I just read an article that stated “Don’t feed Willow, Birch, Poplar, Alder or the herb Meadowsweet if your rabbit is on Metacam (Meloxicam). To me it makes sense and you may want to err on the side of caution. Please read this article here.
Flowers are one of natures greatest gifts, not just for their beauty, but for their healing properties as well. Many flowers you might have right in your own garden, along with wild flowers that can be foraged, are not only safe for your rabbit to consume, but therapeutic as well. They are a great way to naturally supplement your rabbits daily diet by allowing a wide variety of tastes and textures. Some flowers help aid in digestion, kidney health, joint pain, arthritis and more.
A well-balanced diet consisting of hay, greens and produce along with access to fresh water is essential for maintaining the overall health of your rabbit. Using plants for medicinal purposes or supplements should be done cautiously and under the guidance of a veterinarian. Introduce new elements to their diet gradually and monitor your rabbit’s response.
Edible Flowers
Click here for a comprehensive list of safe edible flowers.
Calendula
Calendula is thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. It helps to support the digestive and immune systems. Calendula is also an analgesic, aids eye health, skin health and wound healing, is a mucosal tonic as well as a powerful antioxidant. It is among the strongest of antiviral herbs.
Chamomile
Chamomile is a natural pain relief remedy. It is an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, anti-fungal and antibiotic. It is good for pain relief. Chamomile can be used as a wet compress for a weepy eye. Naturally soothing, it is a digestive relaxant used to treat various gastrointestinal disturbances including gas, indigestion, & diarrhea. A mild sedative, it can calm a nervous rabbit and reduce anxiety.
Cornflower
Cornflowers are an anti-inflammatory. High in fiber, they support digestion, act as a liver & gallbladder stimulant, are a diuretic and are helpful for stress and anxiety. Cornflowers strengthen the immune system. They are an antibacterial and astringent.
Cranberry
Cranberry flowers support urinary tract health.
Daisy
Daisies are a good source of vitamin C and protein for those rabbits on an all natural diet (non-pellet). They are also low in calories. Wild daisies contain a chemical called saponin which is known to help slow bleeding and help with wound care. It is an anti-inflammatory.
Echinacea
Echinacea is an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic, antimicrobial and anti-viral. It acts as a natural antibiotic helping to slow the spread of infection. If your rabbit battles frequent infections, Echinacea is the perfect addition to their diet as it is a great preventive herb to help boost their immune system. Because of its high fiber content, it also helps to improve digestion.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus improves heart and liver health and can help fight cancer and bacteria. It is rich in antioxidants such as beta-carotene, vitamin C and anthocyanin. Hibiscus helps to fight inflammation.
Marigold
Marigolds, Pot Marigolds otherwise known as English Marigolds, help with bruising, wound healing, ulcers, skin diseases and has potential digestive benefits. It also helps to strengthen the immune system.
Warning: African and Marsh Marigolds are toxic for rabbits. These can be irritating to the skin.
Nasturtium
Nasturtiums are high in vitamin C, contain minerals and other nutrients that help support a healthy diet (but not enough to meet their daily nutritional needs). They may have antibacterial properties and are an antiseptic.
Pansy
Pansies have mild anti-inflammatory effects.
Rose
Roses are a good source of vitamins A, C, E, Niacin and antioxidants. The petals act as an anti-carcinogen and may help in preventing the development of cancer. Roses strengthen the immune system by helping to fight and kill various bacteria and infections. They aid in respiratory diseases and can help calm a rabbit by reducing stress and anxiety. Rose hips (the round portion of the rose flower just below the petals that contains the seeds of the rose plant) help with digestive health. Roses have been used to treat diarrhea, kidney disorders, constipation, and other intestinal disorders and are an anti-inflammatory. The tannic acid contained in the rose petals causes an astringent taste and helps to control blood circulation.
Sunflower
Sunflower petals are high in vitamins. They may have anti-inflammatory effects.
Warning: feed the seeds sparingly as they can interfere with their digestive tract and cause diarrhea.
True Jasmine
Jasmine enhances digestion, promotes the growth of good bacteria in the gut and has been found to eliminate harmful bacteria and AMA toxins from the body, powerhouse of antioxidants, extremely beneficial for promoting heart functions and reducing the risk of heart ailments, and anxiety relief.
Warning: make sure to only feed true Jasmine. The Carolina Jasmine or Yellow Jasmine are toxic to rabbits. Although they look like Jasmine (they are not related), they have yellow flowers.
Foraging Flowers
It’s important to know exactly what you are picking when foraging. Safety is of the utmost importance when it comes to feeding your rabbit. I suggest a guide book to help identify a plant first and then cross reference it with a safety list.
Description of Flowers:
- Calendula- bright or orange colored “daisy” like flowers.
- Chamomile- tiny daisy like white flowers, less than an inch wide growing on tall stems.
- Cornflower- brilliant blue soft frilly blooms with grey green foliage.
- Cranberry- white to pink color blossoms about 1/4 inch with 4 lanced shaped petals.
- Daisy- yellow button like disk surrounded by small thin white petals on a single stem.
- Echinacea- purplish pink blooms on 2-4 foot tall stems with a domed purplish brown center on top.
- Hibiscus- large trumpet shaped flowers that come in a wide variety of colors.
