Rabbits aren’t picky about their food. Rabbits are often bored and will spend the time by gnawing on everything they come across. Any paper in a rabbit’s hutch will almost certainly be devoured.
If your rabbit consumes too much paper, it will get unwell. Rabbits have unique nutritional requirements. They require a lot of dietary fiber.
No, rabbits cannot eat paper. Shredded paper and newspaper have no fiber. They are unable to effectively digest paper. This may result in constipation and intestinal obstructions.
This isn’t to say that rabbits should never be let near paper. Rabbits have a natural need to dig, and paper will provide them the chance to do so. Rabbits also love doing time-consuming jobs, which shredding paper may give.
In this article we will inform you why your rabbit shouldn’t consume paper. So, keep reading!
Why Is My Rabbit Eating Paper?
Rabbits are more likely to enjoy playing with paper than eating it. Rabbits need stimulation and are always on the lookout for a long-term challenge.
This isn’t to say that your rabbit won’t consume the paper after it’s through. It’s possible that your rabbit is eating paper because it’s hungry. If this is the case, make sure your pet has access to new hay on a regular basis.
Your rabbit’s diet may also be low in fiber. As a result, they look for it in unusual places, such as paper and cardboard. Your pet’s nutritional requirements will not be met by paper.
It’s possible that your rabbit is eating the paper because he’s bored. Exercise, toys, and social connection are all necessary for a bunny’s stimulation. If your rabbit is left alone, he or she is likely to grow agitated.
When in uncertainty, a rabbit will occupy itself by chewing on objects. They’ll locate wires and furniture to eat if they have free reign of the house.
A rabbit will make do with whatever they can find in the constraints of a hutch. That’s what they’ll have access to, since many pet owners cover their bunnies’ houses with newspaper or shredded paper.
Will Eating Paper Make My Rabbit Sick?
Yes, eating paper may make your rabbit sick. A modest sum of paper should not have a significant influence. The majority of rabbits will rip the paper into tiny enough fragments to be digested.
Too much paper may be harmful to a rabbit’s health. Paper is not edible and there are no health advantages to consuming it.
A rabbit’s stomach is built to digest fibrous green meals like grass. Neither of these are true of paper. If your rabbit consumes too much of it, they may get unwell.
The most serious complication of a rabbit ingesting paper is intestinal obstruction. The digestive system of a rabbit does not break down paper. It may cause constipation if not taken in little bits and volumes.
Rabbits may die from constipation. Among the signs and symptoms are:
- Your rabbit refuses to eat their food or hay.
- The stomach of your rabbit is noticeably bloated.
- Your rabbit is hunched down. This is evident of distress in his stomach.
Consult a veterinarian if you notice any of these symptoms. Constipation may quickly escalate into a medical emergency.
How Can I Stop My Rabbit From Eating Paper?
Keeping paper out of a rabbit’s house is the best approach to prevent them from devouring it. Paper, on the other hand, is a common material for lining a rabbit hutch. Newspapers are very popular.
The following are examples of alternative linings for a rabbit’s home:
- Wood Pellets
- Sawdust
- Pine Shavings
If you’re going to employ these substrates, make sure you have lots of airflow. While popular, these materials have been related to liver illness and lung problems. They have a lower chance of harming your rabbit.
Providing for your rabbit’s basic requirements will lessen the likelihood of their consuming paper. This involves giving your rabbit lots of hay to eat, which will provide them with fiber.
You should also ensure that your rabbit enjoys a thriving social life. If rabbits are left alone, they get bored and unhappy. They’ll eat to fill the gap.
Toys are also essential to a rabbit’s well-being. If your rabbit has plenty of toys to keep them occupied, they’ll be far less inclined to consume paper. Fill their house with chewables and hiding places.
Can Rabbits Eat Newspapers?
Because it is affordable and easily accessible in huge numbers, newspapers are a popular material for lining rabbit hutches. Some individuals like the concept of reading their morning newspaper and then recycling it by lining their rabbit’s hutch with it.
However, you may watch your rabbit shredding and devouring the paper. You may also question whether rabbits can eat newspapers if you do this.
No, rabbits should not eat newspapers. In general, rabbits should avoid eating paper since it might cause life-threatening gastrointestinal disorders. The print ink on newspapers may be petroleum-based. They may include compounds that are poisonous to rabbits.
Can Rabbits Eat Paper With Ink?
Recycling bills and documents in your rabbit’s house gives you a sense of accomplishment. It’s also safer than tossing sensitive information in the garbage.
However, you’ll need to be cautious with the ink you use on this paper. Small animals are poisoned by certain inks. Even though most contemporary inks are now safer, it’s best to be cautious than sorry.
No, rabbits cannot eat paper with ink. Pamphlets and booklets contain the most hazardous ink for rabbits. Cheaper, possibly more harmful ink is likely to be used in mass-produced communications.
It’s also worth noting that ink may stain your rabbit’s hair. If your pet is white, it’s possible that they won’t remain that way if they eat paper that contains ink.
Is Newspaper Ink Poisonous For Rabbits?
Newspapers are still the most common kind of paper used in rabbit cages. However, newspapers are printed using environmentally friendly ink. Inks that used to be made using petroleum are now more often made with soy and water.
Yes, newspaper ink is poisonous to rabbits. Petroleum-based ink that is used in papers never dries completely. It’s not a good idea to use these inks to line your rabbit’s cage.
