Do not feed fish to rabbits. Fish contains high levels of mercury and other toxins that can be fatal to rabbits. Additionally, the bones in fish can be a choking hazard and may even puncture a rabbit’s digestive tract.
Have you ever wondered if your rabbit can eat fish? If so, you’re not alone. Many rabbits owners have asked us if it’s ok to feed fish to their rabbits, and if so, what type of fish would be the best.
Rabbits are primarily herbivores, meaning their diet consists mainly of plants. However, they are known to eat small amounts of meat if it’s offered to them.
However, just because a rabbit will eat something doesn’t mean it should. You should not feed fish to your rabbit. Read on to find out why.
What You'll Learn
7 Reasons Rabbits Should Not Eat Fish
There are several reasons why fish is not good food for rabbits. The most basic is that rabbits are herbivores, and their digestive system is not designed to process meat, let alone fish.
But there’s more to it than just that. Below we will go over 7 of the top reasons fish is unhealthy for rabbits.
Contains High Levels of Mercury
One of the main reasons you should not feed fish to your rabbit is because it contains high levels of mercury. Mercury is a heavy metal that is toxic to many animals, including rabbits.
In fact, just a small amount of mercury can be fatal to a rabbit. So, if you are considering feeding your rabbit fish, you should know there is a very real risk of them becoming seriously ill or even dying.
May Cause Allergic Reactions
Another reason you may want to avoid feeding fish to your rabbit is that they can be allergic to the protein in fish. Just like people, some rabbits are allergic to certain foods.
If your rabbit is allergic to fish, it may experience various symptoms, including skin irritation, diarrhea, vomiting, and difficulty breathing.
If you notice any of these symptoms in your rabbit after they have eaten fish, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
The Bones May Splinter
Another reason you should not feed fish to your rabbit is that the bones can splinter and cause digestive issues.
The bones in fish are not the same as those in other meats, such as chicken or beef. They are much thinner and more delicate. This means they are more likely to splinter when chewed on by a rabbit.
If a rabbit swallows a splinter of fish bone, it can puncture their digestive tract or cause an obstruction. Either of these can be very dangerous and even fatal.
Fish May Cause Digestive Problems in Rabbits
As we mentioned before, rabbits are herbivores, and their digestive system is not designed to process meat. This means that feeding fish to a rabbit can cause digestive problems.
Some symptoms of digestive problems in rabbits include diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, and gas. If you notice any of these symptoms in your rabbit after they have eaten fish, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
Some Fish May Contain Parasites That Can Infect a Rabbit
In addition to the high levels of mercury and the risk of splintering, some fish may also contain parasites that can infect a rabbit. These parasites can cause various health problems in rabbits, including gastrointestinal issues, weight loss, and even death.
Rabbits May Not Like the Taste of Fish
Another reason you may want to avoid feeding fish to your rabbit is that they may not like the taste. While some rabbits may be curious about fish and want to try it, others may not be interested at all.
Fish is Not a Natural Part of a Rabbit’s Diet
Last but not least, it’s important to remember that fish is not a natural part of a rabbit’s diet. In the wild, rabbits eat plants and grass primarily. They only eat meat if they are desperate or if no other food is available.
For this reason, it’s best to stick to a diet similar to what a rabbit eats in the wild. This means feeding them mostly hay, fresh vegetables, and a small number of pellets.
What Should You Do if Your Rabbit Ate Fish?
If you think your rabbit ate fish, it’s important to watch them closely for any signs of illness. Some symptoms to look for include skin irritation, diarrhea, vomiting, bloating, and difficulty breathing. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s important to seek veterinary care immediately.
It’s also a good idea to avoid feeding your rabbit fish in the future. There are several risks that come with it, and it’s not a natural part of their diet. Stick to hay, fresh vegetables, and a small number of pellets to keep your rabbit healthy and happy.
Fish is Healthy For Humans, But Not Rabbits
While some people believe that feeding their rabbit the occasional piece of fish is harmless, several risks come with it. From the high levels of mercury to the risk of parasites, there are many reasons you should avoid feeding fish to your rabbit. If you have any questions or concerns about your rabbit’s diet, it’s always best to talk to a veterinarian.
