Best Rabbit Treats

by Patrick

Published: February 6th, 2019

Best Rabbit Treats

While it’s important to make sure that your rabbit’s food meets their nutritive needs, it is equally important to offer them some healthy treats in addition to the hay, such as veggies, fruits, or specially made biscuits and other treats for bunnies. Not only that treats can add a bit of variety to your pet’s diet, they will also supplement it with essential nutrients and vitamins, promote positive behavior and even stimulate your bunny to do well in your training sessions (and, unless you want to battle bad smells for years, you will need to litter train them). However, while there are many benefits to giving your rabbit treats, there are some concerns, too. First, you will have to pick out the right ones, and second, you will have to pay special attention to serving sizes. You wouldn’t want to overfeed your bunny, as it can lead to serious health issues in the long run.

So, what types of treats can you give to your rabbit? Which brands are top rated and recommended for bunnies? Are there any human foods you can offer to your bunny? Answers to these questions and many more others can be found right here at PetGuide.com. Our vast resources on rabbits, their behavior and habits include information on their nutrition, as well. In our section about Rabbit Treats, you will find everything from detailed buying guides that will feature great bunny biscuits and pre-made dried herb mixes, to ideas and advice on how to make your own rabbit treats at home. PetGuide.com’s experts will make sure your paw-thumping companion gets the yummy reward they surely deserve!

Best Rabbit Treats
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Ware Manufacturing Rice Pops

- Crispy, crunchy chew that is irresistible to small pets.

- Wholesome combination of crunchiness and flavor – Made of rice and corn.

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Kaytee Timothy Biscuits Baked Treat

- Supports dental health through natural chewing activity.

- Ideal for bonding and playtime.

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Vitakraft Rabbit Slims

- Made with harvest fresh grains and carrots.

- Easy to digest and make an ideal snack.

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Oxbow Simple Rewards Baked Treats

- Combines the irresistible flavors of real apple and banana with wholesome, high fiber Timothy hay.

- Add variety and enrichment to your pet’s diet.

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Kaytee Natural Timothy Hay Cubes

- Lower protein and calcium supports urinary health.

- High fiber hay aids in digestive health.

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Types of Rabbit Treats

The goal for any rabbit owner is to feed their pet diet that is as close to possible to that their bunny would eat in the wild. Rabbits, whose diet is predominantly made up out of hay both in wild and as pets, find other plant-based goodies to be a fantastic treat. Unlike cats and dogs, who can have numerous types of treats, from kibble-like noms to chewable bones, rabbit treats are mostly based around their natural diet, which means fresh veggies and fruits, as well as special dried grass mixes and pellets.

As rabbits rarely (if ever) get to feast on crunchy veggies and juicy fruits in the wild, getting some as a treat is truly rewarding for them. While it might not seem anywhere near as luxurious as the countless options some other pet parents have, bunny owners can make their pet happy and excited with something as simple as a few peas or a lettuce leaf. Granted, you will need to know which vegetables your rabbit can eat and which are best to avoid – you will find all the scoop on rabbit-safe foods in PetGuide.com’s informative pages.

Additionally, fruits can be a really special occasional reward for your pampered bunny – the natural sugars are bound to have their tiny noses twitching for more. However, the natural sugars are also somewhat of a concern as overindulging your pet in fruits and other carb-rich and sugary plants can lead to health issues. Too much calorie dense foods (and for bunnies, fruits and some veggies are just that) and your bunny could have an upset stomach or become obese, which will cause a whole other set of problems with their health. In addition to helping you learn which fruits, vegetables, and natural treats are good for your precious pet bunny, PetGuide.com’s guides will make sure that you know how to calculate the right amount of treats, as well. Portions and frequency of the treats are as important as the choice of the treat itself, so make sure you know how much rewarding you should actually do!

Choosing Rabbit Treats

On the other hand, there are other options besides fruits and veggies you’ve sneaked out of your own pantry. Same as it is the case with other pets, there are many options for store-bought, pre-made rabbit treats, both in pet stores and online markets. These bunny yummies are specially formulated to suit your pet’s nutritive needs and, in most cases, these treats will have a feeding guide printed out on the bag so you won’t have to worry you’re overdoing it.

Some of the most popular options include bunny biscuits and chewable bits, that can double as roughage in addition to being a scrumptious treat, or dried mixes of various herbs, leaves, and plants that they would have access to in the wild. Most bunnies will go wild for these- which makes them quite suitable as an aid to positive reinforcement training. Not unlike cats and dogs, bunnies respond well to reward-based training and will learn how to use the litter much faster if you coax them with their fave treats.

To boot, your bunny can learn a few tricks, like to come when called, with the right combination of delicious nom-noms and a bit of effort. Not only that you’ll get recommendations for best rabbit treats here at PetGuide.com, but our vast resources on rabbits and their behavior will help you train your pet and deepen the bond you have. For instance, did you know that by sprinkling the treats throughout your pet’s hay will stimulate a rabbit’s natural instinct to forage- this way, they’ll get to enjoy both the tastiness of the treat and the excitement of the search? Our experts generously share nifty insider tips like this one all the time, so make sure to peruse the guides we have on the website.