- Marigold-are yellow, orange or white in color, and they also have feather-shaped leaves which grow from the base of the plant.
- Nasturtium-orange, yellow, pink or red flowers that are 2 1/2 inches wide.
- Pansy-velvety 5 petaled flowers in blue, yellow and white approximately 1 inch wide.
- Rose- prickly stems with green leaves, blooms come in a wide variety of colors, sizes and shapes.
- Sunflower- 3-15 foot tall stem with a 7.5-15 cm head with bright yellow petals radiating from a brown center.
- True Jasmine- a climbing shrub that can grow to 8 feet with fragrant pink to white 5 petaled blossoms.
FAQ’s
Can rabbits eat store bought flowers?
Plants and flowers bought in most stores and florists are grown for decoration. They are often treated with chemicals and have preservatives as well as added coloring. Do not feed these to your rabbit unless they are labeled edible.
How to preserve flowers?
There are a few of ways to do this. After cutting, make sure to thoroughly wash and towel dry.
Method 1 (dehydration): Cut the flowers to remove leaves; cut the stem very short. Spread flowers on the dehydrator trays in a single layer without overlapping to make sure flowers dry equally. Place in a dehydrator and dry at 135°F for 4-12 hours depending on the size of your flower. Rotate the trays often to dry flowers evenly.
Method 2 (freeze drying): If you have equipment to freeze dry, this method will hold the color and shape of the flower best. Follow instructions according to your machine.
Method 3 (natural): Tie flower stems and hang upside down in bunches in a well-ventilated, warm, dry place such as a cupboard or attic. Alternatively they can be hung in direct sunlight such as in a greenhouse or above a window in your home. Once dry, carefully remove the dried flowerheads and store in a clean, dry airtight jar in a dark place. Flowers should keep up to a year.
How should I feed flowers?
They can be fed fresh or dried, singular or as part of a mix. Flowers, herbs and weeds can be combined to target any number of illnesses or boost immunity. Add some flowers to your rabbits hay for extra foraging fun!
Flower Contradictions
When considering the use of flowers or herbal remedies alongside traditional medicines for your rabbit, it’s crucial to exercise caution and seek professional guidance from an exotic vet. They can provide guidance based on the specific needs and health status of your rabbit. Herbal remedies, while potentially beneficial, can be risky when mixing various treatments without proper knowledge of potential interactions . Some flowers may have pharmacological effects that could interfere with prescribed medications, affect absorption, or lead to unintended consequences.
- Always consult with a veterinarian before introducing any new flowers or herbal remedies to your rabbit’s diet, especially if your rabbit is already on traditional medications.
- Some flowers may have interactions with conventional medications, affecting their efficacy or leading to adverse effects. For example, certain herbs may have blood-thinning properties, which could be problematic when combined with medications that also affect blood clotting.
- Keep a close eye on your rabbit for any signs of adverse reactions or side effects, and report them to your veterinarian promptly.
- The specific condition your rabbit is being treated for matters. Certain health issues may be more sensitive to interactions or may require strict adherence to prescribed medications.
Toxic Flowers
It’s important to note that not all flowers are safe for rabbits. It’s crucial to be aware of toxic flowers for rabbits, as consuming them can lead to serious health issues or even fatality. You can find a comprehensive list of poisonous plants here.
Some toxic flowers to rabbits are:
- Foxglove: Contains compounds that can affect the heart and may be toxic if ingested.
- Poppy: Various species of poppy contain alkaloids that can be harmful.
- Lily of the Valley: Contains cardiac glycosides, which can be toxic and affect the heart.
- Tulip: The bulbs of tulips contain compounds that can be harmful if ingested.
- Azalea: Contains toxins that can affect the cardiovascular and nervous systems.
- Rhododendron: Similar to azaleas, rhododendrons contain toxins that can be harmful.
- Hyacinth: Contains oxalates that can cause irritation and digestive issues.
- Daffodil: All parts of the daffodil plant, especially the bulbs, contain toxins.
- Buttercup: Contains toxins that can cause irritation and gastrointestinal issues.
- Oleander: Highly toxic, containing compounds affecting the heart and gastrointestinal system.
- Crocus: Some species of crocus contain colchicine, which can be harmful.
- Holly
- Mistletoe
- Poinsetta
- Laurel
- Christmas Rose
Final Thoughts
Flowers can be a beneficial supplement to your rabbits diet when done carefully and thoughtfully. While not everyone has the ability for a garden or live in an area to forage, there are many small businesses that offer dried flowers, herbs and blends. You can find a list of businesses on my resource page.
When using flowers for medicinal purposes, it should be done cautiously and under the guidance of a veterinarian. If you’re unsure about a specific flower, it’s best to consult with an exotic veterinarian who has knowledge of rabbit care and as always consult with a professional before introducing new elements to your rabbit’s diet.
If you believe your bun has ingested an unsafe flower, get to your vet immediately. Symptoms could include intestinal upset and inflammation, diarrhea, loss of appetite, fever or low body temperature, seizures, lethargy, weakness and depression. Rapid intervention is crucial in cases of poisoning, and a veterinarian can provide appropriate treatment based on the specific toxic substance involved.
ASPCA’s Animal Poison Control Center has round-the-clock availability in case you’re unsure about whether a flower is safe or not. Their phone number is (888) 426-4435.
