Yes, rabbits can safely eat celery, and it can be a healthy addition to their diet when offered in moderation. Celery is low in calories and high in water content, making it a refreshing and hydrating treat for rabbits. However, as with any new food, it’s important to introduce celery gradually to ensure it doesn’t cause any digestive upset.

1. Nutritional Benefits of Celery for Rabbits

Celery provides several nutrients that can support a rabbit's overall health:

• Fiber: Celery contains fiber, which is essential for promoting healthy digestion and preventing gastrointestinal issues like GI stasis.
• Water: Since celery has a high water content, it can help keep your rabbit hydrated, which is particularly important if they don't drink enough water on their own.
• Vitamins and Minerals: Celery is a source of vitamins A and C, both of which contribute to a strong immune system. It also contains small amounts of folate, potassium, and calcium, which support various bodily functions.

2. How to Feed Celery to Rabbits

• Wash Thoroughly: Always wash celery thoroughly before feeding it to your rabbit to remove any pesticides or chemicals.
• Cut into Small Pieces: Celery stalks can be tough and fibrous, so it’s best to cut them into small, manageable pieces to make it easier for your rabbit to chew and digest.
• Offer the Leaves: Celery leaves are also safe for rabbits to eat and are rich in nutrients. In fact, many rabbits prefer the leaves over the stalks.
• Moderation: Celery should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet. You can offer small amounts (about one or two small stalks) a few times a week, but it should not replace hay or other primary foods.

3. Why Moderation is Important

Celery is healthy, but overfeeding it can lead to some issues:

• Digestive Upset: Too much celery can cause digestive issues, including diarrhea or bloating, particularly because of its high water content.
• Too Much Fiber: While fiber is essential for rabbits, excessive amounts can lead to soft stools or even diarrhea. It’s important to balance the fiber intake with other vegetables and hay.
• Calcium Content: Although celery is low in calcium compared to other vegetables, it's still important not to feed too much of any high-calcium vegetable to avoid issues like kidney stones or bladder sludge in rabbits, particularly those that are more prone to calcium buildup.

4. What to Pair with Celery

Celery should be part of a balanced, varied diet that includes:

• Hay: The primary food for rabbits should always be hay, such as timothy hay, which provides the fiber necessary for digestion and dental health.
• Leafy Greens: Offer other leafy greens such as parsley, cilantro, romaine lettuce, and dandelion greens to add variety and additional nutrients to your rabbit’s diet.
• Other Vegetables: You can pair celery with other rabbit-safe vegetables like carrot tops, bell peppers, or spinach (in moderation).

5. Signs of Overfeeding Celery

If you feed your rabbit too much celery, you may notice:

• Diarrhea or loose stools
• Bloating or signs of gas
• Reduced appetite for hay and other more important foods

If any of these signs occur, reduce the amount of celery and ensure that your rabbit is consuming plenty of hay and other fiber-rich vegetables.

6. What to Avoid

• Celery in Large Quantities: Too much celery can lead to digestive issues due to its water and fiber content. Stick to offering it in small portions.
• Celery with Leaves and Stems from Older Plants: Older celery stalks may be tougher and harder to digest, so always try to give fresh, tender stalks. Also, ensure the leaves are clean and not wilted or old.

Conclusion

Celery can be a healthy and hydrating treat for rabbits when fed in moderation. It provides fiber, water, and vitamins that support your rabbit's digestive health and hydration. Always introduce celery gradually, wash it thoroughly, and cut it into manageable pieces to avoid choking. Celery should complement your rabbit's diet, which should primarily consist of hay, leafy greens, and a variety of other vegetables. Always monitor your rabbit's health and adjust their diet accordingly.