Can rabbits eat hazelnuts?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Far too high in fat for a herbivore’s digestive system.
Why
Hazelnuts are not suitable for rabbits.
Can rabbits eat hazelnuts, and why?
Hazelnuts are not suitable for rabbits. Far too high in fat for a herbivore’s digestive system.
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
Far too high in fat for a herbivore’s digestive system.
If your rabbit has eaten hazelnuts, 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 hazelnuts?
Unsafe. Hazelnuts are not suitable for rabbits.
What happens if my rabbit eats hazelnuts?
Far too high in fat for a herbivore’s digestive system. If your rabbit has eaten hazelnuts, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is hazelnuts poisonous to rabbits?
Unsafe. Hazelnuts are not suitable for rabbits.
Check hazelnuts for another pet