Nutritional Needs of Senior Rabbits

For the most part, senior rabbit dietary needs are not all that different from any other bunny. They still need plenty of hay, fresh leafy greens, adequate water, and some pellets. However, as rabbits age and experience changes in their metabolism, dental health, and digestion, they may need some changes to their diet to help them maintain a healthy weight and healthy lifestyle.

I want to be clear here that I am not a veterinarian. This article contains general tips and changes you need to make for your senior rabbit’s nutrition as they age. However, I highly recommend talking through any dietary changes with your rabbit’s veterinarian so you can meet your rabbit’s individual needs.

How much pellets do elderly rabbits need?

The biggest dietary change for most senior rabbits is going to be in the amount of pellets you give them on a daily basis. However, their isn’t an easy answer of whether to give your rabbit more or less pellets because it depends entirely on your rabbit and their changing weight and health.

This is because as rabbits age, their activity levels tend to decrease. This lesser degree of activity usually means senior rabbits do not require the same caloric intake as their younger counterparts to maintain their weight. 

Obesity in senior rabbits is a serious concern, as it can lead to multiple health issues, including arthritis and sore hocks, and lack of flexibility to keep themselves clean (causing conditions like poopy butt. In these cases, you would need to reduce the amount of pellets you give your rabbit.

However, a decline in muscle mass is also common in older rabbits, which may necessitate an increased pellet portion to sustain their muscle tone and overall body condition. If you notice your rabbit losing weight, it might be time to adjust their diet to include more pellets.

Because the pellet recommendation can differ so dramatically, I highly recommend consulting your veterinarian to make an ideal diet plan for your elderly bunny based on their specific dietary needs.

Is there a specific brand that is best for senior rabbits?

While not always necessary, it may be beneficial to switch to a brand of pellets that is specifically made for elderly rabbits. For example, I know Oxbow (one of the brands I trust most for healthy rabbit food) has a “senior essentials” version of their rabbit food. However, as I’ve mentioned a number of times already, I recommend talking to your vet before switching your rabbit over to a new food.

Hay for senior rabbits

Catering to the needs of an aging rabbit also means observing their behavior and preferences for all types of food. Senior rabbits might have difficulty chewing or may become more selective with their food, but they still need a high-fiber diet with lots of hay to maintain a healthy gut and healthy teeth.

As rabbits get older, they often lose interest in their typical hay or develop preferences for softer textures due to dental sensitivities. If you notice your rabbit is pickier about hay, you might consider introducing other types of hay that are easier to chew, such as an orchard hay mix, which is less tough and may be more palatable for your rabbit. 

Additionally, 3rd cutting timothy hay is known for being softer and could entice your senior rabbit more than the first or second cuttings. You can find this type of hay at specialty online stores, such as Small Pet Select’s 3rd cutting hay.

If your rabbit is losing weight or is pickier with their food, consult your vet for advice. First, you vet can check for dental issues, since this can be the cause of picky eating. They might also suggest adding alfalfa hay to your rabbit’s diet, which is higher in calories and can help with weight gain. 

Water intake of senior rabbits

Rabbits of all ages need to drink a surprisingly large amount of water. As they age, rabbits have an increased risk of kidney disease and urinary tract infections, so you need to be sure they continue to drink a lot of water. 

You should ensure your rabbit has constant access to fresh water. Offering both a water bottle and a bowl can help you cater to your rabbit’s changing preferences. Including wet greens in their diet is also an effective way to boost their water intake. 

For instance, you can provide greens that are still wet from being washed, which will help hydrate them while they eat. It’s a subtle way to increase their overall fluid intake without relying solely on their drinking habits.

Do senior rabbits need supplements?

Unlike younger bunnies, elderly rabbits may face unique health challenges, including arthritis, weight management, digestive issues, and UTI’s. However, incorporating any supplement or medication into their diet should always be a decision made in consultation with a qualified veterinarian.

There is not a lot of research on over-the-counter rabbit supplements. You can get Oxbow joint-support supplements, urinary support supplements, and digestive support supplements for rabbits. These may provide some support and protection for elderly rabbits, but it’s better to consult your vet before adding any of these to your rabbit’s diet.

You can also try adding herbal blends to your rabbit’s diet, which can introduce more variety, ensuring they receive a broader spectrum of trace vitamins and minerals. This isn’t just advantageous for senior rabbits; rabbits of all ages can benefit from the nutritional diversity these blends offer. You could try Small Pet Selects Young at Heart Herbal Blend to give your elderbun a tasty and healthy treat.

In the case of arthritis, a common ailment in older rabbits, daily pain medication could provide significant relief. If you observe signs of discomfort or reduced mobility in your rabbit, you should address this during your next vet visit to determine the best course of action.

Sources:

1. “Caring for Senior Rabbits.” Rabbit Welfare Association. https://rabbitwelfare.co.uk/caring-for-senior-rabbits/
2. “Caring for senior rabbits.” RSPCA. https://www.rspca.org.uk/adviceandwelfare/pets/rabbits/senior
3. “Caring For Your Senior Rabbit.” PetCoach. https://www.petcoach.co/article/caring-for-your-senior-rabbit/
4. Sarah Dehn, Brianna Worrell. “Care of geriatric rabbits.” The Veterinary Nurse. July 2018. https://www.theveterinarynurse.com/content/review/care-of-geriatric-rabbits 
5. “Senior Rabbits.” DisabledRabbits.com. https://www.disabledrabbits.com/seniors.html