Rice refers to cereal grains or seeds of a grass that belongs to the family Gramineae. Its most popular species is Oryza sativa (Asian), others being Oryza glaberrima (African), O. rufipogon, among others.
Rice is a popular cereal grain and a staple food in many parts of the world. Typical dishes include Nasi goring, Risotto, Jollof, Tahdig, Mansaf, Jambalaya, Champorado, Paella, etcetera.
Nutritionally, cooked rice has about 68% water, 28% proteins, 3% proteins as well as other nutrients like manganese, vitamin B, as well as other nutrients in small quantities.
Can bunnies eat rice?
No. Bunnies should not eat rice, including cooked, raw, rice cakes, noodles, syrup, milk, cracker, puffed, dumplings, or anything made from this cereal grain. It joins other foods like bread, cookies, pasta, crackers, pretzels, as well as other grains and cereals that are unhealthy for bunnies.
You probably have questions as to rice isn’t right for these pets. The answer lies in understanding their digestive system and typical foods and not because it is poisonous.
Bunnies are hindgut fermenters who rely on high fiber, low fats, and carbohydrate foods like grass hay, the likes of orchard, meadow, and the famous timothy hay. These hays are high in fiber aids in digestion and gut motility but low in carbohydrates and proteins.
On the other hand, this cereal grain is a high carbohydrate food. Since bunnies are not adapted to eat such kind of food, it is likely to cause an imbalance in their gut microflora. This imbalance can lead to tummy problems like diarrhea, GI stasis, and so forth.
If while eating it, if a few grains fall and your bunny eats it, you don’t have to worry, such a small amount is unlikely to cause any severe problems. However, avoid giving your rabbits a lot of this grain even if he or she seems to enjoy eating it.
Rice straws
In rice-growing areas, these straws are popular foraging for various domestic animals. However, unlike hay, which is nutrient-rich, straws have minimal nutrients and will minimally benefit your furry critter.
Instead, use these straws as bedding in your cages since they are safe and straightforward to clean. Furthermore, even if they eat these straws, they won’t harm them.
Stick to recommended foods
As a bunny owner, you deserve to know what their ideal diet should have. These animals should have an unlimited supply of grassy hay and not leguminous ones like alfalfa and clovers as they are high in proteins and calcium.
Secondly, 10-15% of their diet should be veggies and greens, while commercial pellets should account for about 5% of their daily ration.
Finally, don’t forget to give them access to clean, fresh drinking water always.
i fed my rabbit rice accidently what should i do now
Don’t worry. It is unlikely to harm your furry friend. Just monitor for any abnormal signs. Was it cooked or raw rice?