Poppies release a strong fragrance and milky sap that deters rabbits from eating them. This is good because poppies are toxic to rabbits! It’s best to keep rabbits away from poppies, but they are unlikely to eat them if they are around them.
There is no denying that rabbits enjoy eating different kinds of flowers and plants, but poppies are actually a flower they try to avoid because they do not like the smell and the creamy sap that these flowers release.
This is for the best because while poppies are beautiful, they are toxic to rabbits. Generally, rabbits prefer the smell of sunflowers, pansies, dandelions, and other flowers instead of poppies, so try to keep them away from poppies and around flowers like these because they are much more likely to enjoy the smell. They are also edible and perfectly safe for rabbits to eat.
What You'll Learn
What Makes Poppies Toxic?
Poppy flowers contain opium alkaloids. If your rabbit consumes these alkaloids, it can poison them, and they may become sluggish and tired or have diarrhea or seizures.
Poisoning in rabbits can be extremely dangerous, so it is best to keep them away from poppies, even if they are unlikely to eat them.
Do Rabbits Eat Poppy Seeds?
While the smell of the flower and the sap deter rabbits from eating the petals, poppy seeds are a different story.
Poppy seeds are very popular in different food items, commonly muffins, cookies, or bagels. Because they do not release the smell and sap that rabbits stay away from like the poppy flowers, they might eat poppy seeds, especially if they are on a delicious muffin!
The poppy seeds have a high amount of opium alkaloids, which is toxic to rabbits. It is important to make sure your rabbit does not have access to poppy seeds because they can be very dangerous for rabbits to eat. Always make sure poppy seed muffins and everything bagels are not in reach of your rabbit!
What To Do if Your Rabbit Eats a Poppy
If your rabbit decides to ignore the smell and eat a poppy or gets access to poppy seeds, definitely look out for signs of intoxication.
These symptoms include drowsiness or lethargy, diarrhea, or seizures. If you notice your rabbit is showing these signs, go to the vet.
Your vet will know the proper treatment based on what the rabbit ate and the symptoms they are showing. Try to go as soon as you can because intoxication in rabbits in some cases can be severe.
If your rabbit ate a tiny bit of poppy and is not displaying any signs of intoxication, it is still best to watch them very closely. Rabbits will sometimes try to hide if they are feeling ill, so ensure your rabbit is active and not showing any signs of poisoning.
Flowers that Rabbits Like
Even though rabbits do not love poppies, there are many flowers that rabbits love. Pansies, clovers, daisies, sunflowers, roses, and dandelions are all plants that rabbits will eat.
These flowers are completely edible and safe for rabbits to consume, and they will probably try because rabbits enjoy eating flower petals.
Unlike poppies, these flowers release an aroma that rabbits enjoy. So even if they are not eating the flowers, they might like to have them around.
Other Toxic Flowers
There are many other flowers besides poppies that rabbits should avoid. Some of these flowers include daffodils, azaleas, buttercups, periwinkle, holly, and nightshade, but there are many more!
Many people buy flowers for their coffee tables or kitchens and forget to check if it is toxic to rabbits.
Before you do your spring gardening or purchase flowers, double-check the flowers and plants you plan on getting and make sure they are not poisonous to rabbits.
Rabbits Love Flowers, But Not Poppies
Rabbits generally love flowers but are not likely to eat poppies because they do not like the strong aroma and creamy sap that these flowers emit.
Poppies are toxic to rabbits, so keep your rabbit away from these beautiful flowers and tasty seeds just in case!
Instead, plant or purchase flowers like pansies, sunflowers, daisies, or roses, and avoid poppies, azaleas, daffodils, and other toxic plants to ensure your rabbit’s safety.
Also, double-check your garden and any flowers or plants you plan to keep in your household to ensure they are not toxic to rabbits.
If your rabbit consumes poppy petals, poppy seeds, or any other toxic flower or plant, watch for signs of intoxication like lethargy, diarrhea, or seizures, and reach out to your veterinarian to ensure your rabbit gets the proper treatment.
