Kiwis – the furry, bright green fruits full of vitamin C that many people enjoy as a tasty snack. But what about our rabbit companions? Can these little fuzzballs safely indulge in kiwi as well? Is this brilliant green treat a nutritious addition to a rabbit’s diet or a potential health hazard? What portions are appropriate? Should you feed the skin and seeds too? How will kiwi impact your rabbit’s sensitive digestive system? Grab some kiwi slices and hop on over as we dive into the juicy details of whether rabbits can enjoy this tantalizing fruit. We’ll explore the potential benefits and risks so you can make informed decisions regarding kiwi for your bunny.

Are Kiwis Good For Rabbits?

Kiwis can be a nutritious and safe treat for rabbits in moderation. Here are some of the potential benefits of feeding kiwi to rabbits:

High in Vitamin C – Kiwis are an excellent source of vitamin C, which supports immune function and wound healing. Rabbits, like humans, cannot produce their own vitamin C so they must get it from food sources.
Provides Antioxidants – Kiwis contain antioxidants like vitamin C, vitamin E, lutein, and carotenoids. These compounds help protect cells from damage and inflammation.
May Support Digestion – Kiwis have a high fiber content. Fiber aids digestion in rabbits by promoting gut motility.
Contains Essential Nutrients – In addition to vitamin C, kiwis provide rabbits with small amounts of vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids. Key nutrients include potassium, vitamin K, vitamin E, folate, and copper.
Contains Low Sugar – Kiwis are relatively low in sugar compared to other fruits, with about 15 grams of sugar per kiwi. This makes them less likely to cause digestive upset.
Provides Antibacterial Effects – Kiwis have been shown to boost immunity and inhibit the growth of certain bacteria due to compounds like actinidain and lignin.
Good Source of Fluids – The high water content in kiwis can help rabbits stay hydrated.
Offers Variety – Kiwis can add more flavor, texture, color, and nutritional variety to a rabbit's diet.

Kiwis are not toxic or poisonous to rabbits. The fuzzy outer peel and small black seeds of a kiwi are edible and safe for rabbits to consume.

In fact, kiwis contain only minor amounts of oxalates so they do not pose a significant risk of causing bladder stones or kidney damage in healthy rabbits. Oxalates are more concentrated in the peel than the flesh.

It's best to introduce kiwis slowly and in small quantities to allow a rabbit's digestive system to adjust. Offer just a teaspoon initially and gradually increase to a few cubes. The high fiber content can cause loose stools if too much is fed too quickly.

When fed in moderation as part of a balanced diet, kiwis can provide nutritional value and be a yummy treat that rabbits enjoy. The recommended serving size is just 1-2 cubes of kiwi flesh two to three times per week at most.

Are Kiwis Dangerous?

While kiwis are not inherently dangerous for rabbits, there are some potential risks with feeding kiwi that rabbit owners should be aware of:

Diarrhea or digestive upset – Since kiwis contain a lot of fiber and natural sugars, eating too much at once can overwhelm a rabbit’s sensitive digestive tract and cause soft stools or diarrhea. To avoid this, introduce kiwi slowly in small amounts.

Allergic reaction – Some rabbits may have an allergy or sensitivity to kiwis. Monitor for symptoms like itching, hives, or swelling of the face/mouth after eating kiwi for the first time. Discontinue feeding if an allergic reaction is suspected.

Pesticides – Kiwis may be treated with pesticides and chemicals during growth and storage. Be sure to wash kiwis thoroughly before feeding to rabbits. Select organic kiwi when possible to minimize chemical exposure.

Choking hazard – Kiwis should always be diced into small pieces before feeding to rabbits to prevent choking on the flesh or seeds. Rabbits have small throats so chunks present a major choking risk.

High fiber interference – The high fiber content in kiwis could potentially inhibit the absorption of certain medications if given too close together. Allow at least a 1-2 hour gap between feeding kiwi and giving important medications.

Excess sugars – While low in sugar compared to other fruits, regular overfeeding of kiwi can lead to obesity, dental issues, and other health problems related to high sugar intake. Feed kiwi as a treat no more than 2-3 times per week.

Oxalates – Kiwis do contain low amounts of oxalates that could accumulate over time and potentially contribute to bladder or kidney stones in susceptible rabbits. Moderation is key.

Mold risk – Kiwi slices left uneaten in the enclosure can become moldy. Discard fresh kiwi after a few hours to avoid mold exposure. Dried kiwi is lower risk but should still be discarded daily.

With proper preparation, portion sizes, and frequency, kiwi can be fed safely. Owners should supervise rabbits when first offering kiwi and discontinue use if any intolerance is observed. Kiwis are a healthy treat but rabbits require a balanced diet with plenty of hay and leafy greens as the staple components.

How Much Kiwi Can A Rabbit Have?

Rabbits can eat a small amount of kiwi as an occasional treat. The recommended serving size is:

Baby rabbits under 6 months: A few tiny pieces of peeled kiwi, about 1/8 inch cube.
Medium rabbits 6-12 months: 1-2 cubes of kiwi, around 1/4 inch square.
Large adult rabbits: 2-4 cubes of kiwi, or 1-2 thin slices.

To minimize risk of diarrhea or digestive upset, limit kiwi treat sessions to no more than 2-3 times per week at most. Provide no more than 4 cubes or 2 thin slices per session.

Any uneaten fresh kiwi should be discarded after a few hours to avoid spoilage and mold growth. For convenience, some owners choose to freeze peeled kiwi pieces in an ice cube tray to thaw and serve later as needed.

If introducing kiwi for the first time, offer just a tiny piece and observe the rabbit's reaction over the next 24 hours before increasing the portion size.

