Rabbit Pellets
Pellets are a concentrated source of nutrients, but they should only make up a small portion of your rabbit's diet.
📌 Rule: Adult rabbits should only get 1/4 cup of pellets per 5 lbs of body weight per day. More pellets = more health problems.
What to Look for in Pellets
- High fiber — Look for 18%+ fiber content
- Low protein — 12-14% protein is ideal for adults
- Low calcium — Especially important for adult rabbits
- Timothy hay-based — First ingredient should be timothy hay, not alfalfa
What to Avoid
- Alfalfa-based pellets — Too high in calcium and protein for adults
- Mixes with seeds or nuts — Too high in fat
- Colored pellets — Unnecessary dyes and ingredients
- High protein/fat formulas — Can cause obesity
How Many Pellets?
| Rabbit Weight | Pellets per Day |
|---|---|
| 2 lbs | 2 tablespoons |
| 4 lbs | 1/4 cup |
| 6 lbs | 6 tablespoons |
| 8 lbs | 1/2 cup |
| 10 lbs | 2/3 cup |
Remember: This is a maximum amount. Many rabbits do well on less.
When to Feed More
- Young rabbits (under 6 months) — Need more calories for growth
- Pregnant/nursing does — Higher nutritional demands
- Underweight rabbits — With vet guidance
When to Feed Less
- Overweight rabbits
- Senior rabbits (reduce as activity decreases)
- Rabbits on a hay-heavy diet
Feeding Tips
- Feed at the same time each day
- Don't leave pellets sitting out — give, then remove leftovers
- Use a heavy ceramic bowl to prevent tipping
- Transition slowly when changing brands
Get the Complete Feeding Guide
Everything you need to know about feeding your rabbit for optimal health.