Can Rabbits Eat Orange Peel?

Rabbits may be able to eat a tiny amount of orange peel, but it is best not to feed it to them deliberately. Orange peel provides no essential benefit to rabbits and may contain wax, pesticides or other residue.

The peel is also tougher and more difficult to chew than the orange flesh. It contains concentrated citrus oils and has a strong, bitter taste, so it is not an ideal treat for a rabbit’s sensitive digestive system.

There is limited authoritative guidance specifically recommending orange peel for rabbits. Rabbit welfare organisations advise keeping fruit to very small, occasional portions and washing all fresh food thoroughly before serving it.

What If a Rabbit Eats Orange Peel?

A small nibble of orange peel is unlikely to cause a serious problem in an otherwise healthy adult rabbit. Remove the remaining peel and make sure your rabbit has access to plenty of fresh hay and water.

Monitor your rabbit’s eating habits, behaviour and droppings. Contact a rabbit-friendly vet promptly if your rabbit:

• Stops eating
• Produces fewer or no droppings
• Develops diarrhoea
• Appears bloated, uncomfortable or unusually quiet

Any new food can disturb a rabbit’s digestion, which is why dietary changes should always be made gradually.

So, can rabbits eat orange peel? A tiny accidental piece should not usually be a cause for panic, but orange peel is best left off your rabbit’s menu.