As pet parents, we tend to be overprotective regarding our beloved pets, especially if it’s a rabbit. Their size and adorableness convince us to think they are the most delicate creatures to walk this earth. And we don’t blame you either. If not complete, that’s still half the truth. Domestic rabbits specifically need a lot of attention and extra care, which we are sure you shower with. Rabbit stomach is usually susceptible to something even slightly off track. Most of the rabbits we keep as pets are grown in such surroundings of comfort and catering. They have little to no experience of being vulnerable to danger, whether through the food they eat or a predator. Therefore, you are rightful in your approach of being vigilant about what’s on the menu for your tiny furball.
What is a fennel?
Are you a new rabbit owner who does not have much knowledge about safe diets? Or did you find your rabbit chewing on fennel and are concerned about its wellbeing? In both cases, we’ve got your back!
Fennel is a plant from the carrot family. It has pretty yellow flowers making it an eye-catching sight. It is rare for fennel to be cooked as a vegetable alone; instead, it is used to add to some foods’ taste. The plant can grow in almost any weather condition; however, it originated from the world’s Mediterranean part. Fennel is known for its uses and medicinal purposes, especially for females. Nonetheless, the question of discussion remains unanswered; can rabbits eat fennel?
Can rabbits eat fennel?
Fennel is direct of no harm to your pet. It does not contain any such toxins which might have you rushing to the vet. Owing to this, your enchanting friend may enjoy the food. However, it should be borne in mind that excess of everything is bad for rabbits, similar to humans if your rabbit has found love in fennel and urges to have it every day. You may have to play the role of a villain. Excess of the Mediterranean plant can cause stomach and other organ issues. It will only remain a healthy vegetable as it is if fed infrequently.
Benefits of eating fennel for your rabbit
First and foremost, if you plan to give your rabbit fennel, make sure you only feed it in a minimal quantity. All rabbits do not have robust immune systems. For example, elderly rabbits or baby rabbits might be more vulnerable to diseases and stomach issues than others. It is always better to be safe than sorry!
To begin with, the fennel contains a high content of dietary fiber. It can prove to be just the herbal medicine you needed for a jumpy fellow who felt a little low due to indigestion. However, we would strongly suggest you consult its doctor before incorporating the vegetable as a cure to indigestion.
If looked upon as a whole, fennel is an incredibly enriching plant, not even for your pet but you too. You can now twine with your bunny once in a blue moon. Each part of the plant contains different nutritional benefits. The most boosting of them all is considered to be the bulb. It includes a significant quantity of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. It is fully capable of refreshing the rabbit inside out. In addition to this, it provides help to the liver in fighting against toxins.
What are the dangers if my rabbit eats fennel in excess?
In most cases, rabbits, over some time, start to develop symptoms of indigestion after having eaten the plant. Some of these symptoms may be.
- Stomach ache
- Lethargies
- Obvious bloating
- Diarrhea
- Gas
If, unfortunately, you notice your rabbit suffering from any of these stated conditions. Contact your vet and narrate the situation to them. Try following the diet plan and restorative measures the doctor has suggested.
We understand the feeling of helplessness that overcomes one when they cannot pull their loved ones out of a bad situation. Having said that, there is not much for you to worry about it. Rabbits take not too long to recover from indigestion or other stomach-related issues. You won’t even know before your bunny will be jumping all around you joyfully.
Are fennel seeds safe for my rabbit?
No. Under no circumstance should the rabbit be allowed to swallow a fennel seed. The seeds have surplus amounts of oils and fats, a big fat no-no for the charming little creature. They can cause the animal to go into obesity and, after that, into further health complexities.
There is also a considerable risk of the rabbit choking on the seeds due to their throat’s compact size. Especially rabbits who are weak or elderly have lesser mouth power. They often than not swallow the seed only for it to get stuck in their trachea. Their inability to throw up also makes it far worse. It is known that a rabbit cannot survive breathing difficulties for an extended period, and the stressful situation might make it worse.
In conclusion, the fennel seeds are bad news, whether they reach the stomach or are stuck at the entrance gates. It is suggested by vets and animal experts to keep your rabbit away from any variations of seeds or whole grains.
Beware of these!
While the fennel itself might not be the culprit behind your rabbit’s discomfort, it has other looks like trying to throw dirt on its name. You must keep your furry cuteness away from these plants. In extreme cases, they might even prove fatal due to their toxic nature towards particular animals. An example of these plants is listed below;
- Giant fennel
- Cicely
- Poison hemlock etc.
We wish you and your rabbit a healthy companionship of one another! We also hope this article is equipped with all the information you might be needing to cater to your rabbit, as we made our best friends. We wish we could keep writing further, whereas time and space confines us. We want you to know wholeheartedly that we are proud of you for doing such a remarkable job as a pet parent. We are sure your pet is unbelievably proud of you too.