The Rabbit Sanctuary - The Rabbit Sanctuary Blog , Rabbit DietThe Rabbit Sanctuary - The Rabbit Sanctuary Blog , Rabbit Diethttps://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/rabbit-dietSun, 26 Apr 2026 04:24:34 +1000http://zoho.com/sites/<![CDATA[Rabbit Breeds in Australia]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/Mint-rabbit-food1Mint along with fresh grass is a wonderful fresh bunny food. It is also a tonic for the rabbit’s gut.]]>
Australia does not have all known rabbit breeds due to laws prohibiting the importation of rabbits.  Since importation was stopped some breeds have become rare or died out while other newer rabbit breeds were never imported such as the Lion Head.  The import of live animals into Australia is controlled by the Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation Act 1999, and the Quarantine Act 1908. (Keeping Exotic Animals - Wildlife Trade and Conservation in Australia. (2017, January 18). Retrieved January 18, 2017, from here.


Rabbit Breeds Found in Rabbit Rescue Shelters in Australia


There are still a wide variety of rabbit breeds from small to large. Some are plentiful in rabbit rescue while others such as the English Angora rarely find their way into shelters and The Rabbit Rescue Sanctuary Australia has only ever had one in nine years of operation. Purebred Netherland Dwarf rabbits also rarely find themselves in a rabbit rescue shelter. Rare rabbit breeds are rarely found in rabbit shelters. For example, The Rabbit Rescue Sanctuary has never once rescued a Thrianta rabbit.


Rare Rabbit Breeds in Australia


There are a few Australian rabbit breeders that are trying to maintain rare breeds such as the Thrianta rabbit which exists in the USA, Britain and Europe. One such breeder was Fran Boston from Lismore NSW who is no longer breeding thrianta bunnies. The English Spot is said to be very rare if it exists in pure form at all. Another rare rabbit breed in Australia is the plush rex and plus lop. They have a soft velvet-like fur.  Many rabbit breeds have been lost to government introduced rabbit viruses such as Myxomatosis and Calicivirus.


Rabbit Breeds in Australia


The following is a list of rabbit breeds found in Australia and exhibited in rabbit shows run by Australian rabbit clubs and rabbit breed societies. (Ref: The Pet Directory Rabbit Breeders List)


Giant Rabbit Breeds in Australia

British Giant

Flemish Giant


Large Rabbit Breeds in Australia

Californian

Alaska

Chinchilla

Chinchilla Gigantas

Dellenaar

French Lop

New Zealand White

Silver Fox


Medium Size Rabbit Breeds in Australia

Argente

Angora

Belgium Hare

Cashmere Lop

Dwarf Lop

English

Plush Lop

Plush Rex

Rex

Sable

Satin

Smoke Pearl

Velvet Lops (a newly developed breed)


Small Rabbit Breeds in Australia

Dutch

Jersey Wooly

Mini Lop

Mini Cashmere Lop

Mini Rex

Netherland Dwarf (the smallest rabbit breed of all)

Polish


THE RABBIT FANCY


The term ‘fancy’ rabbits came about when rabbit shows grew in popularity in the 1800s. Rabbit ‘fanciers’ put on rabbit exhibitions and fairs in Western Europe and the USA. 


Many breeds were developed for the show ring and many of them are still here in Australia. Some show breeds we used to have are gone and since 1990s we can no longer import rabbits into Australia.
]]>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:58:28 +1100<![CDATA[Feed your rabbit fresh mint]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/Mint-rabbit-foodMint along with fresh grass is a wonderful fresh bunny food. It is also a tonic for the rabbit’s gut.]]>

FRESH MINT FOR BUNNIES

Learn about the benefits of feeding fresh mint to your rabbit on a daily basis.

Fresh mint is a healthy, daily herb for rabbits and offers several digestive benefits when fed in moderation. Here’s a detailed look:

⸻

🌱 Digestive SupportMint for rabbits is good for rabbit digestive system

•Natural Soother: Mint contains mild essential oils (like menthol) that can help calm the stomach and reduce mild digestive discomfort or bloating.

•Carminative Effect: Mint is traditionally known to reduce gas buildup by relaxing smooth muscles in the digestive tract, helping food move through the gut.

⸻

💧 Hydration & Fiber

•High Water Content: Fresh mint leaves are hydrating, which helps maintain gut motility and prevents dehydration-related slowdowns.

•Low in Sugar & Calories: Unlike fruits or starchy treats, mint offers fiber and hydration without spiking blood sugar.

⸻


⚖️ Nutritional Benefits

•Rich in Antioxidants & Vitamin C: Supports overall immune and digestive health.

•Mild Anti-inflammatory Properties: Can help soothe the digestive tract if there’s minor irritation.


⸻

✅ Feeding Guidelines

•Small Amounts Only: Offer a fresh sprig (with leaves and stems) daily.

•Rinse Well: Always wash mint to remove pesticides or residues.

