In the American Southeast, strawberry season is a hotly anticipated time of year and for good reason! These amazingly luscious and ripe berries have drawn many a fan, human and rabbit alike.
Sweet, ripe strawberries are typically available fresh off the vine from the beginning of April through Mother’s Day. If you’re like us, you can’t help but want to share your delicious produce with your pet bunny. But are strawberries actually safe for rabbits to eat? Yes, they are in moderation, but only as a snack. However, fruits are not something rabbits will often eat in the wild, and there are health risks associated with feeding too many sugary fruits!
Let’s go over more of the ins and outs of feeding strawberries as an occasional treat to your pet rabbit. From the fruit’s nutritional value, recommended amounts, and best way to feed it safely to your rabbit, you’ll learn everything that you need to know to share nature’s bounty with your furry friend. Always speak to your vet about any dietary changes or new food ingredients for your pet rabbit.
Yes! Rabbits Can Eat Strawberries
Wild rabbits do not really show too much interest in fruits and vegetables, despite the common misbelief, unless food sources are scarce.1 However, some bunnies will show interest in strawberries and can safely eat them! As they’re growing on the vine in spring, any unattended plants are likely to be nibbled on by wild rabbits around the neighborhood. Although their high sugar content means that they shouldn’t be a major part of any rabbit’s diet, they’re usually safe options to give as occasional treats.
Nutrition Facts for Strawberries
According to USDA, strawberries contain the following:
- Vitamin C
- Moderately low sugar at 0.58 grams per 12 grams of one medium strawberry
- Limited dietary fiber content at 0.24 grams per 12 grams
- Small amount of a variety of vitamins and minerals
With a calorie composition of 85% carbohydrates, 7% protein, and 8% fat, strawberries are excellent options as occasional treats for rabbits.