If you are a bunny owner, both experienced or a beginner, make sure to take a look at other PetGuide.com’s resources on rabbits. From our detailed breed pages, and guides on everything from rabbit carriers and houses to health and grooming supplies, we guarantee you’ll find an answer to all your bunny-related questions.

Patrick

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Humans Are Getting Their Pets Sick – Here's What You Need To Know

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Can I Use Human Hair Shampoo to Wash My Dog?

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Is Dog Snoring Normal?

Does it sound like your pet’s sawing wood whenever they take a nap? We hear you. It just so happens that dogs can snore like humans do, and some do it quite often and quite loudly. But what causes snoring in dogs, and is it normal? And is there a way to limit, reduce, or altogether eliminate it? Here are all the deets on dog snoring you need to know.Is Dog Snoring Normal?First off, yes, dog snoring can be completely normal. Just like humans, dogs can snore for various reasons. In most cases, it is not something you should worry about. Still, it can be somewhat distracting, and you might want to know what causes it. A number of factors can contribute to this issue – here are the most common ones.Brachycephalic Breeds:Dogs with short noses and flat faces, known as brachycephalic breeds, are more prone to snoring. This conformation can lead to narrower air passages, making it harder for air to flow smoothly during breathing. Examples of brachycephalic breeds include Bulldogs, Pugs, Boxers, and Shih Tzus.Weight:Overweight, chubby dogs may snore more frequently because excess weight can put pressure on their airways. Combined with excess fat on their neck, and the sleeping position, their snoring can be quite loud, especially during sleep. Age:Believe it or not, age can cause snoring as well! Older dogs may snore more frequently and loudly as they age, just like some humans. Age can affect the muscles and tissues in a dog's throat. Older dogs may experience a relaxation of these tissues, contributing to snoring. Don't hold it against your senior furry friend, they can't help it!Sleeping Environment:Ultimately, the environment in which a dog sleeps can influence snoring. For example, if the room is too dry, it may irritate the nasal passages, or if it's too warm, dogs may breathe with their mouths open, contributing to snoring. Try to find an ideal environment for them, or consider using an air humidifier to moisturize dry air.

Holiday Gifts for Your Cats: Tips and Recommendations

Your cat is a member of your family, so why not include them in the gift giving tradition of the holidays by getting them something special? With a wide range of pet products on the market, you can find an item that your kitty is sure to love, and you can make sweet memories in the process. Whether you have a stocking for your furbaby or you plan on wrapping a little gift for them, here are some holiday gift ideas for cats to help you get started.

What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't?

It’s no secret dogs are nosy – especially when they suspect food is involved. They’ll have no problem jumping on the counter, digging through trash, or “sneakily” stealing stuff off your coffee table if given a chance. Not only that this type of behavior can be really irritating for the owner, but it is also downright dangerous. Dogs can easily swallow something that could cause serious health issues – a tiny object that can cause choking, a hazardous chemical, or some human food that is poisonous to them. In either of these cases, the owner should be prepared and alert as acting quickly is crucial when your pet eats something that they shouldn’t have. But what exactly do you need to do if this happens? What is the course of action to help a dog who ingested something they simply should not? Let’s go over it.What to Do If Your Dog Ingested Something They Shouldn't: Step By Step ExplainedIf your dog has ingested something they shouldn't have, it's important to act quickly. Every second counts in this case so don’t panic even if that’s your first instinct. Going into panic mode never helps and can only make things worse. Instead, try to assess the situation and figure out what has been ingested so you can act accordingly. Here are some general guidelines to follow, but keep in mind that you should always consult with your veterinarian for advice tailored to your specific situation.It is imperative to stay calm. It's understandable to feel scared and panicked, but it's crucial to stay composed. Panicking can make it difficult to think clearly and take appropriate action. Take a deep breath, strengthen your resolve and act.Always try to identify the substance or item ingested, if it’s possible to do so very quickly. This information can be helpful for your veterinarian to provide accurate advice. Do you notice any small objects missing? Any open containers or something similar? Quickly try to find the clues.It goes without saying that it is always crucial to call your veterinarian immediately. Provide them with details about what your dog ingested, the amount, and any symptoms your dog is experiencing. After all, they are professionals who know how to deal with these situations in an efficient manner and will give you the guidelines suited to your situation.Keep in mind not to induce vomiting. Inducing vomiting can be dangerous in some situations and should only be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. Certain substances or items can cause more harm if brought back up. Unless instructed otherwise, don’t do it.Disperse with the panic and fears, and follow the advice of your veterinarian to the letter. Your veterinarian will provide specific instructions based on the substance ingested. Follow their advice carefully, whether it involves inducing vomiting, administering activated charcoal, or other measures.It is important to monitor your dog and their behavior. Keep a close eye on them for any changes in behavior, signs of distress, or dangerous symptoms. Be prepared to provide this information to your veterinarian. Sometimes, nothing will show at first, but could later on. In some cases, your veterinarian may recommend immediate action, such as going to an emergency veterinary clinic. Follow their advice promptly, or if you see that your dog is in danger, do so as fast as possible.

