Tarragon is a safe herb for rabbits to eat. Tarragon is packed full of calcium, potassium, magnesium, and iron, which are essentials in a rabbit’s diet. However, tarragon is also an aromatic herb, which rabbits tend to ignore. Don’t be surprised if your rabbit doesn’t eat tarragon.
If you’re a rabbit owner, you may wonder if tarragon is safe for your furry friend to eat. After all, rabbits have very sensitive stomachs, and you want to ensure they eat healthy foods that won’t make them sick.
Tarragon is actually a good option for rabbits. Not only is it safe for them to eat, but it can also offer some health benefits. However, not all rabbits like the taste of tarragon. In this article, we will explore the benefits of tarragon for rabbits and also discuss the best ways to get your rabbit to eat the herb.
What You'll Learn
Tarragon is On The “Safe” List
There is a VERY long list of safe herbs for rabbits. This is because rabbits are herbivores and devour almost any plant they come into contact with. Thankfully, tarragon is on the list of safe herbs for rabbits.
Tarragon is a spice made from the dried leaves of the Artemisia dracunculus plant. It has a slightly sweet, anise-like flavor and is often used in French cuisine. Tarragon is a member of the daisy family and is related to other herbs such as marigold, basil, and sage. The name “tarragon” comes from the Arabic word for “little dragon” due to the shape of the leaves.
Many Rabbits Will Ignore Tarragon
Although tarragon is safe for rabbits and offers numerous benefits, many rabbits won’t eat it. This is because rabbits don’t love aromatic herbs, which is what tarragon is.
If your rabbit refuses to eat tarragon, it’s no big deal. This herb offers many benefits but is in no way essential to a rabbit’s diet.
How Does Tarragon Benefit Rabbits?
If your rabbit ends up eating tarragon, great! Here are some of the main benefits of this herb:
High in Calcium
Tarragon is high in calcium, which is an important nutrient for rabbits. Calcium helps keep bones and teeth healthy and aids in blood clotting. A lack of calcium can lead to health problems such as weak bones, kidney stones, and gastrointestinal issues.
Potassium
Potassium is an electrolyte that helps regulate fluid levels in the body. It’s also necessary for proper muscle function. A potassium deficiency can cause weakness, paralysis, and even death.
Magnesium
Magnesium is another electrolyte that’s important for rabbits. It helps with nerve and muscle function and regulates blood sugar levels. A magnesium deficiency can cause problems such as muscle weakness and seizures.
Iron
Iron is necessary for the production of hemoglobin, which carries oxygen in the blood. A lack of iron can lead to anemia, which can be fatal.
Vitamins A, C, E, and B Vitamins
Tarragon is also a good source of vitamins A, C, and E, as well as B vitamins. These vitamins are essential for various functions, such as immunity, vision, and skin health.
How to Prepare Tarragon For Your Rabbits
If you want to try feeding tarragon to your rabbit, there are a few things you should do first.
Wash Thoroughly
You should always wash tarragon (or any other food) before feeding it to your rabbit. This will help remove any harmful bacteria or pesticides that may be present.
Start With a Small Amount
When introducing tarragon (or any new food) to your rabbit’s diet, it’s important to start with a small amount. This will help prevent any digestive issues that may occur.
Mix it With Their Favorite Veggies
If your rabbit is hesitant to try tarragon, you can mix it with their favorite vegetables. This will make the herb more palatable and may make them more likely to eat it.
Monitor For The Next 24 Hours
After feeding tarragon to your rabbit, you should monitor them for the next 24 hours. This will help you ensure the herb doesn’t upset their digestive tract.
If your rabbit has any adverse reactions, such as diarrhea or vomiting, stop feeding them tarragon immediately and consult with a veterinarian.
How Much Tarragon Can My Rabbit Eat?
Adult rabbits can eat 2 cups of fresh herbs per day. This includes tarragon and other safe herbs such as parsley, basil, and cilantro.
You can feed your rabbit tarragon fresh, dried, or cooked. However, it’s important to note that cooked foods can lose some nutritional value. When it comes to plants, we always recommend fresh.
How to Store Tarragon
If you have tarragon that you won’t be using immediately, you can store it in the fridge for up to a week. You can also freeze it for longer-term storage.
To freeze tarragon, wash and dry the leaves thoroughly. Then, place them in a freezer-safe bag and store in the freezer for up to six months.
When thawing frozen tarragon, place the leaves in a colander and run them under cool water. This will help prevent them from becoming mushy.
Tarragon can also be dried and stored for long-term use. To do this, tie the stems together and hang them upside down in a cool, dark place. Once the leaves are dry, crumble them and store them in an airtight container.
What If My Rabbit Won’t Eat Tarragon?
If your rabbit isn’t interested in tarragon, don’t force them to eat it. A lot of rabbits do not like the taste of this herb.
Instead, try offering them other safe herbs, such as parsley, basil, or cilantro. You can also mix tarragon with their favorite vegetables to make it more palatable.
Remember – Moderation is Key
Tarragon is a safe herb for rabbits to eat in moderation. This herb is a good source of vitamins, minerals, and fiber and can help rabbits maintain a healthy diet. If you’re thinking about feeding tarragon to your rabbit, wash it thoroughly and start with a small amount. Monitor your rabbit for adverse reactions, and consult with a veterinarian if necessary.
