Can rabbits eat acorns?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Tannins are toxic and can cause serious illness; oak leaves are also harmful.
Why
Never let rabbits eat acorns.
Can rabbits eat acorns, and why?
Never let rabbits eat acorns. Tannins are toxic and can cause serious illness; oak leaves are also harmful.
Rabbits are herbivores: roughly 85% of their diet should be good-quality hay or grass, plus a daily handful of leafy greens, with only small amounts of other veg and tiny occasional fruit. They have a sensitive hindgut that depends on constant fibre — sudden changes, sugar or starch can trigger dangerous gut stasis and bloat.
Warning — what to watch for
Tannins are toxic and can cause serious illness; oak leaves are also harmful.
If your rabbit has eaten acorns, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods rabbits might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding rabbits well:
Frequently asked questions
Can rabbits eat acorns?
Unsafe. Never let rabbits eat acorns.
What happens if my rabbit eats acorns?
Tannins are toxic and can cause serious illness; oak leaves are also harmful. If your rabbit has eaten acorns, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is acorns poisonous to rabbits?
Unsafe. Never let rabbits eat acorns.
Check acorns for another pet