Many people wonder that is sunflower seeds are safe and good for the bunnies. Sunflower seeds are good snacks for humans and many people asked whether these seeds can be consumed by the bunnies. The amount and number of time in which these foods can be given is also asked. This blog will completely cover the answer to each and everything in detail.
Sunflower seeds are safe for the bunnies and they have no toxic effect on the rabbits. However. A high quantity of fat is present in the seeds of the sunflowers and it is recommended to give only a small amount of sunflower seeds to the rabbits. Also, we recommend using Black oil sunflower seeds instead of normal striped sunflower seeds because they are small and do not cause choking to the rabbit.
Are Sunflower seeds safe for Rabbits?
Yes, Sunflower seeds are perfectly safe for rabbits and they have no toxins in their seeds and seed shells. Therefore, you can give your rabbits sunflower seeds occasionally. Also, if your rabbit has consumed a small amount of sunflowers, it is perfectly fine to swallow a few grams of sunflowers. They are crunchy and good for the health of the rabbits.
Are sunflower seeds good and healthy for the bunnies
To understand the perfection and suitability of any food item we have to see the nutritional value of the element and compare it to the dietary needs of the rabbits. On average, the rabbit needs high fibre which comes from hay and a small amount of snacks or green leaves are perfect. Let’s observe the sunflower seeds in detail
Dietary and nutritional value of sunflower
| Nutritional value per 100 g (3.5 oz) | |
| Energy | 2,445 kJ (584 kcal) |
| Carbohydrates | 20 g |
| Sugars | 2.62 g |
| Dietary fiber | 8.6 g |
| Protein | 20.78 g |
| Fat | 51.46 g |
The graph shows that sunflower seeds have low dietary fibers but high fat and protein ratio in their seeds.
Ration of other Items
- Vitamins:
- Vitamin E: 7.4mg (49% of the Recommended Daily Allowance, RDA)
- Thiamin (Vitamin B1), Niacin (Vitamin B3), Vitamin B6, and Folate (Vitamin B9) in smaller quantities
- Minerals:
- Copper: 0.6mg (68% of RDA)
- Magnesium: 10% of RDA
- Phosphorus: 31% of RDA
- Manganese: 0.7mg (31% of RDA)
- Selenium: 35% of RDA
- Also contains Zinc, Iron, and Potassium in smaller amounts
What are the benefits of Sunflower Seeds?
AntiOxident: Selenium and Vitamin E are the major components present in sunflower seeds. These elements act as antioxidants and protect plants from different diseases. It also helps the bunnies improve their immune system
High Protein: Sunflower seeds have a high amount of protein which makes them perfect for rabbits. Protein makes up the major portion of bones and other neurons. It also helps in building the muscles and gives strength to the rabbit.
Why Sunflower seeds are not a regular diet?
Rabbits need dietary fibers
You should always remember that rabbits are dietary fibre hungry and they need them every day. Their stomach is small and sensitive and they should be fed with strong fabric food. Sunflower seeds have low dietary fibers and therefore you should avoid food that is low in dietary fibers
Sunflower seeds have large oil concentration
Another issue with the sunflower is that it has a high amount of sunflower seeds which is dangerous for them. High oil and fats can coagulate the blood and disturb the digestive tract. Remember, rabbit stomachs are different from humans and they need different diets and their oil digestion is slow. Therefore, avoid giving large amounts of sunflower seeds to the bunnies
Sunflowers are not an issue, overfeeding is
You should understand that sunflowers can be given as snacks and there is no issue with it. You can feed a few grams of sunflower seeds and give it around 2-3 times a week and your rabbit will love it. However, if you try to feed a large amount of it to the rabbits. They will not like it and their stomach will collapse. Overfeeding can lead to stomach and digestion issues which is not food for the rabbits.
Black Oil Vs Stripped Sunflower seed: Which one is better for Rabbits
There are two types of sunflower seeds and both of them are not good for rabbits. Striped sunflower seeds are thicker and they have strong shells. Striped sunflower seeds are not good for the rabbits because their strong shells force the rabbits to swallow and they can not chew it properly. When the seed is swallowed, there is a chance that it might stuck in the pylorus. They can stuck there and can cause strong blockage which is not good for the rabbits.
On the other hand, black sunflower is the perfect diet for the rabbits and they can easily be chewed and their softer shell is perfectly safe for the rabbits. They have more fiber and their dietary subjects match with the rabbits. Therefore, feed the black oil sunflowers to the bunnies
Rabbits are attracted to the smell of Sunflower seeds
You have seen that birds often love to sit on the sunflower plant and eat it. This is because of the smell of sunflower seeds. Rabbits are also attracted to the sunflower plant and seeds. It will enjoy the sunflower seed.
If you have wild rabbits in your backyard, they can eat as much as they can. However, for domestic rabbits, you should act with caution and give only a small amount of sunflower seeds.
Are salted sunflower seeds safe for rabbits??
No, you should not feed the salted sunflower seeds to the rabbits. Many packages gave salted sunflower seeds. These seeds are not safe because salt can cause damage to the organs of the rabbits
Also, rabbits do not like the taste of salt. So, there is a chance that the rabbit himself stops eating them after taking a bite. You should wash them and dry them before giving them to the rabbits again. This will be much better than for the health of rabbits.
How much amount of sunflower is safe for the rabbits
You should apply the 5 per cent rule which means it can be given up to 5 per cent of body weight and it will be given 2-3 time maximum in one week. Excess of it can cause issues therefore stick with moderation and simplicity.
Temperature Factor and Sunflower seed feeding
Sunflower seeds have heat effects and they can cause an increase in the body temperature. In the hot regions of America and Australia, do not feed the sunflower seeds if the temperature is above 25 degrees Celsius. In the cold regions and during the winter, seeds are the perfect diet which will not not only provide warmth but also give them energy.
FAQs
Is the shell of Sunflower seeds good for rabbits?
Yes, there is no need to remove the shell of sunflower seeds because they are crunchy and have dietary fibers. They also are hard which is good for the rabbits. Rabbits like the seeds with the shell and they can easily digest the shell. Therefore, no need to remove them.
Can rabbits eat sunflower leaves and petals?
Yes, sunflower leaves and petals are safe for rabbits and they can eat it like any other plant. They are green and rich in nutrients which is safe for bunnies
Can rabbits eat sunflower leaves and petals?
Yes, sunflower sprouts and stems are good for rabbits and they can eat them easily. The plant of sunflower is good for the rabbits and bunnies.
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