of , Lovage can be given to rabbits in moderation. It’s beneficial for digestion and offers a varied flavor profile for your pet’s diet. As always, introduce slowly to observe any sensitivities.

Lungwort

Lungwort, traditionally used for respiratory issues, can be an occasional treat for rabbits. Its safety and benefits for rabbits aren’t extensively documented, so introduce in small quantities while observing any reactions.

Mallow

Both the leaves and flowers of Mallow plants can be given to rabbits. They offer a varied nutrient profile and can be beneficial when introduced as part of a diverse diet. Monitor for overconsumption or potential allergies.

Marjoram

Marjoram, closely related to oregano, offers a slightly sweet and citrusy flavor that rabbits might enjoy. Rich in antioxidants, it can be beneficial for your bunny when introduced in moderation.

Marshmallow

Not to be confused with the sugary treat, Marshmallow plant can be beneficial for rabbits due to its soothing properties, especially for the digestive system. Offer the leaves and flowers in moderation to ensure dietary balance.

Meadowsweet

Meadowsweet, known for its aromatic nature, can be an occasional treat for rabbits. Traditional uses include pain relief and stomach soothing. Always ensure it’s introduced slowly and in controlled quantities.

Milk Thistle

Beneficial for liver health, Milk Thistle can be given to rabbits in moderation. The seeds are especially nutritious. However, as it’s not a traditional rabbit food, always monitor for any potential sensitivities when introducing.

Mint

Rabbits often enjoy the refreshing taste of mint. It aids digestion and can help soothe upset stomachs. Given its strong flavor, it’s essential to offer in moderation, ensuring a varied and balanced diet for your pet.

Mullein

Mullein, with its tall yellow flower spikes, can be an occasional addition to a rabbit’s diet. While its benefits for rabbits aren’t extensively documented, traditional uses hint at respiratory health benefits. Introduce cautiously.

Mugwort

Mugwort offers a slightly bitter taste that some rabbits might enjoy. Traditionally, it has been used for various medicinal purposes. However, because it can be potent, offer it to rabbits in moderation and watch for any adverse reactions.

Nasturtium

Nasturtium, with its vibrant flowers and rounded leaves, is not only ornamental but also nutritious. Both the leaves and flowers can be offered to rabbits, providing them with a source of vitamin C and other nutrients. It’s also known to have natural antibiotic properties.

Nettle

While stinging nettles might sound threatening, they’re actually packed with nutrients, including iron, magnesium, and vitamin C. Once dried or cooked, the sting disappears, making them safe for rabbits. They can be beneficial, especially for older rabbits or those with arthritis.

Oatstraw

Oatstraw, derived from the green stem of the oat plant, is rich in minerals and beneficial for rabbit digestion. It also supports a healthy coat. Offer it in moderation as a part of a varied diet, ensuring that it’s pesticide-free.

Oregano

Oregano is more than just a kitchen herb. It’s packed with antioxidants and can boost the immune system. Rabbits can benefit from its aromatic leaves, but due to its strong flavor, it’s best given in moderation.

Parsley

A favorite among many rabbits, is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin C. However, it’s best offered in moderation as excessive consumption can lead to calcium buildup in bunnies with existing kidney issues.

Pea Shoots

, the young tendrils of pea plants, are crunchy and nutritious. They offer rabbits a good source of vitamins A and C. Ensure they’re fresh and pesticide-free when offering them to your pet.

Pennyroyal

While pennyroyal has been traditionally used for various remedies, it is potent and can be toxic in large quantities. It’s best to exercise caution and avoid offering it to rabbits or offer it very sparingly after consulting with a vet.

Peppermint

Peppermint is not just refreshing for us but also for rabbits. The cooling sensation can be enjoyable, and it aids in digestion. Like other aromatic herbs, introduce slowly and offer in moderation due to its intense flavor.

