Can Rabbits Eat Peanuts?

Can Rabbits Eat Peanuts?

This page contains affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post through our independently chosen links, which earn us a commission. Learn More

Peanuts and peanut butter are high-protein foods that many people enjoy. While most of us know that we should avoid varieties with a lot of additives and sugar, all natural peanuts and peanut butter can be a healthy addition to our diet.

The question is can rabbits have peanuts?

It’s no surprise that you’re curious about whether it’s okay to give peanuts to rabbits. This is a question we hear all the time – and we are here with all the answers you’ve been looking for!

Just in case you’re in a hurry, here’s the short, sweet version: It’s not a good idea to give peanuts to rabbits – in fact, this treat can cause more harm than good.

Peanuts Nutrition Stats

Good news: Peanuts are a portable source of protein, plant-based fat, and fiber – all essential for you, even though you can’t share with your rabbit.

A ¼ cup serving of dry roasted peanuts offers approximately:

• 165 calories
• 6 g carbohydrates
• 2 g fiber
• 9 g fat
• 6 g protein

Peanut Nutritional Facts

Here’s a fun fact: Peanuts are legumes, just like peas and beans. They’re not even remotely related to nuts that grow on trees! Just like other legumes, peanuts pack a powerful nutritional punch.

That same ¼ cup serving of dry roasted peanuts gives you about:

• 184 mg potassium
• 1 mg calcium
• 3 mg magnesium
• 6 mg iron
• 100 mg phosphorus
• 6 mcg folate
• 9 mg vitamin E
• 8 mg phosphorus
• 5 mg choline
• 6 mg manganese

Can Rabbits Have Peanuts?

Even though some sources say that rabbits can have peanuts, we are firmly against it.

Here’s why:

Peanuts are high in fat plus they contain quite a bit of calcium, which can cause long-term problems for your rabbit.

A rabbit’s digestive system isn’t designed to handle large quantities of fat. Instead, rabbits need to follow a strict diet that consists mostly of fresh hay, rabbit food, and fresh vegetables.

Small amounts of treats are fine for rabbits but peanuts and most other legumes really shouldn’t be on their menu.

Are Peanuts Good For Rabbits?

No – peanuts are not good for rabbits. Even though peanuts are nutritious, they are suitable for bunnies.

Is Peanut Butter Good For Rabbits?

No! Absolutely not – peanut butter often contains added sugar and extra fat. Peanut butter can make your rabbit very sick.

Do Rabbits Like Peanuts?

Yes – most rabbits like peanuts and will happily eat them. Unfortunately, this has led to the misconception that peanuts make good rabbit treats.

Think of it this way: Where your rabbit is concerned, peanuts are basically junk food. A single peanut might not harm your rabbit, but there are far better choices out there.

How Many Peanuts Can A Rabbit Eat?

We’re serious when we say rabbits shouldn’t eat peanuts at all.

Here’s how much peanuts a to feed your rabbit:

How Often Can A Rabbit Eat Peanuts?

Lots of people ask this question so we feel it’s important to provide an answer.

We’re pretty sure you can guess what it will be: Never! Peanuts put your rabbit’s health at risk and there are plenty of other great foods out there that your bunny will enjoy  just as much as peanuts – or maybe even more!

The Correct Diet Is Important

Since peanuts aren’t on the menu, what should your rabbit be eating instead?

As it turns out pet rabbits have the same digestive system as their wild cousins. Your rabbit will thrive on a diet that consists mostly of fresh hay.

The long fibers in the hay keep your rabbit’s digestive system moving along and prevent a deadly condition known as G.I. stasis.

Here’s what to feed your rabbit for good health:

• Rabbit food – Choose a nutritionally complete rabbit food and check the lable to make sure that your bunny gets the right amount.
• Approximately one tablespoon of seeds unless they’re already blended into your rabbit’s food. Pumpkin seeds, pepitas, and sunflower seeds (all without added salt) are good choices.
• Rabbit hay – Even though your little friend can survive on high-fiber rabbit pellets, they’ll appreciate fresh rabbit hay, and this really should be available 24/7. It goes a long way toward preventing stress and boredom, plus it helps keep your rabbit’s teeth in good condition.
• “Bunny salad” – About one cup of leafy green veggies per two pounds of body weight, plus a few crunchy veggies.
• All-natural treats including colorful vegetables and just a little bit of fruit. Offer only a small amount of fruit – no more than about a teaspoon of fruit per two pounds of your rabbit’s body weight. Try to give your rabbit plenty of variety all throughout the week.

Healthy food is just the beginning. Remember to keep your rabbit’s drinking bottle topped up with fresh clean water and to give it a daily rinse.

In addition, you’ll need to look after your rabbit’s dental health. Don’t worry – you don’t have to brush your rabbit’s teeth. All you need to do is make sure that your bunny always has something to chew on.

Hay cubes, coconut shells, and untreated softwood sticks from trees such as apple and pear are ideal. Since your rabbit’s teeth are always growing, these items are essential for preventing overgrowth.

What Are Other Healthy Alternatives To Peanuts In A Rabbit’s Diet?

There’s no reason to risk your rabbit’s health by feeding them peanuts or peanut butter.

Here’s a list of healthy things to try instead:

• basil
• beets
• beet tops
• romaine
• kale
• basil
• butter lettuce
• rocket
• spinach
• endive
• escarole
• swiss chard
• buttercrunch lettuce
• arugula
• celery
• cucumber
• parsnip
• tomato
• bibb lettuce
• green beans (but not dried beans)
• pumpkin
• summer squash
• winter squash
• zucchini
• watercress
• bell pepper
• broccoli
• broccolini

Believe it or not, the items on this list are just the tip of the iceberg! There are lots of other healthy, natural vegetables, fruits, and herbs rabbits enjoy.

For now, why not try treating your rabbit to a little slice of cucumber or one of the other veggies on this list? They’ll be happy – and safe!

Aren’t you glad you took a moment to check into peanuts for rabbits?

Spending a few minutes researching each new food you plan to offer your bunny can save lots of trouble and help keep your pet as healthy as possible.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are peanuts safe for rabbits?

No – peanuts can give your rabbit a serious case of indigestion. It's best not to give peanuts to rabbits.

Can peanuts make my rabbit sick?

Yes – peanuts can make your rabbit very sick. Besides leading to indigestion, diarrhea, gas, and painful bloating, peanuts can cause a condition called GI stasis, which can be deadly. It's never a good idea to give a rabbit peanuts.

Can my rabbit eat peanut butter?

Even though your rabbit might like the taste of peanut butter, this is a food that's best reserved for you and your family. Peanut butter contains high levels of sugar and fats – and your rabbits digestive system can't handle either of these. Never give a rabbit peanut butter.