Can Rabbits Eat Pineapple?

Pineapple is a sweet and tasty treat that most rabbits love, but can it upset their sensitive stomachs? If you’ve ever wondered if it’s safe to feed pineapple to your bunny, you’re not alone! While pineapple contains beneficial vitamins and minerals, too much of its sugary juice and flesh can lead to gastrointestinal trouble. In this article, we’ll discuss how much pineapple rabbits can safely eat, signs of stomach upset to watch for, what to feed if pineapple bothers their digestion, and the best foods for an upset rabbit tummy. Whether your rabbit can’t get enough of pineapple’s sweet tang or it gives them tummy trouble, read on to learn the juicy details!

How Often ; How Much Can Rabbits Eat Pineapple?

Pineapple can be fed to rabbits in moderation as an occasional treat. It should not make up more than 5-10% of their overall diet. Adult rabbits can have a few small pieces of fresh pineapple 1-2 times per week. Avoid feeding the core or rind which are harder to digest. The flesh and juice contain valuable nutrients but too much natural sugar can cause GI upset. A few tablespoons or about 1-2 oz is a good portion size for an average sized adult rabbit. Very small or young rabbits should be given less.

How Can You Tell if Pineapple is Bothering Your Rabbit’s Stomach?

Signs that pineapple may be causing stomach upset in your rabbit include soft or runny stool, lack of stool, loud gurgling or rumbling stomach noises, less appetite, or lethargy after eating it. Gas pain from pineapple may also cause a bloated or enlarged belly. Your rabbit may pass excess gas, burp, or grind their teeth indicating discomfort. If you notice any of these signs after feeding pineapple, discontinue it and call your vet if symptoms persist more than 12 hours.

What Can I Give My Rabbit if They Struggle to Digest Pineapple?

If your rabbit has difficulty digesting the natural sugars found in pineapple, there are some things you can give to help soothe their stomach:

• Probiotics can help restore digestive balance and gut flora
• Simethicone anti-gas drops may relieve bloating and gas pain
• Papaya contains digestive enzymes that aid digestion
• Fennel, mint, chamomile, or ginger can help settle an upset tummy
• Plain hydrating electrolytes without sugar or xylitol

Avoid dairy products as most rabbits are lactose intolerant. Call your vet if your rabbit stops eating, seems in pain, or has ongoing diarrhea.

What Food Should You Feed a Rabbit With an Upset Stomach?

When a rabbit has an upset stomach, it's best to stick to a bland diet for a day or two. Recommended foods include:

• Timothy or grass hay – Provides fiber for healthy motility
• Some leafy greens like romaine lettuce or spring mix – Easy to digest
• Oatmeal or rice baby cereal – Contains probiotics and prebiotics
• Probiotic supplements – Help restore gut flora balance

Avoid any fruits, vegetables, treats or pellets that may be too high in sugars, carbs or fats. Restricting treats will give the GI tract a rest. Make sure your rabbit stays hydrated by encouraging them to drink water. Call your vet if symptoms don't improve within 48 hours.

References:

https://rabbitbreeders.us/questions-and-answers/can-rabbits-eat-pineapple/
https://www.onlinerabbitcare.com/questions-and-answers/can-rabbits-eat-pineapple/