Apart from their regular diet that is based on fresh hay, grass and water, rabbits also enjoy different vegetables and fruits. But, these foods should be given to rabbits only occasionally. It is recommended to combine different vegetables and fruits that are safe for rabbits. If you’ve noticed that your rabbit loves squash, you may be worried about that. Maybe you are not sure is this food safe for your dog or it can be toxic.
In this article you will find the answer to this question. We will tell you something more about squash and its effects on rabbit’s health.
More about Squash
Squash is one of five species of a genus Cucurbita that is native to Mesoamerica and Andes, but today is grown all over the world. Most people consider squash a vegetable, but from a botanical point of view, squash is a fruit because it contains seeds.
There are two categories of squash – summer and winter squash. Squash can be eaten fresh, but you can also cook it on many different ways. Squash is rich in minerals and vitamins and it has many health benefits for people. But, what about rabbits?
Is Squash Safe for Rabbits?
If you are wondering whether squash is good for your rabbit or not, we have good news. Your rabbit can safely eat squash. It doesn’t contain anything that should be harmful to your bunny, so you don’t have to worry. Many rabbits enjoy eating squash, but you have to limit the amount they eat.
Also, it is recommended not to give seeds of a squash to your rabbit. It provides no nutritional value to rabbits, just like rabbits eating bread.
What Amount of Squash Is Okay?
As we have already said, you can feed your rabbit squash, but don’t give him high amounts of this food. A small piece of raw squash is more than enough for your rabbit. Squash should be used as an occasional treat and it should not substitute rabbit’s regular food. It is known that rabbit’s diet is primarly based on fresh hay and grass. Some studies have shown that vegetables, fruits and herbs can make only 15% of a rabbit’s diet. If you give your rabbit large amount of squash, he could have some stomach problems.
Also, if your rabbit is not used to fresh food treats, raw squash can cause diarrhea and other problems in the gastrointestinal tract of your bunny. So, it is recommended to give your rabbit only a small piece of squash, especially if you are introducing this food to your rabbit’s diet. If you notice any side effects, stop giving squash to your rabbit and try with some other vegetable or fruit. If there are no reactions, it is a good sign. You can use squash as an occasional snack for your bunny. Tomatoes and bunnies are okay too, as long as you don’t give the plant.
Summary
If you want your rabbit to stay healthy, give him squash, but only in small amounts. If you give squash to your rabbit for the first time, use only a small piece of this vegetable, in order to avoid any side effects. Remember that any change in rabbit’s diet must be made slowly.