•Introduce Slowly: As with any new food, introduce mint gradually to avoid upsetting the delicate gut flora.



Full Article
]]>Mon, 23 Mar 2026 08:58:28 +1100<![CDATA[Water intake in rabbits - by Dr. Izidora Sladakovic]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/water-intake-in-rabbits-by-dr.-izidora-sladakovic

Water is the often forgotten, but very important nutrient for many animals, including rabbits. Just like us, a rabbit’s body is made up of ~ 60% water.


Did you know that a 2kg rabbit drinks as much as a 10kg dog?! Rabbits have a few unique anatomic and physiologic features that require them to consume a lot of water:

  • Rabbits are hindgut fermenters with a large gastrointestinal tract requiring a high-fibre diet, and water is essential for the digestive process to occur. They constantly produce saliva and there is a constant exchange of water across the intestines, requiring intake of water to ensure the intestinal contents are hydrated.
  • Rabbit kidneys have a limited ability to concentrate urine, which means they produce a larger amount of urine compared to some other animals. The average urine output for a rabbit is 130mL/kg/day, but this can range from 20mL/kg/day to 250mL/kg/day.


Fresh clean water should always be available from an open bowl. Sipper bottles have been traditionally used for rabbits, however, rabbits prefer drinking from a bowl and can drink 3-4 times faster.


The average water intake for a rabbit is ~ 120mL/kg/day, however, this can vary and can be higher or lower. A significant increase in water intake can occur due to:

  • Rabbit being kept at a warm ambient temperature
  • Food deprivation
  • Lactation


It is possible that newly rescued rabbits did not have access to an appropriate diet or sufficient water prior to rescue, and their water intake may be significantly higher when given access to a readily available water source and appropriate food.


The type of diet also affects water intake in rabbits:

  • Rabbits fed a high-fibre, high-protein or high-calcium diet drink more water.
  • Rabbits fed a dry diet, such as hay, need to drink more water to hydrate the hay for digestion.
  • Rabbits fed a diet high in fresh grass and other fresh succulent plants, including leafy greens, will drink less water than those on a dry diet. Wild rabbits get a lot of their water from fresh grass.
  • Rabbits fed grain-type mixes (which are not appropriate) drink less water.


Water intake can be altered in certain disease states. An increase in water intake can occur due to dental disease, kidney disease, liver disease, gastrointestinal disease, and any disease process that results in dehydration. Affected rabbits may not eat, may have a reduced appetite and/or may be lethargic. Chronically affected rabbits may be losing weight or may be in poor body condition.


Key points:

  • Offer water from an open bowl (such as a heavy ceramic bowl that can’t be tipped over).
  • A SIPPER BOTTLE SHOULD NOT BE THE SOLE WATER SOURCE.
  • Ensure water is always available.
  • NEVER DEPRIVE A RABBIT OF WATER.
  • Measure and record daily water intake.
  • If the rabbit’s appetite is reduced, they are lethargic, losing weight or if you have any concerns about the well-being of the rabbit in your care, have them checked by a rabbit vet.

 

© 2024 Avian & Exotics Service

Disclaimer - The information included here is of a general nature designed for education purposes and is not a replacement for a veterinary consultation. AVES has no liability in connection with the use of this material

]]>Sun, 07 Apr 2024 14:27:23 +1000<![CDATA[Hay Variety]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/hay-variety

The Benefits of a Variety of Hays for Bunnies

It is very important that bunnies have more than one hay type. 

Feeding a variety of hays is crucial for a rabbit's gut and dental health, primarily due to the different nutritional and physical properties of each type of hay. Grassy hays, such as Timothy, Rye Grass, and Teff Hay, are high in fiber, which is essential for maintaining a rabbit's digestive health. The high fiber content helps in the proper functioning of the gut, reducing the risk of gastrointestinal stasis, a common and serious condition in rabbits. These grassy hays are typically lower in protein and calcium, which is beneficial in preventing urinary tract issues.


On the other hand, cereal hays like Oaten Hay or Barley Hay have a different texture and nutritional profile. They are often softer and more palatable, encouraging rabbits to eat more hay overall, which is vital for their health. The variety in texture also plays a crucial role in dental health. 


Rabbits' teeth grow continuously, and the chewing action required for harder hays helps to wear down their teeth naturally, preventing overgrowth and dental issues.


By offering a mix of both grassy and cereal hays, you ensure that your rabbit gets a balance of textures for teeth and gut plus essential nutrients and fiber, while also providing a variety of textures to keep their teeth in good shape. 


This variety not only caters to their nutritional needs but also stimulates their interest in food, which is important for their overall well-being.

Six Hay Mix
]]>Tue, 02 Jan 2024 00:19:36 +1100<![CDATA[Seeds on Hay]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/seeds-on-your-rabbit-s-hay

Seeds on your rabbit hay

Have you ever seen or thought about the seeds on your rabbit’s hay? 