Can You Put Shredded Paper In A Rabbit Hutch?
Yes, you can put shredded paper in a hutch. Shredded paper is safer than intact paper in several ways. It will already be broken down into tiny pieces. This implies that if your rabbit swallows the paper, an intestinal obstruction is less probable.
In addition, the shredded paper will reduce ink exposure. The ink is equally spread in minute quantities after the paper has been shredded.
Despite this, using just shredded paper as a substrate is dangerous. We recommend that you only use shredded paper under straw or hay.
One alternative is to give your rabbit safe paper to shred on its own. This will be enjoyed by a large number of bunnies. It provides them something to do, and the shreds may be used to make nests.
Can Rabbits Eat Paper Bags?
For rabbits, paper bags are a lot of fun. These objects may be used to decorate a rabbit’s cage and as toys. Within the paper bag, your rabbit may gnaw, tear, and hide.
No, rabbits cannot eat paper bags. It’s difficult to digest a paper bag. They’re large and has the potential to upset your rabbit’s stomach.
Stuffing a paper bag with hay or straw for your pet bunny is the best method. This will enable your bunny to take advantage of all the bag has to offer while also providing a secure food supply.
There’s nothing wrong with your rabbit playing with a paper bag, but proceed with caution. Take it away if they seem more interested in eating the bag than their normal meal.
Is Cardboard Safe For Rabbits To Eat?
No, it is not safe for rabbits to eat cardboard. It is thicker and more durable than paper. This makes cardboard even more difficult to digest.
Thankfully, this means your rabbit will be less inclined to consume too much cardboard. They’ll be too exhausted to eat since they’ll have spent so much time and energy chewing and trashing.
For a rabbit, cardboard makes a terrific homemade toy that will keep them occupied for hours. Simply keep an eye on your pet.
It is, however, beneficial for your bunny to chew cardboard. It amuses your rabbit while also preventing their teeth from becoming too sharp. Eating it, on the other hand, is potentially harmful and should be avoided.
What matters is that your rabbit enjoys himself by playing with cardboard rather than eating it. Your rabbit will get nothing beneficial out of eating paper.
Can Rabbits Eat Toilet Paper Rolls?
No, rabbits cannot eat toilet paper rolls. Toilet paper is the least hazardous to a rabbit’s intestines of all the types of paper available. That doesn’t necessarily imply that it’s healthy for your rabbit.
It’s hardly the end of the world if they gnaw on a corner of toilet paper. This substance will compact into a significantly smaller ball than a standard sheet of paper. Your rabbit will be able to pass more easily as a result of this.
When you’re done with a toilet roll, the tube makes an excellent rabbit toy. It will be fun for your pet to gnaw on it and push it about their hutch.
You may also stuff the toilet paper tube with hay, straw, or snacks. You could even use sticks to build a makeshift toy out of the toilet paper tube.
Can Bunnies Eat Paper Towels?
No, rabbits cannot eat paper towels. It might be difficult for your rabbit to digest a thick and absorbent kitchen towel.
The cardboard that paper towels are wrapped around provides a flexible plaything. However, make sure all traces of paper towel are gone before giving it to your rabbit.
Paper towels should be avoided at all costs. These may be useful to your rabbit for a variety of reasons.
A paper towel may be used as a temporary blanket or shredded for entertainment. It is poisonous if consumed.
This is due to the fact that paper towels are rough and difficult to swallow. A rabbit may happily chew for an extended amount of time. However, he will have a hard time digesting napkins.
Furthermore, most napkins are highly colored for ornamental purposes. Keep rabbits away from this dye unless you’re certain it’s safe for them.
Are Toilet Paper Rolls Safe For Bunnies?
Yes, toilet paper rolls are safe for bunnies to play with. An empty toilet paper roll is one of the safest toys for your busy rabbit. You may also load the toilet paper roll with hay.
While eating and chewing on the cardboard tube, this will keep your pet happy and occupied for hours. Simply cram the hay in firmly to provide a more demanding environment for your rabbit.
Other meals may also be stuffed within the toilet paper roll. This will also provide diversity to his diet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is It Okay For Bunnies To Eat Cardboard?
No, it is not okay for bunnies to eat cardboard. Cardboard contains cellulose, which is a major component of the leaves and vegetables that pet rabbits consume. This is probably why they like it so much. Hay, green leafy vegetables, and clean water should still make up the majority of their diet.
Why Does My Bunny Stare At Me?
Rabbits look at their owners for a variety of reasons. Most of the time, though, it is out of fear, curiosity, or a desire to interact with you. Unless they are unconscious, there is always a motive behind their actions. Rabbits have unusual eyelids that allow them to sleep with their eyes open.
What Smells Do Rabbits Hate?
The fragrance of predator musk or urine is replicated in most commercially produced rabbit repellents. Crushed red peppers, ammonia, vinegar, and garlic are also repulsive to rabbits.
Final Words
Newspaper is a cost-effective method to line a rabbit’s hutch. However, you must decide if the convenience is worth the risk to your rabbit’s health.
If you absolutely must use newspaper as a bedding for your bunny, ensure the ink on the paper is non-toxic.
Also, make sure your rabbit eats a high-fiber diet and has enough food and toys in his or her hutch. Ensure that your bunny has plenty of social contact from you or another rabbit.
If you have any more doubts and queries regarding your bunny’s weird eating habits, drop them in the comment section below. We will answer them soon!
