Can Rabbits Eat Broccoli?

They sure can—just don’t toss them a whole stalk. Rabbits can enjoy broccoli florets, stems, and leaves, but the leaves are usually the easiest on their sensitive stomachs. Too much of the tougher parts (like stalks) can cause gas, which can be uncomfortable for your rabbit. 

Stick to raw broccoli only. Cooked veggies might seem softer, but they lose some of the nutrients that make them worthwhile in the first place. 

It can be! When given sparingly, broccoli has some perks that can benefit your bunny: 

• Rich in vitamin C, which supports immune function  
• Contains fiber, which helps support healthy digestion 
• Includes antioxidants that may help protect cells from damage  

Yes, broccoli can be a little tricky if your rabbit eats too much. While it’s packed with nutrients, overdoing it can lead to some tummy troubles. Here’s what to watch for: 

• Gas and bloating, especially from the stalks and florets 
• Diarrhea or soft stools 
• Reduced appetite or signs of discomfort 

Start with a small piece and see how your rabbit reacts. If they’re doing well, you can offer it occasionally—but stick to the leafy parts, which tend to be easier on their digestion. 

An appropriate serving of broccoli for an average adult rabbit is 1 tablespoon, two to three times per week. 

Broccoli should be considered a treat, not a staple food. It should make up no more than 2% of your rabbit’s daily diet, which should be primarily:  

• 80% hay and grass  

• 10–15% fresh fruits and vegetables  
• 2% treats (including broccoli)   

• The remainder from high-quality pellets  

Here’s how to turn broccoli into a bunny-safe snack: 

• Give it a good rinse: Pesticides and bunnies don’t mix. Wash thoroughly to keep their digestion on track. 
• Go for organic if you can: It’s a safer bet for your bunny’s delicate digestion. 
• Skip the thick stems: They’re harder to chew and more likely to cause tummy trouble. 
• Make it munchable: Chop into bunny-size bites to avoid choking and make snack time smooth. 
• Start slow: A leaf or two is plenty for the first taste test—see how your bunny feels about it. 
• Keep an eye out: If your bunny seems bloated, tired, or skips their snacks, it’s time to hit pause and check in with your vet. 

Did your bunny get into the veggie drawer? Too much broccoli can make them uncomfortable. Watch for these signs: 

• Bloating 
• Lethargy 
• Reduced appetite  
• Tiny or no poops  
• Unusual gurgling or stomach sounds 

If you notice any of this, it’s time to call your vet. Until then, offer unlimited hay and remove any other treats from their diet. Your vet may suggest a treatment plan to get things moving again and rule out more serious issues like gastrointestinal (GI) stasis.  

Broccoli isn’t the only veggie in the game! Mix things up by offering your bunny a variety of rabbit-safe vegetables as part of their balanced diet. Here are some tasty picks to try (in moderation, of course):  

• Bell peppers (remove the seeds) 
• Bok choy 
• Cabbage 
• Carrots  
• Celery 
• Cilantro, parsley, basil, mint 
• Cucumber 
• Kale, mustard greens, dandelion greens (feed sparingly, as these can cause gas or calcium buildup) 
• Romaine lettuce (avoid iceberg) 
• Zucchini 

Always introduce new vegetables one at a time, and monitor your rabbit for changes in digestion or behavior. 

You can also give your bunny store-bought rabbit treats that feature veggies, like: 

Can baby rabbits eat broccoli? 

Baby rabbits should not eat broccoli. Their digestive systems are still developing and are more sensitive to gas-producing vegetables.  

Can rabbits eat raw broccoli? 

Yes, rabbits should only eat raw broccoli. Cooked vegetables lose nutrients and may upset their stomach. 

Can rabbits eat broccoli stalks? 

Yes, rabbits can eat broccoli stalks, but they’re more likely to cause gas. Offer small pieces and watch for signs of bloating, like a swollen belly, reduced appetite, or less poop than usual. 

Can rabbits eat broccoli leaves? 

Yes, broccoli leaves are generally safer and better tolerated than stalks or florets.