There are many potential upsides to giving pets treats - it can help the bond between animal lovers and their pets, can promote good behavior, aid in training and potentially help with dental or nutritional support. There are so many dog and cat treats on the market, but what treats are safe for rabbits? Our experts at the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center (APCC) can help you decide!

They eat veggies, what else is there to know?

Yes, rabbits are herbivores which means their diet primarily consists of plants, but being an herbivore is more complex than it seems, and understanding how a rabbit's digestive system functions can help you determine which treats are best.

Herbivores possess several unique adaptations that enable them to efficiently consume plants. These include specialized teeth designed for grinding tough plant material, longer digestive tracts that enhance nutrient absorption and a symbiotic relationship with gut microorganisms that help break down cellulose in plant matter.

However, not every herbivore is the same. Cows, sheep and goats are ruminants which means they have four stomachs to help them digest their food. Rabbits and horses, on the other hand, are hindgut fermenters, meaning they have only one stomach, but they have a large cecum (a pouch-like organ) and a longer colon which helps them digest plant material.

To keep rabbits (and their digestive tract) healthy, their diet should be high in fiber, particularly fiber from high-quality grass hay. They can also have small amounts of leafy greens, vegetables and occasionally fruit.

What makes a good treat for rabbits?

Fresh fruits like apples, bananas, blueberries, strawberries, oranges, peaches and pears are excellent treats. Dried fruit may work as well for treats but do remember to check labels for any added sugar. If you find there is added sugar, keep looking for a better option for your rabbit.

Fresh vegetables such as asparagus, bell pepper, Brussels sprouts, cucumbers, green beans and zucchini can also work well as a treat. Many rabbits enjoy leafy greens like arugula, basil, cabbage, cilantro, kale, parsley and romaine lettuce.

If you are looking for something that may stick around a little longer, there are several commercial brands of baked grass hay treats for rabbits that work as well and help contribute to that high-fiber diet that rabbits need.

When giving your rabbit a treat, make sure the fruits and vegetables are cut into bite-size pieces and all pits and seeds are first removed before giving it to your rabbit. It's also important to go slow when introducing new foods or treats as a rabbit's digestive tract can be sensitive.

Lastly, remember that rabbits, just like humans, may overindulge, so only place out the amount you intend your rabbit to eat as a treat. Aim for not more than 5% of their daily allotted calories.

Happy snacking!

If you have any reason to suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, please contact your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center's 24-hour hotline at (888) 426-4435.