NUTRITION AND FEEDING OF DWARF RABBITS

Keeping dwarf rabbits as pets is becoming increasingly popular. It does not require a lot of space and is ideal for people who live in smaller homes or apartments. Dwarf rabbits are also very friendly, so it’s no wonder that people are choosing them for this purpose more and more often. As with all animals, proper nutrition is crucial for the dwarf rabbit.

Nutrient requirement

In order to formulate a good feed ration, it is necessary to take into account the need for several essential nutrients, namely protein, fibre, fat, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins.

Protein: For proper growth, development and function of the body, the feed should contain approximately 12-16% protein. Sources include some types of hay, alfalfa, flax and sunflower seeds and legumes.

Fibre: Fibre is an essential part of a rabbit’s feed ration, as it ensures the proper functioning of the digestive tract. The feed should contain min. 18-20% fibre. The most suitable source is hay. Alfalfa pellets, grass pellets, wheat bran and oats are also sources of this nutrient in feed mixtures.

Fat: Dwarf rabbits are usually prone to becoming overweight, so the amount of fat in the diet should be limited but sufficient. 2-3% is suitable. A good source of fat is flaxseed, which has a positive effect on fur quality.

Carbohydrates: Carbohydrates are one of the main sources of energy for animals. However, as already mentioned, dwarf rabbits have a tendency towards obesity, so the amount of  carbohydrates (both starches and sugars) should be limited. The feed mixture for dwarf rabbits should contain max. 5-10% carbohydrates.

Minerals: These nutrients also occur naturally in feed. We always try to ensure an appropriate ratio of calcium to phosphorus in the feed mixtures, which should be 2:1. Calcium and phosphorus are involved in metabolism and affect the healthy development of teeth and bones. Other important minerals for dwarf rabbits are zinc and magnesium, which affect the quality of the skin and fur. Zinc deficiency can cause fur loss or skin problems.

Vitamins: It is advisable to include vitamin A in the feed ration to support vision, vitamin D for bone health and vitamin E, which is typical for its antioxidant properties. These vitamins in appropriate amounts are usually already included in feed mixtures.

 

Water

The water should always be clean and safe. The daily water requirement for a dwarf rabbit is approximately 100 ml/1 kg live weight of rabbit. Water is also found in higher quantities in fresh vegetables or green fodder (fresh grass).

 

Feed

As already mentioned, hay should always be the basis of a dwarf rabbit’s diet. Hay should represent 70-80% of the rabbit’s feed ration. Succulent feeds such as green fodder can also be offered in smaller amounts. In addition to hay, rabbits can also be given, for example, grass pellets or feed mixtures. The feed mixture should always be intended specifically for dwarf rabbits and dosed at a daily amount of about 30-60 grams per kilogram of live weight. It is advisable to divide the feed ration into two sub-rations to prevent “overfeeding”. Dwarf rabbits can also be given various treats, but always in moderation due to the risk of obesity. Dried vegetables or various herbal treats are suitable. On the other hand, fruit is a less suitable source of treats as it contains high amounts of sugars.

Of course, it is always important to monitor the overall condition of dwarf rabbits when feeding them and, if necessary, adjust the feed ration to their individual needs.