Can I Give My Rabbit Garlic? - Rabbits Life (2024)

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Can I Give My Rabbit Garlic? - Rabbits Life (1)

Garlic has been used worldwide for thousands of years for medicinal purposes. Contemporary research has confirmed that garlic possesses numerous antioxidants that kill bacteria and free radicals in the blood protecting and strengthening the immune system.

Some rabbit owners will tell you that garlic is bad for rabbits and it’s true that in large quantities it can be toxic, just as most bulbs are, but others and vets suggest that in small doses garlic may also be beneficial to some bunnies’ health.

Attention! We don't recommend you to try garlic or garlic tablets on your dear rabbit. It's at your own risk. This may seriously affect his health. Only a vet could tell you if that is necessary in case your rabbit has parasites or atherosclerosis. He is the one that will tell in which way or in which dosage it's safe to give it to your dear bunny. So don't try it on your own. Better safe than sorry.

Medicinal Properties

While garlic has traditionally been used by humans both internally and externally for its antibacterial properties, it can work similarly in rabbits. Among other medicinal properties, garlic can:

  • lower serum cholesterol levels in rabbits on high-fat diets
  • help the skin eliminate toxins
  • relax the stomach and reduce gas in the digestive tract.
  • be beneficial for its anti-fungal properties and the ability to combat free radicals in the body
  • can help rabbit respiratory systems by removing excess mucus

Feeding Garlic to Your Rabbit is Toxic

When it comes to rabbit diet, the category of bulbs, tubers, and seeds which includes onion, garlic, peas, lentil, potato etc, is never recommended. Many experts suggest that you avoid feeding these types of vegetables to your bunny as they are generally either toxic or contain high levels of starch.

Garlic and onion are similar and it is known that onion has an immunosuppressive effect in rabbits. This would be a good reason not to include it in the diet of your beloved bunny.

Although it’s not unheard of that a rabbit likes garlic, generally they turn their noses up at it and if it’s not for medical reasons ideally with the blessing of your vet, it’s safest to not feed your rabbit garlic.

Can I Give My Rabbit Garlic? - Rabbits Life (2024)

FAQs

Can you give rabbits garlic? ›

There is not much data on the effects of garlic on rabbits, mostly because rabbits refuse to eat it. The data we have shows this will be OK regarding any serious toxicity concerns. The amount swallowed is not toxic and will not cause any problems of internal organ injury.

What is the best natural antibiotic for rabbits? ›

GOLDENSEAL. Goldenseal is another immune boosting herb for rabbits. It's an effective anti-inflammatory treatment for rabbits who suffer from frequent infections. Goldenseal also has properties that help in treating bladder infections by acting as a natural antibiotic.

Is wild garlic safe for rabbits? ›

Other plants to leave when foraging are Aconite, Celandine, Cornco*ckle, Cowslip, Dock, Fool's Parsley, Henbane, Hedge Garlic, Ivy, Spurge, Traveller's Joy, Tree Lupin, Wild Garlic and Wood Sorrel.

How to get rid of rabbits without killing them? ›

Plants like nasturtiums, garlic, onion, rhubarb, oregano, basil and geranium are effective at keeping rabbits out of garden beds. Also, sprinkling cayenne pepper around the garden (or even on the plants) will send rabbits packing. They'll sniff this spicy stuff and high-tail it out of there.

Why can't rabbits eat garlic? ›

Plant onions and garlic around the perimeter of your garden to discourage rabbits and deer from entering. Rabbits generally know better than to eat garlic or onions, which can trigger severe anaphylactic reactions, and even deer seem to find these powerfully potent plants less than appealing.

What animals Cannot eat garlic? ›

Onions and garlic are part of the Allium family of foods. This family of foods includes onions, garlic, chives, shallots, and leeks. This whole food family is toxic to dogs and cats. These foods can be toxic in any form, so whether it is fresh, cooked, or powdered, it can be harmful to your pet.

What can I give my rabbit for infection? ›

Table 1. Antibiotics Used in Pet Rabbits
AntibioticInjectable Use?Oral Use?
CiprofloxacinYesYes
ClindamycinNoNo
DifloxacinNoYes
DoxycyclineYesYes
24 more rows

How do you treat an infected rabbit? ›

Treatment usually involves either oral or injectable antibiotics, given for a minimum of 2-4 weeks. In some cases, treatment can be required for months, depending on the response. Certain oral antibiotics, especially oral penicillin, amoxicillin, and similar drugs, can be fatal to rabbits.

Do animals eat raw garlic? ›

Since garlic is more concentrated than an onion, an even smaller ingested amount could lead to toxicosis—as little as one clove of garlic can lead to toxicity in cats and small dogs. Please note that a pet's weight, type of breed and prior health history can vary the toxicity level of ingested garlic.

Can rabbits eat garlic peels? ›

Unsafe Produce. The list of unsafe fruits and veggies includes avocado, bamboo shoots; dried, raw, lima, kidney, and soy beans; cabbage; chocolate; coffee; corn; dog/cat food; grains; meat; millet; nuts; garlic and onions; peas; potatoes, including peels; and seeds.

Can rabbits have garlic powder? ›

(2011), in their experiment on male rabbits for a period of six weeks, and who obtainedZ a significant increase in the rate of weight gain and feed conversion efficiency when they provided 90% of their protein needs +0.75% garlic powder in rations compared to 100% of their protein needs + 0.75% ginger powder, as noted ...

How can I save a dying rabbit? ›

Heat a microwavable “bunny warmer” and then place it against the rabbit. (Make sure it isn't hot to the touch or you could burn your bunny.) Heat a bath towel in a microwave, 30 seconds at a time and when it is very warm, wrap it around the rabbit. This doesn't last long, but it gives heat all over the body.

What do rabbits hate the most? ›

Alliums: Plants in the allium family, such as onions and garlic, have a strong odor that is unappealing to rabbits. Marigolds: Marigolds have a strong, pungent odor that is unpleasant to many pests, including rabbits. Mint: Mint is also a deterrent.

What kills rabbits at night? ›

Owls and Hawk. Owls are nocturnal. That means they hunt at night when everyone is asleep. Owls will use aerial antennas or power poles as resting sites while hunting.

Can rabbits eat garlic skin? ›

Anything from the onion family – this includes green onions, chives, leeks, and garlic – are to be avoided. And any parts of these plants should be, as well. Like the peels, skins, roots, leaves, etc. Rabbits are not as sensitive to onions as dogs and cats, but it's still toxic to them.

Can rabbits eat ginger and garlic? ›

Garlic - A spicy food, garlic can be useful in small quantities for sick animals as it has health promoting properties. Best grated or mashed with other preferred veg due to bad acceptance. Ginger - Good for the immune system, joint problems, inflammation and respiratory infections.

What seasonings can rabbits eat? ›

Dried parsley, mint, oregano, dill and basil are safe for rabbits. Thyme, rosemary and sage can also be fed in very small quantities. Q. How often should rabbits have herbs?

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