Plantain

Not to be confused with the banana-like fruit, are beneficial for rabbits. They aid in digestion and have anti-inflammatory properties. They’re a common wild plant, but always ensure they’re pesticide-free before offering.

Purslane

Purslane is a succulent-like herb rich in omega-3 fatty acids. It can be a nutritious addition to a rabbit’s diet, offering benefits for heart health. However, due to its content, it should be given in moderation to avoid digestive upsets.

Raspberry Leaves

Raspberry leaves can be a nutritious addition to a rabbit’s diet, known to support healthy reproduction and general well-being. These leaves are high in fiber, ensuring good digestion. However, ensure they’re pesticide-free before offering.

Red Clover

Red , with its distinct pinkish-red flowers, is rich in protein and can be given to rabbits in moderation. While it can provide dietary variety, avoid overconsumption as excessive protein can be hard on a rabbit’s kidneys.

Ribwort

Ribwort, a variety of plantain, offers similar benefits, aiding digestion and possessing anti-inflammatory properties. As a common wild plant, always ensure they’re free from chemicals and pesticides before introducing to your rabbit.

Rose Petals

Rose petals can be a delightful treat for rabbits. They are aromatic, offer some dietary variety, and are safe when sourced from untreated . Ensure the petals haven’t been exposed to pesticides or other chemicals.

Rosemary

A fragrant herb, rosemary can be given to rabbits in small amounts. Its strong flavor may not appeal to all rabbits, but it’s known to have antioxidant properties. Like other aromatic herbs, offer in moderation.

Sage

Sage, with its strong aroma, can be beneficial in small amounts. It’s known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Due to its potency, always introduce to your rabbit’s diet slowly and monitor for any adverse reactions.

Sagebrush

Sagebrush, native to North America, is distinct from culinary sage. While it’s a primary food source for some wildlife, it’s not a common food for rabbits. If considering introduction, do so cautiously and in limited amounts.

Salad Burnet

Salad burnet, with its cucumber-like taste, can be a refreshing addition to a rabbit’s diet. It’s relatively safe and can offer some dietary diversity. As with all new foods, introduce gradually to gauge your bunny’s reaction.

Salsify

Salsify, also known as oyster plant due to its taste, can be given to rabbits in moderate amounts. The roots are particularly nutritious. Always ensure it’s fresh and free from chemicals before offering to your pet.

Selfheal

Selfheal, often found in meadows, is traditionally known for its medicinal properties. While it can be an occasional treat for rabbits, its effects and benefits aren’t extensively documented for them, so introduce cautiously.

Shepherd’s Purse

Shepherd’s Purse is recognized by its heart-shaped seed pods. This herb can offer rabbits a variety in their diet, but due to its medicinal properties in humans, it should be given in moderation to rabbits. Always ensure it’s sourced from a clean, pesticide-free area.

Sorrel

Sorrel offers a tangy flavor that some rabbits might find appealing. Rich in vitamins, it can be a healthy addition in moderation. However, due to its oxalic acid content, excessive amounts could be harmful. Introduce gradually and observe for any negative reactions.

Spinach

Spinach is nutrient-rich, providing vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals. While beneficial, it’s best to offer it sparingly to rabbits due to its oxalic acid content, which in large amounts can lead to kidney issues.

Strawberry Leaves

can be a delightful addition to your rabbit’s menu. High in fiber and offering a slightly astringent taste, they can provide a good munching alternative. Ensure the leaves are fresh and free from any chemicals or pesticides.

Tansy

Tansy, with its yellow button-like flowers, should be approached with caution. While it has historical medicinal uses, it contains compounds that can be toxic in large quantities. It’s advisable to avoid offering tansy to rabbits or to do so only after consulting with a veterinarian.

Tarragon

Tarragon is an aromatic herb with a slightly anise-like flavor. It can be introduced to rabbits in small quantities. While it has antioxidant properties, its strong taste might not be favored by all rabbits. Always offer fresh and in moderation.

