Can Rabbits Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Last Updated on May 31, 2023 by

Ever wondered can rabbits eat brussel sprouts? They’re very healthy for us, but will they be as good for bunnies?

Brussel sprouts are small green vegetables that look like mini cabbages. They’re part of the cabbage family of cruciferous veggies that include kales and collard greens. Brussel sprouts have a rich bright color and a sharp bitter taste.

Though some people dislike them, some enjoy their strong taste. These veggies can be prepared by steaming, stir-frying, baking, boiling, roasting, or sauteing.

If you love sprouts, you might be wondering if they are safe for your pet bunny. Can rabbits eat brussel sprouts? Let’s find out!

Can Rabbits Eat Brussel Sprouts?

Are Brussel Sprouts Good for Rabbits?

Rabbits can eat brussel sprouts because greens are generally good for their health. Brussel sprouts are low in calories and packed with nutrients, making them good for rabbits. They contain:

Vitamins

Brussel sprouts have vitamins A, C, and K.

These vitamins boost their immunity, metabolism, energy, blood-clotting capabilities, quicken healing periods, and prevent illnesses.

Fiber

Fiber is vital for your rabbit. Rabbits have delicate digestive systems, and they require a lot of fiber to aid in digestion. 

The high fiber content in brussel sprouts is good for their digestive tract.

Antioxidants

Antioxidants in brussel sprouts lower the risk of certain diseases like heart disease and cancer. They do so by neutralizing free radicals in your bunny’s body.

Minerals

Brussel sprouts contain minerals like iron and potassium. These are great for rabbit growth and development.

Effects of Feeding Brussel Sprouts to Rabbits

Brussel sprouts are a healthy addition to your rabbit’s diet. They’re much better than other veggies that have lower nutritional value.

However, they should be fed in moderation. Feeding your rabbit too many of them will lead to bloating and a painful tummy.

Brussel sprouts are gaseous vegetables. The digestive system of rabbits is not able to pass out gas. Feeding more than enough sprouts will leave them in pain and discomfort.

Avoid offering sprouts on the same day with other gassy vegetables like broccoli.

Can Rabbits Eat the Leaves and Stalks of Brussel Sprouts?

Rabbits can safely eat the leaves and stalks of brussel sprouts. Ensure that you wash them carefully to get rid of chemicals and bacteria contamination.

Avoid feeding frozen and cooked sprouts because they can be harmful to their stomachs. Always offer fresh and raw sprouts.

How to Feed Rabbits With Brussel Sprouts

When feeding brussel sprouts to your rabbit, make sure that they are fresh. If they have a strong harsh smell like old cabbage or have black spots on the leaves, throw them away.

Opt for bright colored sprouts that have tightly packed leaves. Wash them carefully and cut them into small pieces.

One small sprout or half a big sprout is enough for adult rabbits. The sprout should not be bigger than your rabbit’s head. Feed them only once a week no matter how much they seem to enjoy them.

If you are newly introducing the veggie, start with a small piece. Observe your bunny’s reaction for the next 24 hours. If they are already eating other vegetables like cabbage or broccoli, they’ll be able to adapt easily.

But if you notice that your rabbit seems uneasy or has diarrhea, stop feeding them the sprouts immediately!

Do Rabbits Like Brussel Sprouts?

brussels sprouts

Brussel sprouts have a strong distinct flavor. Most rabbits will like eating and nibbling on them. But not all bunnies will not enjoy them.

If your bunny doesn’t like their taste, you can feed them with other vegetable alternatives.

Brussel Sprouts Alternatives for Your Rabbit

There are various brussel sprouts alternatives for your rabbit. If they are not having them already, try introducing some safe veggies like:

  • Cabbage
  • Zucchini
  • Spinach
  • Broccoli
  • Cucumber
  • Carrots
  • Bell peppers
  • Bok choy
  • Dandelion greens
  • Butter lettuce
  • Romaine lettuce
  • Beet greens
  • Arugula
  • Green beans

Make sure that you alternate the vegetables and feed them minimally. This will prevent the build-up of oxalates which causes kidney stones.

What Does a Rabbit Eat?

Your rabbit’s diet will determine how healthy and strong they become. Ensuring that they are well fed with the correct diet is a necessity. According to the RSPCA, a rabbit’s diet should consist of:

Hay

In the wild, rabbits are always foraging and chewing on vegetation. Pet rabbits will mimic this behavior. They need something to chew on constantly.

Chewing helps to wear down their teeth which are constantly growing. Hay is the main food for rabbits and it should consist of 90% of their main diet.

It is good for them to chew on and also provides enough fiber for their digestive system. Ensure that your bunny has a regular supply of fresh hay.

Quality Timothy hay and fresh grass are good options. Never feed them lawn mower clippings as they are harmful to rabbits.

Pellets

rabbit food

Rabbit-friendly pellets are good for your bunny to crunch on. Pellets are rich in fiber and nutrients.

Opt for healthy pellet varieties instead of muesli-based pellets. Muesli foods bring about teeth problems and stomach issues.

Vegetables

Provide vegetables, leafy greens, and herbs to supplement their diet. Give them a variety too, like five to six different types.

For instance, you can give them brussel sprouts, broccoli, kale, parsley, and mint. Feed vegetables in small amounts. They should only make up 10% of the rabbit’s diet.

Fruits

Fruits are a great choice to give as a treat. You can offer them for good behavior or during training. Bunnies will enjoy healthy fruits like apples, oranges, melons, bananas, and grapes.

Just like with vegetables, give the fruits occasionally. Fruits have a lot of sugar which is not good for your pet’s teeth and general health.

Water

Your rabbit should have a fresh supply of clean water daily. Use a heavy ceramic bowl or a drip bottle for the water. Check the bottle often for blockage.

Conclusion

Rabbits can eat brussel sprouts. The vegetables are safe and highly nutritious for them. Introduce them slowly and in small amounts while checking for any negative reaction.

If your rabbit does not show any negative signs, you can gradually increase the amount you feed them. 

If they show signs of discomfort or stomach upsets, do not feed the sprouts again. Like with other vegetables, offer brussel sprouts once in a while.