Get Started Now
]]>Tue, 12 Jul 2022 18:05:58 +1000<![CDATA[Hay for Rabbits]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/hay-for-rabbitsThe essential and main diet for a rabbit is hay and fresh grass. Hay Facts: Hay must be fresh and top quality. You will NOT get that in supermarkets. You ]]>

The essential and main diet for a rabbit is hay and fresh grass.


Hay Facts:

Hay must be fresh and top quality.

You will NOT get that in supermarkets. You rarely get that in pet shops. 

Oxbow hay is the best we have in Australia. It is packaged in bags and quality control checks are in place. If you have more than one or two rabbits and are on a budget you might like to explore buying hay in 'bales'. A bale of hay is around 1 metre long and 40cm across. If you store it up off the ground in a dry, dust free part of your home or garage then it will last you quite a while.  


Where to buy bales of hay for rabbits

Agricultural Produce stores stock hay in ‘bales’. Depending where produce stores buy the hay in from it is either top grade and fresh or poor grade and old. Old hay is known as ‘Shedded’ hay. 


I recommend 3 hay types of hay. Having various hay racks will be handy. To keep the bunny's gut and teeth healthy the 3 hays are working in different ways to support that.

Hard Hay: Oaten Hay 

Soft Hay: Timothy or Rye or Teff

Treat & Tempter Hay: Lucerne 


All the 3 hays should be fresh cut and top quality. A fresh hay tends to have a greenish appearance. Lucerne should be very green and leafy.


I suggest a hay bag or large hay rack on the side of the playpen with a large litter tray underneath.


Ikea sell a plastic bag holder which we have found awesome as a hay rack. 


A hay bag can be made in minutes from a fabric shopping bag. Just cut a hole in lower front of bag. Hang it from a hook (S shaped hook) from Bunnings. 


How do you tell if hay is good or not when purchasing? 


Look carefully and closely at the hay. It should have a fresh green tinge. It should not be brown and dull. That would mean it has been left in the rain in the paddock. If you are checking a bale of hay then look inside. The outside of the bale might be sun bleached but if it is greenish inside then it is good. 


Smell the hay. A fresh, good quality and well harvested and stored hay should smell fresh and not mouldy or dusty.

]]>Wed, 02 Sep 2020 18:05:23 +1000<![CDATA[Grass or Greens]]>https://www.rabbitsanctuary.com.au/blogs/post/grass-or-greensGrass is the new greens! Read a quick note on the benefits of feeding your pet rabbit grass and a natural diet.]]>

Should I feed my rabbit greens, vegetables, herbs or grass?

So many people are feeding their rabbits lots of green vegetables. Many more are converting to a daily diet of hand picked, or scissor cut lawn grass. Why is this so? 


Just have a think about the rabbit in his or her natural habitat in the wild. Ask yourself to visualise this natural environment and what plants you see growing. Let's close our eyes and think... We see grasses and seeding grasses of one or perhaps two kinds, bark, leaves that have fallen from trees, some fresh and some dried by the sun and wind. We see twigs and fallen branches. We may see some natural growing shrubs or weeds such as dandelions or seasonally perhaps wild berries. The natural, fresh seeds on the grasses are not the same as the dried, treated seeds used in rabbit mixes but rather they are a living food, part of the grass itself. 


House rabbits need grass. Hand pick lawn grasses.


In this natural rabbit environment what don't we see? Again, close your eyes and what do you not see? We don't see green vegetables, nor carrots or any other vegetable do we? No. 


We could come to the conclusion that perhaps rabbits are meant to eat the grasses, bushes and weeds, leaves and native plants that they find as they explore outside their burrows and perhaps not the 'greens' that most vets and internet advisors are recommending.

Eating grass and a soft and a hard fresh top grade hay will not only help your bunny to have a natural diet but will give his teeth a lot of exercise and grinding down which will lessen the risk of 'spurs' forming on his or her teeth. 


We can also save money by feeding our bunnies grasses. Simply leave a section of your lawn  for the bunnies and water daily. Cut enough each day with a pair of scissors. If you provide an unlimited supply of fresh, top grade hays such as oaten hay and Timothy hay then your bunny will be eating ala naturale and your wallet will be fatter. 


One thing is sure, if we stop feeding Coles bought green vegetables and feed the bunnies their natural plant and grass based diet we would be feeding them as nature intended. 


A Blade of Grass - Why is it special for your rabbit?

This is a blade of GRASS, enlarged many times. The jagged edges are specialised structures called PHYTOLITHS. Grasses make this from the SILICA they absorb from soil. Not all species produce these daggers, some distribute phytoliths throughout their leaves, basically housing tiny granules of GLASS. Funny as it may sound, but grasses produce this as protection against being eaten! Not only is grass high in fibre, but these phytoliths are like SANDPAPER for your bunnies teeth. 

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