05/24/2026
If you’ve been following along, you know we don’t just toss pellets in and call it a day around here. Our rabbits get the real stuff, and this video shows exactly what that looks like. Make sure to watch it all so you can see me feed our baby bunnies. 🐰🥰 watching them eat is my favorite 🤩
Our mama rabbits stay with their litters until 5 to 6 weeks old, and that time together is about so much more than nursing.
When I bring in fresh greens for mama, the babies watch her. They sniff what she sniffs, they nibble what she nibbles. By around 3 weeks old, those tiny babies are already mimicking her and starting to taste what she’s eating.
That early exposure is everything. It sets them up to recognize safe, nutritious foods from the very beginning of their lives. So what am I actually feeding them? Let me break it down.
Broad Leaf Plantain is one of my absolute staples. It’s anti-inflammatory, supports the gut, and is especially soothing for digestive upset. Rabbits love it and their bodies do too.
Dandelion (leaves and flowers) is the green I feed most often. I give bundles of it multiple times a day because it’s that good. It supports kidney function, acts as a gentle diuretic, supports liver health, and is packed with vitamins A, C, and K. Nothing goes to waste in a dandelion plant.
Clover (leaves and flowers) is high in protein and a natural source of isoflavones. It supports overall health and rabbits are naturally drawn to it.
Basil is antimicrobial and a good source of antioxidants. It also supports respiratory health, which matters a lot in a rabbitry.
Thyme is one I love for its antimicrobial and antifungal properties. It supports the immune system and is a gentle but effective herb.
Parsley is rich in vitamin C, folate, and antioxidants. It supports urinary health and is great for nursing mamas who need extra nutrients.
Kale is nutrient-dense, high in calcium and vitamins, and fed in moderation as part of a varied diet it’s a great addition.
Cabbage Leaves are hydrating, high in vitamin C, and support digestion. I rotate these in as part of variety.
Broccoli Leaves (not the florets in large amounts) are loaded with vitamins and minerals and are gentler on the digestive system than the heads.
Wood Sorrel has a bright, lemony flavor rabbits enjoy. It contains vitamin C and has mild antibacterial properties.
Oregano is one of the most powerful antimicrobial herbs I grow. It supports gut health and the immune system and is a favorite in our rabbitry.
Sage supports digestion and has antimicrobial properties. I use it in rotation as part of the herbal variety I offer.
Dill is calming for the digestive system, supports milk production in nursing mamas, and is rich in antioxidants. A really good one for a nursing doe.
Strawberries and Strawberry Leaves are a treat the babies go absolutely wild for. The leaves are high in antioxidants and tannins that support gut health. The fruit is a natural source of vitamin C. Fed in moderation, they’re a wonderful addition.
Variety is the key. No single plant does everything, but together this mix gives our rabbits a broad spectrum of nutrients, immune support, digestive health, and the kind of foraging experience their bodies were designed for. Fresh greens every day. Handfuls of dandelion several times a day. Happy, healthy rabbits.
That’s how we do it at The Backyard Pantry.
Tag or save this if you want to try it with your own rabbits!
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