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Pineapples are a sweet, juicy fruit that is great on their own, when grilled or when served in a fruit salad.
Did you know that pineapples are not just one fruit, but rather a group of berries fused together?
Fresh pineapples contain vitamins and antioxidants and are a healthy, sweet snack for us humans.
But, can rabbits eat pineapple? Let’s find out in our complete guide to rabbits and pineapple.
can Rabbits Eat Pineapple
Yes, rabbits can eat pineapple! It is very good for them — just like it is for people.
rabbits are not allergic to pineapple, and it’s not toxic or dangerous for them unless they just happen to have a rare allergy.
Is Pineapple Safe for Rabbits?
If you want to give your rabbit some pieces of pineapple, then this should not be a problem as it is safe for rabbits to eat.
However, there are some things that you will need to bear in mind before giving them to your rabbit.
The pineapple should always be cut up into bite-size pieces before your rabbit eats it as this will make it easier for them.
You should only give your rabbit a small amount of pineapple at a time and it should be used as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.
Remember that treats should make up no more than 5% of your rabbit’s diet and this includes fruit such as pineapple, pear, mango, cantaloupe and many others.
The Health Benefits Of Pineapple
Now you know that rabbits can eat pineapples safely.
Therefore, it’s time for you to know the incredible health benefits that pineapples can give your rabbit.
- Helps your rabbit’s digestive system
Bromelain is an enzyme in pineapples. Bromelain helps facilitate the absorption of protein by breaking it down faster inside the rabbit’s digestive system.
It also does the same to other nutrients so your bunny can absorb useful nutrients that can aid in its physical well-being.
Fresh pineapples are the best source of bromelain. Likewise, avoid giving your bunny canned pineapples since they have little or no bromelain.
- Pineapple provides many useful nutrients
This fruit can help a rabbit be physically fit and healthy thanks to the various nutrients in pineapples.
It contains dietary fiber, minerals, fructose and vitamins that aid the rabbit’s digestive process.
These nutrients also bolster their immune system.
More so, it has Vitamins B1, B6, and C along with thiamin. This group effectively produces energy, folate and pantothenic acid for the rabbit’s daily needs.
- Inflammation reduction
Inflammation happens when your rabbit has injuries or wounds. For example, if your rabbit’s leg got hit hard by a solid object, the legs will swell up.
Severe inflammation in rabbits will cause problems like arthritis.
Bromelain along with dietary control, medication, exercise, will lessen the swelling and inflammation in rabbits.
Side Effects: Rabbits and Pineapples
While pineapple may seem like a great snack for your rabbit so far, it’s not without its potential downsides.
In particular, the high levels of natural fructose that are present in pineapple won’t be very healthy for your rabbit if they eat it too often.
Eventually, high sugar intake could lead to obesity and diabetes, so moderation is key whenever you’re exposing your rabbit to sugary foods.
Keep in mind that a rabbit’s digestive system isn’t built for dealing with vast quantities of sugar.
It’s smart to keep the portion sizes relatively small, as too much pineapple could lead to stomach upsets and diarrhea.
In general, it’s best to keep the pineapple to infrequent servings in order to minimize any downsides for your rabbit.
Overall, it’s best to consider it as an occasional treat rather than a regular part of their diet.
Can rabbits Eat Pineapple Dried, Canned?
As it’s already been said, a canned pineapple is not a good idea for rabbits.
While the fruit itself is not the issue, the sugary syrup in which it is preserved is not healthy for rabbits.
However, if you wash off the sugar under running water, you may give a slice or two to your bunny- but only occasionally, and only if they don’t have health issues or a sensitive stomach.
Dehydrated pineapple rings are also a treat you should give rarely, if ever.
Dried fruits have a higher content of sugar than their raw counterparts, and seeing how too much sugar can be problematic for rabbits; it’s best not to risk it.
After all, if you don’t have any fresh pineapple on hand, there are many other rabbit-friendly fruits you can give to your friend companion instead!
Other Fruits And Vegetables Your rabbit Might Enjoy
- Apples
- Blueberries
- Bananas
- Broccoli
- Peaches
- Strawberries
- Tomatoes
Final Thoughts
Pineapple is filled with nutrients and a deliciously sweet flavor that your rabbit might enjoy.
If you decide to share a little with your rabbit, always start slowly to make sure your rabbit can digest it fully.
If your rabbit does react negatively, get your bunny to the vet immediately.
