As a responsible pet owner, we must have the knowledge about the safety and healthy diet of rabbit. A common question arise ‘Do Rabbits Eat Ferns or Not?’ Let’s learn and explore more about this topic in detail.
The simple answer to this question is No. Ferns are toxic and unsafe for your bunny to munch. They require the fiber rich diet to maintain the healthy life of your furry friend.
Ferns are generally poisonous and dangerous for bunny. It is important to make sure that your rabbit eats the nutrient rich diet to support their overall health.
Don’t worry! Here, we will explore in this article, “Why ferns should be avoided by Rabbits?” You should provide the best alternative healthy options for your bunny. In this text, you will learn about the potential risks of feeding these toxic plants to your bunny.
Is Ferns Toxic to Your Rabbits?
Not all the ferns are toxics. Rabbits can enjoy the change in their taste; but if true ferns get introducing in their diet, then serve in small portion.
Also Read: Can Rabbits Eat Alfalfa (Hay, Sprouts, & Cubes)? Guide
Plants like buttercups, primrose, poppy, nightshade etc. contains the toxins which are unsafe for rabbits to feeds. Sword ferns are safe or true ferns which mostly eaten by bunnies.
The true ferns are easy to grow and are a good for the soil. Always ensure to serve the true ferns to bunnies instead of other ferns as they are toxic in nature.
Health Concerns of Serving Fern Plants to Bunnies
Ferns look appealing and beautiful to rabbit. Feeding these plants in large quantities can cause several problems like gastrointestinal upset, kidney damage; and even respiratory failure.
As a bunny owner, it is important to educate ourselves the risks and benefits of the plants, before serving to your furry friend.
What Types of Ferns Are Safe or Unsafe for Rabbit?
Over 10,000 known species of ferns are found in the gardens or lawns and homes. The following are the varieties of the ferns that are safe to feed:
Foxtail Ferns
Most probably, rabbits do not eat foxtail ferns. These ferns are evergreen plants and drought resistant. Though, it requires the more care to make them look green for the long period.
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Moreover, your bunny will not munch on ferns. This is because; they contain the toxins which are bad for pet rabbits. It is better to ensure that your rabbit do not come closer to these harmful plants.
Boston Ferns
The Boston ferns are generally edible for your furry friend. They are safe for the other pets like cats and dogs. They are most likely to be damaged by bunnies.
Introduce, Boston Ferns in small portion to your furry friend’s diet.
Asparagus Ferns
These ferns are not implied for your bunny. They are the most toxic in nature. Rabbits mostly prevent the Asparagus ferns and sedges on their own.
They are toxic for rabbits as well as humans. These ferns generally contain the small thorns which can even cut your bunnies’ mouth and tongue.
Christmas Ferns
Christmas ferns are generally prevented by rabbits. They are rabbit deterrent. Game Birds like ruffed goose and wild tend to eat these ferns.
They are not liked by rabbits and are unsafe for them to munch on. Never add these ferns to your bunny’s diet.
Maidenhair Ferns
This is one of the most common ferns that are most dangerous and poisonous for your furry friend. Try to keep far way from these ferns.
Maidenhair Ferns are of low maintenance and look absolutely awesome in your lawns or gardens. But If you have own rabbits, then it is recommended to keep these plants away.
Japanese Painted Ferns
The Japanese painted ferns are generally toxic for both humans as well as animals. Rabbits do not munch on this fern.
You should be aware if you have these plants around your garden. To protect, it is required to keep your unusual mind away from pets.
Ostrich Ferns
Feeding of ostrich ferns may lead to several health hazards to your furry friend. This is because; they contain the toxins which are even developed yet.
Sword Ferns
Rabbits can also eat sword ferns. They are quite easy to grow and provide a wonderful texture, protect the soil moisture and stable the soil.
What will Happen If Your Rabbit Intake Toxic Fern?
Consumption of toxic ferns by your rabbit can cause health issues like:
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
- Weight loss
- Seizures
- Respiratory problems
In many cases, a toxic fern even leads to death. If you observe that your bunny has eaten any toxic ferns, consult a vet immediately.
How Do You Keep Rabbit Safe Around Fern Plants?
It is necessary to keep bunnies far away from your garden if you have ferns in it. For your rabbit safety, following are some tips:
Also Read: Do Rabbits Eat Hostas (Plants + Leaves)? Myths & Facts
Keep ferns either in hanging baskets or the top of shelves from where your bunny can’t eat.
Ensure to plant this in a secured, and rabbit proof enclosure.
Manage your rabbit when it’s in the same room as a fern.
Provide rabbit the safe and healthy diet.
FAQs (Frequency Asked Questions)
Can Rabbits Have Ferns in Wild?
Wild rabbits usually don’t munch on these ferns as some of them are bitter and mildly toxic. They opt for grasses, clover and other plants instead.
What Kinds of Ferns are Toxic to Bunnies?
Here are common toxic ferns which include:
- Bracken Fern (Pteridium aquilinum)
- Asparagus Fern (Asparagus setaceus)
Always ensure the plant names before serving them.
Can Bunnies Get Sick from Just One Bite of Fern?
It relies totally on the species of Ferns. A single pick of these toxic plants can results in the stomach upset. But, others like bracken can leads to serious health problems. Observe your rabbit closely and contact vet immediately if signs appear.
What Should You Serve Rabbit instead of Ferns?
Here are some alternative food sources that offer a plenty of nutrients:
- Timothy hay (main food source)
- Leafy greens (like romaine, parsley, dandelion greens)
- Fresh veggies in moderation (like bell peppers, carrots, broccoli leaves)
Summing Up: Do Rabbits Eat Ferns?
As resulting of this article; rabbits don’t like ferns. But, true ferns like sword ferns can be eaten by rabbits.
Also Read: Can Rabbits Eat Dandelions (Flowers + Leaves)? Benefits & Risks
Generally, most ferns are toxic and unsafe for them because of the presence of the toxins. They are bad for humans too.
Do you have any experience, tips, tricks, or query regarding on this? You can drop a comment!
Have a Nice Day!!
