Edible Flowers for Rabbits
Edible Flowers for Rabbits. Rabbits are plant-eating animals, otherwise known as herbivores. In the wild they eat from a large variety of plants to get the range of nutrients they need. Domesticated or pet rabbits can also enjoy a variety of plants and flowers, but it's a good idea to introduce any new flowers gradually to avoid upsetting your...
Rabbits are plant-eating animals, otherwise known as herbivores. In the wild they eat from a large variety of plants to get the range of nutrients they need. Domesticated or pet rabbits can also enjoy a variety of plants and flowers, but it's a good idea to introduce any new flowers gradually to avoid upsetting your pet's delicate digestive system.
Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are bright flowers that are safe for both humans and rabbits -- in fact, both the flower petals and the leaves are edible. According to the website Sally's Place, nasturtiums are durable and easy to grow. Colors include bright orange and bright yellow as well as Peach Melba, which is white with a red accent, Empress of India, which is vermilion, and Whirlybird, which is salmon, tangerine, cherry or mahogany. If you wish to grow nasturtiums for your rabbit, you can do so in your outdoor garden or in a window sill.
Dandelions
While they may be the bane of a gardener's existence, dandelion leaves are a real treat for rabbits and are edible for humans, too. You should note to be careful where you pick your dandelions from, however. If they have been treated with pesticide or poison or are from a roadside and therefore exposed to car exhaust, they can make your rabbit sick. If you do not have a yard or access to outdoor dandelions, they are simple enough to grow in a pot indoors. A 6-inch flower pot typically holds one full-grown dandelion plant.
Marigolds
Some people believe marigolds repel rabbits, but Iowa State University notes rabbits are drawn to marigold flowers. Rabbits enjoy them thanks to their woody stems as well as their blossoms. You can grow marigolds in your outdoor flower garden during late summer and fall or indoors all year round.
Flowers to Avoid
It's important to note flowers you should not feed your rabbit. For example, begonias, chrysanthemums, carnations, geraniums and poppies are all poisonous to rabbits. If you allow your rabbit to roam in your garden and you have any of these varieties, keep a close watch or consider removing the plants. If your rabbit eats one of these flowers it can become ill and even die.
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