Teasel

Teasel, known for its prickly seed heads, is not commonly offered to rabbits. While some wild animals might consume it, its suitability for domestic rabbits isn’t well-documented. If considering, introduce cautiously and monitor for any reactions.

Thyme

, a fragrant herb, can be a beneficial addition in small quantities. It possesses antioxidant properties and can aid digestion. Due to its strong aroma, introduce it slowly to your rabbit’s diet and always ensure it’s fresh.

Valerian

Valerian is known for its sedative properties in humans. While it might be tempting to introduce it to rabbits, its effects on them aren’t well-researched. If considering offering valerian, do so sparingly and under the guidance of a vet.

Vervain

Vervain has been used traditionally for various ailments. For rabbits, it can be given occasionally as part of a varied diet. Always source from clean areas and introduce gradually, observing your rabbit for any adverse effects.

Violet Leaves

Violet leaves, with their heart-shaped appearance, can be a nutritious addition to a rabbit’s diet. They are high in vitamins A and C, providing support for the immune system. As always, ensure they are fresh and free from chemicals before offering them to your pet.

Watercress

is a peppery, aquatic plant that offers vitamins and minerals beneficial for rabbits. However, due to its high calcium content, it should be given in moderation, especially to bunnies that are prone to bladder stones or other kidney-related issues.

Watermint

Watermint, often found in wetlands, can be a refreshing herb for rabbits, aiding in digestion. However, as with many mint varieties, it’s potent, so it should be introduced slowly and given in moderation to avoid overwhelming their palate.

Wheatgrass

is nutrient-dense and can be an excellent source of vitamins and minerals for rabbits. It aids in digestion and supports overall health. You can offer it fresh or even consider growing a tray for your rabbit to graze on.

Wild Basil

Wild basil, distinct from sweet basil, offers dietary variety for rabbits. It’s aromatic and can provide some antioxidant benefits. Ensure it’s free from pesticides and introduce in moderate amounts to gauge your rabbit’s preference.

Wild Strawberry

Wild strawberry leaves can be a delightful treat, similar to regular strawberry leaves. They’re high in fiber, ensuring good digestion. Always make sure they’re sourced from areas free of chemicals and pesticides.

Wild Thyme

Wild thyme, similar to common thyme, can be a fragrant addition to your rabbit’s diet. It has digestive benefits and can offer some variety. As with other aromatic herbs, introduce it gradually and ensure it’s fresh when given.

Willow Leaves

Willow leaves can be a good source of pain relief for rabbits due to their natural salicin content, which acts similarly to aspirin. They can be given occasionally, but always monitor for any reactions, especially if offered in conjunction with other medications.

Yarrow

Yarrow, with its feathery leaves and clusters of flowers, can be given to rabbits in moderation. It has been traditionally used for its medicinal properties. As always, introduce any new herb slowly and ensure it’s free from harmful chemicals.

Yellow Trefoil

Yellow trefoil, a leguminous herb, can offer some protein to a rabbit’s diet. While it can be consumed by rabbits, like other protein-rich foods, it should be given in moderation to avoid stressing the kidneys.

Yucca

Yucca, known for its sword-like leaves, is not a common food for rabbits. While some components might offer anti-inflammatory benefits, its suitability for rabbits isn’t well-documented. If considering, introduce cautiously and consult with a veterinarian.

Best Herbs for Rabbits to Eat

References:

1. https://bunnylady.com/herbs-for-rabbits/
2. https://smallpetselect.com/herbs-for-rabbits/
3. https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/recommended-vegetables-and-herbs/

Disclaimer

Please note that while every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and safety of this list, individual rabbits may react differently to certain foods. It’s essential to introduce any new food, including herbs, into your rabbit’s diet gradually and monitor for any adverse reactions. If you’re unsure about any item on this list or notice any negative reactions in your rabbit, consult with a veterinarian immediately. Always prioritize the health and well-being of your furry companion.