can rabbits eat figs? | Side effects of figs for bunnies

One of the most common questions regarding rabbit food is whether can rabbits eat figs. The answer is yes but figs are highly dangerous for rabbits given in large amounts because of the high sugar content and sweet temptation. Therefore, only a small amount of that too once a week is recommended. This article explains the fig’s diet to the rabbits. 

What are the nutritional elements in the figs

Water: Figs are 79 percent and it has a large amount of water 

Carbohydrate: It contains 19 percent of carbohydrates which makes it sweet and addictive

Protein and fats: It has an insignificant amount of fats and protein in their fruits 

 

Nutrition per 100 grams

 

Carbohydrate	19.2g
Protein	0.8
Fats	0.3
Energy	310kJ

 

Source Wikipedia 

Why it is bad for the rabbits and bunnies 

 

Stomach bloating gas:  It has a high amount of sugar in it that causes many stomach issues. Also, it is rich in acids and low-pH juices that can increase the acidity in the stomach leading to diarroha and loose stool. It also creates the gases and can cause bloating in the stomach of rabbits. Therefore, it should not be given in high amount

Sweetness addiction: Figs are highly sweet and often hit the temptation in the sweet tooth of the rabbit. This leads to the overeating due to sweetness. Overeating of figs can cause obesity and heart diseases

Bad for sick, old, and young rabbits:  Many veterinarians have suggested the less use of figs for older and sich rabbits due to their digestive nature. It can react with the digestive system causing many diseases. Also, if your rabbit is sick and is on the medication. Avoid the use of figs by him

Choking nature: This hazard is related to the branches of figs which are hard and can choke the rabbit. Therefore, only leave should be given to the rabbits. 

What is the right amount of fig diet for rabbits? 

  Figs should be given once a week as a treat and should not be left near rabbits. It should not be more than 50g. These are highly addictive and once your rabbits start eating them, they will overeat and cause many issues.

 

What are the benefits of figs? 

 Figs are not toxic but it has just over-eating related issues. If an appropriate amount is given, it is the perfect diet for the rabbits. Figs are mentioned in the Bible and Quran, even Buddha achieved spirituality under a fig tree. Therefore, it has many benefits both spiritually and physically 

 

Boost in immunity: Figs are high in antioxidants that help in fighting germs and improves the immune system of rabbits

Presence of metals:  Figs has a good amount of potassium and manganese which improves the hair, skin tone, and bone strength of the rabbits 

Vitamins: Figs are high are vitamins and it has vitamin B in excess which makes it a perfect diet. 

Insulin balance:  Figs are 19 percent carbohydrate which means it has high insulin and can balance the sugar in the blood of the rabbit

Can rabbits eat figs leave

Fig leaves are safe for the rabbits and they can given to them easily. It has no negative impact but you should introduce it to the rabbits along with other leaves because they might hate it at first. You should give the leave which has no branches as a rabbit might choke on the branch. Also, clean the leaves because figs are often spread with chemicals that might be present on the leaves. Thus, it is perfect for the rabbits

 

Can rabbits eat dried figs

Dried figs have the same properties as the fig because only water is removed but it has a similar amount of carbohydrates and fats. Thus, all the precautions that are mentioned above should be taken before feeding the rabbit. 

FAQs

 

What are the alternatives to Figs? 

 Berries such as blackberries are the perfect alternative to figs 

Can I feed young rabbits figs? 

Yes, but you should be cautious about the amount of feed