We may earn compensation from some providers below. Learn More
Want to see cute rabbit videos or tutorials? 
One common question among rabbit owners is, “Can bunnies eat cilantro?” It’s a good question and one that deserves a detailed answer. In this article, we delve into rabbit dietetics, exploring the potential benefits and drawbacks of feeding cilantro to our bunnies.
Yes, bunnies can eat cilantro. This herb, also known as coriander, is safe for rabbits and can be a great addition to their diet. However, it’s crucial to remember that fresh food, including cilantro, should only supplement a rabbit’s diet and not replace the essentials – hay, water, and a small number of specialized rabbit pellets.
Cilantro is packed with nutritional value that can greatly benefit your rabbit. It’s rich in vitamins A, C, and K, essential for a rabbit’s immune system, vision, and blood clotting. Moreover, it has anti-inflammatory properties that may contribute to your bunny’s overall well-being.
| Nutrient | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 0.9 | – |
| Total Fat | 0g | 0% |
| Sodium | 1.8mg | 0% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 0.2g | 0% |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.1g | 0% |
| Sugar | 0g | – |
| Protein | 0.1g | 0% |
| Vitamin D | 0mcg | 0% |
| Calcium | 2.7mg | 0% |
| Iron | 0.1mg | 1% |
| Potassium | 21mg | 0% |
| Vitamin A, RAE | 13.48 mcg | 1% |
| Vitamin C [Ascorbic acid] | 1.1 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol) | 0.10 mg | 1% |
| Vitamin K | 12.4 mcg | 10% |
| Choline | 0.5 mg | 0% |
| Copper | 0.01 mg | 1% |
| Magnesium | 1.04 mg | 0% |
| Manganese | 0.017 mg | 1% |
| Phosphorus | 1.92 mg | 0% |
| Selenium | 0.04 mcg | 0% |
| Zinc | 0.02 mg | 0% |
Before feeding your rabbit cilantro, ensure it is thoroughly washed to remove any harmful pesticides or dirt. Also, any slimy or brown leaves should be discarded as they can upset your rabbit’s digestive system.
We recommend chopping up cilantro and sprinkling it in with other vegetables, our rabbit likes it whilst it’s still cold & wet from being washed, but this may vary from rabbit to rabbit.
While cilantro benefits your bunny, it should be given in moderation. Too much of anything, even a good thing, can be harmful. Experts recommend that fresh foods, including cilantro, make up no more than 10% of a rabbit’s diet.
Like any new food, cilantro should be introduced gradually into your bunny’s diet. Overconsumption could lead to digestive problems such as diarrhea. Always monitor your bunny’s behavior and stool consistency after feeding them cilantro.
Baby rabbits, or kits, have different dietary requirements than adult rabbits. They can start sampling a very tiny amount of cilantro and other fresh foods from around 12 weeks of age. However, milk from their mother will be their primary food source until they are weaned.
Besides cilantro, rabbits can safely consume herbs and vegetables such as basil, mint, parsley, bell peppers, carrot tops, and romaine lettuce. Each of these foods has unique nutritional benefits and can contribute to a balanced diet for your bunny.
While cilantro and coriander are often used interchangeably, they refer to different parts of the same plant. Both cilantro (the leafy part) and coriander (the seeds) are safe to eat for rabbits. However, cilantro is typically more palatable for them.
Yes, you do not need to remove stems from the coriander. Your rabbit can eat them as they are from a supermarket if you wash them before giving them to your rabbit.
However, you should not give your rabbit the cilantro roots.
In conclusion, bunnies can indeed eat cilantro. It’s safe and provides numerous health benefits when incorporated into their diet. However, moderation and variety are key when feeding your rabbit.
By entering your email address you agree to receive emails from Cottontailclub. We'll respect your privacy and you can unsubscribe at any time.