Researchers Find Genetic Links Between Human and Canine Brain Tumors

In a groundbreaking study, researchers have discovered striking similarities between the most common type of brain tumor in dogs and humans - meningioma. These findings were published in the scientific journal Acta Neuropathologica. Until now, scientists struggled to find reliable experimental models to understand the biology of and develop effective treatments for these tumors. But thanks to these newly discovered similarities, doctors will be able to use a classification system that identifies these aggressive tumors in humans and pooches.“The discovery that naturally occurring canine tumors closely resemble their human counterparts opens numerous avenues of exploring the biology of these challenging tumors,” said Dr. Akash Patel, an associate professor of neurosurgery at Baylor College of Medicine and principal investigator at the Jan and Dan Duncan Neurological Research Institute (Duncan NRI) at Texas Children’s Hospital. “It also provides opportunities for developing and studying novel treatments applicable to both humans and dogs,” he added.During the study, researchers analyzed 62 dog meningiomas from 27 breeds and found that the tumors were remarkably similar to the same kinds of tumors in humans. To this date, this is the largest study of the gene expression profiles of the canine meningioma. Others, including Dr. Jonathan Levine, a VMBS professor and the head of the Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences (VSCS), and Dr. Tiemo Klisch, assistant professor at Baylor College of Medicine and Principal Investigator at Duncan NRI, were involved in the study along Dr. Patel. Meanwhile, assistant professor Dr. Beth Boudreau was a key collaborator. Previous work done by Levine, Boudreau, and others at VMBS, which found similarities between gliomas - the second most common type of brain tumors - in humans and dogs, was instrumental for Patel’s study. “We ended up agreeing to provide Patel with canine tumor samples we had worked years and years to achieve, to see if he could isolate the RNA, which is not always easy to do,” said Levine, in a statement. “He was able to produce this very robust data set that showed a similar pattern structure to human tumors. Our team also provided Dr. Patel with key clinical outcome data, including responses to certain treatments.”Now that the researchers have found a link between brain tumors in humans and dogs they hope to establish clinical trials to continue their research. Setting up this type of clinical trial can take several years of planning and requires funding.“We are really interested in creating wins for both human and animal medicine,” said Levine. “For example, we hope to give dog owners access to therapy that’s not available anywhere else in the world through clinical trials. At the same time, that information will also inform the next step of human trials.”As it happens, another group of researchers from the University of California, Davis, conducted a similar study with matching results about meningioma in humans and dogs. This study was also published in the scientific journal Acta Neuropathologica.Now, the two research groups plan to collaborate in the future and share their findings to develop treatment options for both human and canine brain tumors. “If we do one trial, we’d be able to enroll patients a lot more quickly, which would make it easier to get larger data sets resulting in stronger findings. So we have a lot of interest in doing a collaborative trial,” added Levine. “We really see the team out in California as potential partners.” Thanks to this groundbreaking research, scientists now have a better understanding of brain tumors and are one step closer to developing life-saving treatments for both humans and dogs. Join the PetGuide community. Get the latest pet news and product recommendations by subscribing to our newsletter here.

Pregnant Dog Saved from Shipping Container by U.S. Coast Guard

Members of the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston got a big surprise when they found a dog trapped inside a shipping container. While inspecting the containers, Lucas Loe, Bryan Wainscott, Jose Reyes, and Ryan McMahon heard scratching and barking coming from inside one of them. After bringing the container down to ground level—it had been roughly 25 feet up—they opened it to find an adorable dog desperate to get out.A Dog Rescued Against All OddsThe poor dog had been stuck in that container, which had junked vehicles and was set to be shipped overseas, for at least eight days without any food or water. How she got in there in the first place is a mystery, but they think she might’ve been in one of the cars that was put in the container.What makes this story even more incredible is the fact that there were thousands of shipping containers along with the one that the friendly dog was trapped in, so she’s very lucky that the inspectors heard her and rescued her in time. They named her Connie, and her story quickly went viral. She’s even referred to as Connie the Container Dog. A video posted on Facebook shows her rescue.According to a U.S. Coast Guard Heartland Facebook post, Connie was thrilled and grateful to be free, but she was also tired and hungry. She was taken to Pasadena Animal Shelter to be examined before being flown to Forever Changed Animal Rescue (FCAR) in the Washington, D.C. metro area. She was diagnosed with heartworm and was found to be underweight.A New Discovery: Connie the Container Dog Is PregnantAfter her rescuers noticed that Connie’s mammary glands were swollen, they worried that she’d given birth to and lost her puppies while she was trapped in the container. But an ultrasound revealed that she is indeed pregnant.Once she’s healed and ready to be adopted, Connie will be looking for a forever home. And her puppies will also be looking for homes once they’re old enough. In the meantime, she’ll stay with a veterinarian who will keep a close eye on her and make sure that she and her puppies are doing well.To keep up with Connie’s journey, you can follow FCAR’s Facebook page.You can also watch this video to see Connie and her rescuers:

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