Rabbits are known for their adorable eating habits.
As it turns out, these buck-toothed animals actually have a sweet tooth too! But does that mean we can offer them any kind of sugary fruit?
Can Rabbits Eat Tangerines?
Yes, giving your rabbit tangerines as an occasional treat is a great idea!
Rabbits have a strong desire to munch and chew on things.
This is due to a combination of their anatomy and biological structure, which allows them to digest their food rapidly.
However, eating the same food every single day is bound to make you bored!
Some moody rabbits will refuse to eat any more hay or leafy greens if you don’t sweeten up their palate immediately.
While extra sugar can be bad for rabbits, fruits like tangerines are a comparatively healthy option to feed your rabbit every once in a while.
Packed with vitamins, antioxidants, and other nutrients, tangerines add a bit of sour-sweetness to your rabbit’s diet while also aiding their digestive system.
However, beware that too much of a good thing can have the opposite effect!
So, if you’re planning to feed tangerines to your bunny, make sure to only give them small portions of this tangy fruit.
Also read: Can Rabbits Eat Strawberries?
Benefits of Tangerines for Rabbits
Tangerines are packed with vitamins and other minerals that can be quite healthy for your rabbits if consumed in moderation.
Let’s take a look at some of the main nutrients of this fruit.
Vitamin C
If you want to improve your bunny’s immune system, including Vitamin C in their diet is the way to go.
While some leaves are also rich in Vitamin C, giving your rabbit fruits like tangerines with equally balanced nutrients will ensure that your rabbit is happy with the variety of its meals.
Vitamin C is also a great source for strengthening bones and joints, a much-needed feature for your restless bunnies who love jumping around.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A has strong antioxidants properties that quickly and efficiently heal cell damage.
For rabbits that often get minor scratches and other injuries, having Vitamin A in their diet will ensure that their recovery process goes smoothly.
Anti-inflammatory Flavonoids
Most citrus food contains flavonoids that can help improve strength while also promoting blood flow throughout the bunny’s body.
Digestion Booster
Fruits are a great source of fibers, and tangerines are no exception.
With about 65 to 70 percent of fiber nutrients, tangerines make for a great sweet treat that can also aid the digestive system of your food-loving rabbit.
How Many Tangerines Can You Feed Your Rabbit?
The amount of tangerine you can feed your rabbit depends on its age and species.
As a general rule, you can give 1 to 2 teaspoons of fruit per every 5 pounds of body weight of your bunny.
But considering the tangerine’s high acidic content, going for even a smaller portion will be a safer option.
How Often Can You Give Tangerines to Your Rabbit?
Feeding your rabbit tangerines once or twice a week should be enough for adding variety to their diet.
Unlike humans, rabbits don’t need fruits in their daily diet, and making them get too used to it can have dire consequences.
Health Risks of Feeding Too Many Tangerines
Excessive sugar can upset your bunny’s tummy and cause health problems like diarrhea, slowed digestion, or cardiovascular diseases.
Once your rabbit gets a taste of the tangy-sweetness of tangerines, it will refuse to stop.
Despite their tantrum and adorable puppy eyes, as a responsible pet parent, you’ll have to limit their intake of sugary fruits.
Can Your Rabbit Drink Tangerine Juice?
Sure, but keep it rare. If you’re planning to give tangerine juice to your rabbit, make sure to only give them organic and natural juice free from any kind of preservatives.
Additionally, the ratio of water should be higher than the juice.
You’ll have to create a diluted juice mixture that contains at least 85 percent water in it.
Can You Give Tangerine Peels to Your Rabbit?
The answer to this question is quite tricky!
While there’s nothing inherently wrong with giving your rabbit tangerine peels, the chemicals and pesticides used in tangerine farms are a huge risk factor.
Unless you’re absolutely sure that the tangerine has been sourced from organic farms that keep their produce pesticide-free, it’s better that you don’t feed your precious little bunny peels that may contain harmful chemicals. Better safe than sorry!
Final Words
When your rabbits show disinterest in their food, it’s important that you help them gain their love of food back before it takes a toll on their health. Fruits are a great option for that.
Adding small amounts of tangerines to their diet will provide them with essential nutrients and vitamins while also improving their overall health.
It’s okay to give your rabbit a few slices of tangerine per week as a treat, but don’t consider it as a meal substitute for hay, leaves, and other green foods that suit bunnies the best!
Other articles you may also find useful:
