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Metairie, LA- Dr. Gregory Rich, Director of West Esplanade Veterinary Clinic and Bird Hospital, explains how to keep a rabbit well fed and happy.   He says the key is to make meal time a challenge– not for you, but for your pet.

Lagniappe:  From “House Rabbit Society,” June Booth:

The most important item in your rabbit’s diet, besides plenty of water, is hay.  Grass hays are recommended (Timothy or Orchard Grass) instead of high-calorie alfalfa hay.

Rabbits should also have 2 to 4 cups of fresh vegetables each day, such as broccoli leaves, kale, parsley, carrot tops,and other dark, leafy, green veggies.  No iceberg lettuce or onions.

In addition to hay and veggies, adult rabbits should eat about 1/4 cup of pellets (only plain, green pellets– no nuts or seeds) per day.

For more information, contact West Esplanade Veterinary Clinic at 504-455-6386.