Feeding baby rabbits, especially those that are orphaned or not yet weaned, requires careful attention to ensure they get the proper nutrition. Baby rabbits, or kits, have very specific dietary needs at different stages of their development. Here's a guide to what you should feed baby rabbits, depending on their age and situation.

1. Newborn to 3 Weeks Old: Mother's Milk

• Mother’s Milk: The best food for a newborn rabbit is its mother's milk. Rabbit milk is very rich in fat and protein, providing the necessary nutrients for rapid growth and development. Baby rabbits are typically nursed for about 3-4 weeks by their mothers.
• Frequency of Feeding: Wild rabbit mothers usually nurse their babies only once or twice a day, often during the early morning and late evening. They do not stay with their babies during the day, so it's important not to disturb them unnecessarily.

If You Find an Orphaned Baby Rabbit

• If the baby rabbit is orphaned, you cannot give it regular cow’s milk as it is unsuitable and can cause digestive issues. Instead, you should use a specialized rabbit milk formula.
  • Kitten Milk Replacement (KMR): In an emergency, you can feed the baby a kitten milk replacement formula (not cow's milk), as it's designed to mimic the nutrients in mother’s milk. However, rabbit milk is richer than cat milk, so kitten formula is a temporary solution.
  • Rabbit Milk Formula: The best option is to use a rabbit-specific milk formula, which is available at pet stores or from veterinary clinics. Brands like Oxbow or Kaytee offer rabbit milk replacers specifically for baby rabbits.
• Feeding Schedule for Orphaned Kits:
  • Baby rabbits under 1 week old may need to be fed every 2-3 hours, including during the night.
  • At 2-3 weeks old, the frequency of feedings can be reduced to every 4-6 hours.
  • At 3-4 weeks old, baby rabbits can begin transitioning to solid food, but should still be supplemented with formula.

2. 3 to 6 Weeks Old: Gradual Introduction to Solid Food

Around 3 weeks old, baby rabbits begin transitioning from milk to solid foods. This is when they start to chew and nibble on different types of food.

Solid Foods for Baby Rabbits

• Hay: Hay should be introduced early and is an essential part of their diet. Timothy hay is the most commonly recommended for baby rabbits as it is high in fiber, which supports healthy digestion. You can offer it free choice, meaning there should always be hay available for the babies to munch on.

• Fresh Vegetables: Introduce small amounts of fresh greens and vegetables at this stage. Offer safe, non-toxic leafy greens like:

  • Dandelion greens
  • Cilantro
  • Parsley
  • Spinach (in moderation)
  • Romaine lettuce (avoid iceberg lettuce as it has little nutritional value)

  Gradually introduce a variety of greens, but be careful not to overwhelm their small digestive systems. Start with small amounts to avoid causing digestive upset.

• Pellets: If the baby rabbit is ready to transition, you can start offering young rabbit pellets designed for baby bunnies. These should be high in fiber and low in protein and calcium. Timothy hay-based pellets are a good option.

3. 6 Weeks and Older: Full Diet of Hay, Vegetables, and Pellets

By 6 weeks old, baby rabbits are weaned and should be eating a full diet of solid foods. This includes:

Hay

• Continue providing unlimited access to high-quality timothy hay or other grass hays. Hay remains the most important part of a rabbit's diet throughout their life, as it helps maintain digestive health and keeps their teeth properly worn down.

Fresh Vegetables

• You can offer more variety in fresh vegetables, including:
  • Carrot tops
  • Basil
  • Cabbage (small amounts)
  • Bell peppers
  • Zucchini
• Introduce new vegetables slowly to avoid upsetting their digestive system. Keep track of any changes in their stool and stop offering any foods that seem to cause issues.

Pellets

• You can continue offering pellets designed for rabbits, but make sure they are high in fiber and low in protein and calcium to prevent health issues. Pellets should not make up more than 20-25% of their diet, as hay and fresh vegetables should be the main focus.

4. Water

• Fresh Water: Always provide fresh water for baby rabbits. It’s crucial to keep them hydrated, especially when transitioning to a solid food diet. Offer water in a clean bowl, not just a bottle, to ensure they can easily drink.

5. What to Avoid Feeding Baby Rabbits

Some foods should be avoided for baby rabbits, as they can cause digestive problems or even toxicity. These include:

• High-sugar fruits: While adult rabbits can eat fruit in moderation, baby rabbits should not be fed sugary fruits like apples, grapes, or bananas at an early age.
• Cabbage and Broccoli (in large amounts): While cabbage and broccoli are safe in small amounts, too much can cause bloating and gas.
• Iceberg Lettuce: This type of lettuce has very little nutritional value and can cause digestive upset.
• Yogurt Drops or Processed Treats: These are not suitable for rabbits and can lead to obesity and other health issues.

6. Signs of Healthy Eating

A baby rabbit is thriving if:

• It is active and alert, with a good appetite.
• It is gaining weight steadily.
• Its fur is soft and clean.
• Its stool is firm and well-formed (not too soft or watery).

If the baby rabbit is not eating, showing signs of lethargy, or has abnormal stool, it’s important to seek veterinary advice promptly. They may need specialized care or feeding support.

Conclusion

Feeding baby rabbits requires special attention to their age and nutritional needs. For the first 3-4 weeks, mother’s milk (or a rabbit-specific formula) is essential. As they begin weaning, you can gradually introduce hay, vegetables, and pellets. Always ensure they have access to fresh water and avoid harmful foods. By providing the right diet and care, you can help a baby rabbit grow into a healthy, happy adult. If you are unsure about any aspect of feeding a baby rabbit, consulting with a veterinarian who specializes in rabbits is always a good idea.