Do Rabbits Eat Bark? [What Type of Bark is Best?]

Rabbits love eating bark, which is great news because bark offers many benefits for rabbits. One of the biggest benefits is that it helps keep their teeth healthy and strong. The constant chewing action wears down their ever-growing teeth, which can otherwise become overgrown.

When I got my first bunny, I had no idea what foods were safe for her to eat. I turned to the internet for answers, but there was so much conflicting information that it was hard to know who to trust. I didn’t want to risk giving my bunny something that would make her sick, so I mostly stuck to giving her hay and fresh vegetables. But is that enough? Are there other foods rabbits can eat that will give them the nutrients they need?

When researching what to feed your bunny, one food that often comes up is bark. But is it really safe for rabbits to eat bark? And if so, what are the benefits?

In this article, we will be covering all that and more.

Why is Bark Healthy For Rabbits?

Bark is a good source of fiber, which is essential for a healthy digestive system. It also contains many other important vitamins and minerals for rabbits, such as calcium, potassium, and magnesium.

How Much Bark Should Rabbits Eat Per Day?

There is no set amount of bark that all rabbits should eat per day, as each rabbit is different. However, a good rule of thumb is to offer your bunny a small handful of bark per day. If they seem to enjoy it and are eating it all, you can increase the amount slightly. Just be sure to keep an eye on their poop to make sure they are not overeating and making themselves constipated.

Bark Keeps Rabbits Teeth Health

Although the main benefit of rabbits eating bark is that it provides them with much-needed fiber, bark can also help to keep teeth healthy and clean. Their ever-growing teeth will be ground down by chewing on bark. When teeth become overgrown, serious problems may arise.

What Are The Risks of Overeating Bark?

If your rabbit overeats bark, it may experience problems with its digestive system. This is because too much fiber can make it difficult for the digestive system to work correctly. If your rabbit seems constipated or has trouble going to the bathroom, it may be a sign that they are eating too much bark.

How Can You Tell If Your Rabbit Is Getting Enough Fiber In Their Diet?

One way to tell if your rabbit is getting enough fiber in their diet is to look at their poop. Healthy bunny poop should be firm and round, and there should be no straining or discomfort when your rabbit goes to the bathroom. If you notice that your rabbit’s poop is soft or runny, it may be a sign that they are not getting enough fiber.

What Are Some Other Sources Of Fiber That Rabbits Can Eat?

There are many other sources of fiber that rabbits can eat, such as hay, fresh vegetables, and pellets. If your rabbit is not getting enough fiber from their diet, you may want to try offering them some of these other foods.

Bark Can Be a Great Addition To Your Rabbits Diet

So, if you’re thinking about giving your bunny some bark to eat, go ahead! Just be sure to monitor them closely and make sure they’re not overeating. And as always, consult your veterinarian if you have any questions or concerns.

FAQ

Q: What should my rabbit’s poop look like if they get enough fiber?

A: Healthy bunny poop should be firm and round, and there should be no straining or discomfort when your rabbit goes to the bathroom. If you notice that your rabbit’s poop is soft or runny, it may be a sign that they are not getting enough fiber.

Q: Is Bark Considered a choking hazard for rabbits?

A: While bark is not considered a choking hazard, it is always best to supervise your rabbit while they are eating it. If you notice they are having trouble chewing or swallowing, stop giving them bark and consult your veterinarian.

Q: Can rabbits eat any type of bark?

A: There are many different types of bark, and not all are safe for rabbits to eat. Avoid giving your rabbit bark treated with chemicals or pesticides, as well as any bark from fruit trees. The best bark for rabbits is from a hardwood tree, such as oak or maple.