Yes, Rabbits Can Eat Asparagus! But Follow These 5 Tips

When prepared correctly, rabbits can eat asparagus. In fact, it is pretty nutritious. It includes a lot of fiber and folate – both things your rabbit needs. The fiber helps as a digestive aid, and we all know how sensitive a rabbit’s stomach is.

It’s also low in calories, allowing your rabbit to eat more than they can eat other treats.

However, you can’t just start feeding your rabbit asparagus willy-nilly. It’s important to prepare it properly:

1. Introduce it Slowly

You shouldn’t start by feeding your rabbit tons of asparagus. Asparagus is pretty safe for your rabbit, but it can take time for their stomachs to adjust. Start with a small amount of asparagus, preferably no larger than a pea.

Watch your rabbit for signs of digestive upset, such as gassiness or diarrhea. Sometimes, rabbits can’t stomach asparagus even though it is technically okay for them to have it. All rabbits are individuals, and it’s important to consider your rabbit’s reaction.

2. Wash it Thoroughly

Asparagus can have dirt and other contaminants, such as insecticides. You must wash it well before giving any of it to your rabbit. Rabbits are much more sensitive to these contaminants than humans, so even a very small amount can harm them.

3. Moderate the Amount

Even if your rabbit takes very well to asparagus, you shouldn’t give them tons of it. It doesn’t provide them with everything they need to survive. If you allow them to overeat, they may not eat the other foods that do provide a complete diet. Don’t let your rabbit fill up on asparagus and miss out on other foods.

Furthermore, most rabbits cannot eat unlimited amounts of asparagus without side effects. You can expect gas and bloating due to the high amount of fiber. While some fiber is good for your rabbit, too much can be harmful.

4. Remove the Tough Ends

The tougher ends of the asparagus stalk can be harder for your rabbit to eat and digest. Sometimes, they can even be so tough that your rabbit may have difficulty chewing them. It’s best to remove any tough ends the asparagus has before giving your rabbit any.

While at it, you should also cut the asparagus small so your rabbit can eat it more easily. Very long pieces can be harder for your rabbit to chew and consume. They may even be choking hazards for your rabbit.

5. Asparagus Only

Rabbits can eat asparagus raw and cooked. If you decide to cook it, be sure that you don’t use any salts, oils, or other additives. These can be harmful to your rabbit, even in minimal amounts.

Be careful with canned asparagus, too. More often than not, canned asparagus has other things added to it, and many of these are not okay for your rabbit to eat. Always double-check the ingredient list.

The photo featured at the top of this post is © kobeza/iStock via Getty Images