Rabbits and guinea pigs are two of the most popular small pets in Australia. Loved for their gentle natures, playful personalities, and low-maintenance lifestyles, these furry companions bring a lot of joy into households. However, one of the most important parts of caring for rabbits and guinea pigs is making sure their diet is balanced, nutritious, and safe. Feeding the wrong foods can lead to serious health issues, while a proper diet can help them thrive for many years. At Woonona Petfoods, we believe in helping pet owners make informed choices, so here’s a complete guide to safe and unsafe foods for rabbits and guinea pigs.
The Importance of Diet for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
Both rabbits and guinea pigs are herbivores, meaning their diet should consist primarily of plant-based foods. A proper diet ensures good digestion, dental health, and overall wellbeing. While they share many dietary similarities, it’s worth remembering that guinea pigs require Vitamin C in their diets as their bodies cannot produce it naturally, while rabbits do not. Providing a variety of safe vegetables, herbs, and high-quality hay is essential for both species.
Safe Foods for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
Hay and Grass: Unlimited fresh hay (such as timothy, oaten, or meadow hay) should always form the foundation of a rabbit or guinea pig’s diet. Hay is essential for good digestion and helps keep teeth naturally worn down, preventing overgrowth and discomfort. Fresh grass is also a great addition, as long as it has not been treated with chemicals or pesticides.
For a premium option, we recommend Alfalfa King Timothy Hay, a delicious and highly nutritious choice for small animals. This 100% natural hay is sun-dried and carefully prepared to lock in flavour and nutrients. Its rich, leafy-green texture and robust aroma make it irresistible to rabbits and guinea pigs, encouraging them to eat more hay as part of their daily diet.
Vegetables: Leafy greens are the best daily choice. Options such as kale, bok choy, silverbeet, spinach (in moderation), rocket, endive, and lettuce varieties (avoid iceberg) are excellent sources of fibre and nutrients. Other vegetables like capsicum, zucchini, cucumber, carrot tops, and broccoli can be offered in small amounts.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley, coriander, mint, and basil are safe and provide enrichment as well as variety in flavour.
Fruit (in moderation): Fruits should only be offered as an occasional treat due to their high sugar content. Safe options include apple slices (without seeds), pear, strawberry, blueberry, and melon.
Pellets: While hay should always remain the foundation of a rabbit or guinea pig’s diet, high-quality pellets can be offered in small amounts to provide balanced nutrition. For guinea pigs, it is especially important to select pellets with added Vitamin C, as they cannot produce this vitamin themselves.
For rabbits, we recommend Oxbow Essentials Adult Rabbit Food, a premium high-fibre, low-protein diet tailored to the nutritional needs of adult rabbits. Made with Oxbow Western Timothy Hay, these pellets support healthy digestion, weight management, and overall wellbeing. Fortified with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and prebiotics, this wholesome formula contains no artificial colours, flavours, or preservatives.
For guinea pigs, Oxbow Essentials Adult Guinea Pig is an excellent choice. This high-fibre, nutritionally complete diet is designed to support digestive health, dental care, and overall vitality. Made with premium Western Timothy Hay, it includes stabilised Vitamin C, which is crucial for guinea pigs’ health. The uniform pellet design prevents selective feeding, so your guinea pig enjoys consistent, balanced nutrition every day.
Unsafe Foods for Rabbits and Guinea Pigs
While many fruits, vegetables, and plants are safe, others can be dangerous. Feeding unsafe foods can cause digestive upset, toxicity, or even life-threatening conditions. It’s important to know what to avoid.
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Iceberg lettuce: Lacks nutrition and can cause diarrhoea.
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Potatoes and potato leaves: Contain toxic compounds harmful to both rabbits and guinea pigs.
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Onion, garlic, and chives: Can cause blood disorders and digestive upset.
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Avocado: Contains persin, which is toxic to rabbits and guinea pigs.
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Rhubarb: Leaves and stalks are highly poisonous.
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Chocolate, biscuits, or processed foods: Never feed human snacks or junk food, as they can be fatal.
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Seeds and pits from fruit: Apple seeds and stone fruit pits contain cyanide compounds and must be avoided.
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Grain-based diets: Bread, pasta, crackers, or cereals are not suitable and can upset their digestive system.
Signs Your Pet Has Eaten Unsafe Foods
If your rabbit or guinea pig accidentally consumes unsafe food, monitor them closely. Warning signs include loss of appetite, lethargy, diarrhoea, bloating, or unusual behaviour. If you suspect poisoning, contact a veterinarian immediately. Quick action can make all the difference in ensuring your pet’s safety.
Tips for Feeding Rabbits and Guinea Pigs Safely
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Introduce new foods gradually: Sudden dietary changes can upset their delicate digestive systems. Always add new vegetables or herbs one at a time and monitor for any adverse reactions.
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Wash all fresh produce: Even safe foods can be harmful if they carry pesticides or chemicals. Wash thoroughly before feeding.
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Offer variety: Rotate vegetables and herbs to provide a wide range of nutrients and prevent boredom.
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Provide fresh water: Clean drinking water must always be available, ideally in a bottle or heavy ceramic dish that won’t tip over.
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Limit fruit: Treat fruit as a special snack, not a staple. Offer in very small amounts just a few times a week.
The Reward of Feeding Right
Feeding your rabbit or guinea pig the right diet is one of the best ways to ensure they live a long, healthy, and happy life. A balanced diet not only keeps their digestive system running smoothly but also supports dental health, energy, and overall wellbeing. By understanding which foods are safe and which are not, you’ll be giving your pet the best chance at a thriving life.
If you’re unsure about the best diet for your pet, visit us at Woonona Petfoods or explore our online store for trusted products tailored to small animal care. With the right nutrition and a little love, your rabbit or guinea pig will reward you with companionship, joy, and endless cuteness for years to come.
