can bunnies eat paper

Can Bunnies Eat Paper?

Written by: Gemmali Dizor

Rabbit owners often deal with a curious and playful pet that loves to explore and chew on various items. One common question asked is: Can bunnies eat paper? In this article, we’ll look into the rabbit digestive system, potential risks of paper consumption, safe alternatives for your rabbit to chew on, as well as what steps should you take if your bunny eats any paper products. Furthermore, we’ll provide safe alternatives for bunnies to chew on while discussing what steps should be taken if your rabbit consumes paper products.

Can Bunnies Eat Paper?

Although rabbits can chew on paper, it’s not a recommended food source or toy for them. Although paper is made of plant fibers, it doesn’t offer the same nutritional benefits as hay, vegetables, or other rabbit-appropriate foods.

The Rabbit Digestive System

Understanding the rabbit digestive system can help you understand why paper may not be the ideal item for your bunny to chew on.

The Importance of Fiber

Rabbits require a high-fiber diet to support their digestive system. Most of their food should consist of hay, which is packed with fiber and helps promote proper digestion and gut motility.

The Rabbit’s Cecum

The cecum is an essential organ of the rabbit’s digestive system. This pouch-like organ breaks down fibrous plant material into nutrients that can be absorbed by the body. Consuming paper, which lacks nutritional value, may interfere with this function and lead to digestive issues.

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Why Rabbits May Be Attracted to Paper

Rabbits are insatiable chewers, and their teeth continuously develop throughout their lives. To maintain their dental health and prevent overgrowth, they chew on various items to wear down their teeth. Some rabbits may be attracted to paper as a potential chewing material.

Potential Hazards of Consuming Paper Products

Paper products have the potential to pose various hazards when eaten.

Chewing on paper can present several risks to your rabbit’s health:

Chemicals and Inks

Most papers are treated with chemicals and may contain inks which could be hazardous if ingested by your rabbit.

Choking Hazards

Swallowing paper can lead to choking or an obstruction in the digestive system.

Blockages

Consuming excessive paper products can cause blockages in the intestines, which could prove fatal if not addressed promptly.

What to Feed Your Rabbit

So now you know what kind of food your rabbit should eat!

For your rabbit’s health, provide them with a balanced diet consisting of:

Hay

Hay should make up 70-80% of your rabbit’s diet. It helps with digestion and dental health; offer various kinds of hay like Timothy, orchard or oat hay to give them a variety of flavors and textures.

Vegetables

Fresh vegetables should be given daily, making up 10-15% of your rabbit’s diet. Leafy greens like romaine lettuce, kale, and collard greens are ideal choices; introduce new veggies gradually for digestive comfort.

Pellets

Rabbit pellets should only be fed occasionally, making up around 5% of your rabbit’s diet. Select premium quality hay-based pellets that are low in sugar and high in fiber for optimal nutritional benefits.

Water

Make sure your rabbit always has access to fresh, clean water at all times. Be sure to check and refill their dish or bottle daily.

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Safe Alternatives to Paper for Bunnies to Chew On

Instead of paper, offer your rabbit some safe chewing alternatives:

Untreated wood or branches from rabbit-safe trees such as apple or willow

Cardboard boxes or paper towel rolls without any ink, glue or tape

Rabbit-safe toys made of natural materials like sisal, seagrass or untreated wood

Signs of Digestive Issues in Rabbits

Monitor your rabbit for any signs of digestive distress, which could indicate they’ve consumed something hazardous or are experiencing a blockage:

  • Loss of Appetite
  • Lethargy or Weakness
  • Diarrhea or Constipation
  • Abnormal Fecal Output
  • Hunching or Showing Signs of Pain

What To Do If Your Rabbit Eats Paper

If your rabbit accidentally consumes some paper, watch closely for any indications of digestive distress or discomfort. If they appear to have consumed an unusually large amount of paper, contact your veterinarian right away.

Conclusion

Rabbits may be attracted to paper, but it’s not a suitable food source or toy for them. Instead, provide your bunny with a balanced diet and safe chewing alternatives for their health and happiness. Be sure to watch for signs of digestive issues in your rabbit and contact your veterinarian if needed.

FAQs

Is it normal for rabbits to chew on things like paper?

Absolutely, rabbits are naturally teethers and need to use their teeth as tools to grind down any newly developed teeth. This activity helps ensure their growing mouths remain clean and healthy at all times.

What Should I Do if I Catch My Rabbit Chewing On Paper?

Gently remove the paper from their reach and replace it with a safer chewing alternative.

Can rabbits eat newspaper?

While small amounts of newspaper may not be harmful, it’s best to steer them away from it due to the chemicals and inks present.

How can I prevent my rabbit from chewing on paper?

Provide safe alternatives and keep paper out of reach. Create a stimulating environment with plenty of toys for your rabbit to keep them occupied.

What if my rabbit only chews paper and doesn’t eat it?

Chewing on paper without ingestion is less of a concern, but still provides opportunities for potential exposure to harmful chemicals or inks.

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