Signs of eating too much kiwi may include loose stool, excess gas or gastrointestinal noise, reduced appetite at next meal, or lack of interest in eating the kiwi. If any of these occur, discontinue kiwi for at least a few weeks and try reintroducing more slowly in future.

While a nutritious fruit packed with vitamin C, kiwis should not become a diet staple or replace leafy greens and hay as the main components of a rabbit's diet. The treats should make up no more than 5-10% of total daily calories. Following these kiwi serving guidelines will help keep your bunny happy and healthy.

What Should You Watch Out For When You Give A Rabbit Kiwi?

When feeding kiwi to your pet rabbit for the first time or as an occasional treat, there are some important things to keep an eye out for:

Allergies – Monitor for itching, skin redness, swelling, watery eyes, runny nose, abnormal breathing, hives, diarrhea. Discontinue kiwi immediately if you suspect an allergic reaction.
Choking – Make sure kiwi is chopped into tiny pieces and watch your rabbit closely while eating to check for gagging, coughing, pawing at the mouth, or difficulty breathing.
Excessive consumption – Feed limited amounts and avoid free feeding to prevent overeating. Remove uneaten kiwi promptly.
Digestive issues – Look for reduced appetite, small and infrequent fecal poops, diarrhea, loud gastrointestinal sounds, or lethargy after eating kiwi as signs of stomach upset.
Stool consistency – Monitor litter box for overly soft, loose, or watery stools indicating too much kiwi or a need to remove kiwi from diet.
Oxalate complications – Discontinue kiwi if blood is evident in urine, straining or discomfort urinating, or lack of urine production as these may indicate bladder or kidney problems.
Pesticide residue – Thoroughly wash and peel non-organic kiwi to minimize chemicals.
Decayed kiwi – Do not feed kiwi that is overripe, bruised, or damaged to avoid mold and bacteria exposure.
Dehydration – Ensure your rabbit has unlimited access to clean water to offset the hydrating effects of juicy fruits like kiwi.
Dental issues – Avoid feeding high sugar fruits like kiwi excessively to reduce risk of dental disease.
Weight gain – Feed kiwi in moderation and account for extra calories in diet to prevent obesity.

Introduce kiwi slowly and remain attentive. Discontinue use immediately if adverse effects are observed. Consult an exotic vet if you have any concerns about your rabbit's tolerance of kiwi in their diet.

Can A Rabbit Eat Kiwi Skins?

While kiwi skins are technically edible for rabbits, most owners recommend peeling the fuzzy outer skin before feeding kiwi to rabbits. Here’s why:

The fuzzy hair-like texture of kiwi skins can cause intestinal irritation, discomfort, or blockages if large pieces are ingested by rabbits.
Kiwi skins have a much higher concentration of oxalic acid than the flesh. Oxalates can accumulate over time and potentially cause kidney/bladder stones.
The tart flavor and tough texture of the skin may deter rabbits from eating the kiwi or upset their sensitive digestive system.
Kiwi skins are very difficult for some rabbits to chew properly and may present a choking hazard.
Skins have a more concentrated pesticide residue compared to peeled fruit due to the nature of spraying fruits during growth. Washing does not eliminate all chemicals.
Peeling makes it easier to chop the kiwi into tiny pieces appropriate for a rabbit to safely chew and swallow.
Any mold, bruising, or imperfections on the skin are removed when peeled as these parts can harbor bacteria.

While not definitively dangerous, most rabbit owners find it is easier and safer to simply peel the kiwi before feeding to their pets. The flesh contains the majority of the nutrients rabbits need.

If you do wish to feed the fuzzy skin, be sure to wash it very thoroughly, chop into tiny pieces, feed in extreme moderation, and monitor your rabbit closely for any issues. Consult your vet to decide what's appropriate for your bunny.

Can A Rabbit Eat Kiwi Seeds?

Kiwi seeds are small, soft, and edible for rabbits. However, there are some factors to consider before feeding the seeds:

Size – The tiny seeds could potentially pose a choking risk. Be sure to chop kiwi into very small pieces if feeding the seeds.
Texture – The hard seeds may be awkward for some rabbits to chew and swallow. Removing the seeds may make kiwi easier to digest.
Oxalates – Like the skin, kiwi seeds contain higher oxalate concentrations than the flesh. Feed seeds sparingly to avoid excessive oxalates.
Allergies – Rabbits allergic to kiwis may react to the seeds. Monitor for symptoms like gastrointestinal upset.
Pesticides – Seeds may retain higher pesticide residues compared to the flesh. Wash kiwis thoroughly before feeding.
Nutrition – Seeds offer minimal nutritional value beyond what rabbit’s get from the flesh. They do not need to eat the seeds to gain benefits.

Some rabbits may Pass seeds undigested in their stool. This is not necessarily cause for concern as long as the rabbit is acting normal otherwise.

While not toxic, kiwi seeds provide little health benefit and may present risks. Kiwi flesh has the nutrition rabbits need without the seeds. You can feed the seeds in tiny amounts if desired, but be cautious and attentive to your rabbit’s reaction and stool quality. Consult your vet for advice about your particular rabbit.

Can A Rabbit Eat Dried Kiwi?

Dried kiwi is safe for rabbits to eat in moderation. Here are some key considerations when feeding dried kiwi to rabbits:

Hydration – Dried fruit is highly dehydrating and rabbits require a constant supply of fresh water when consuming any dried treats.
Dental health – The sticky, chewy texture of dried fruit can be problematic for rabbit teeth. Brush teeth regularly and limit dried fruit treats.
Portion size – A single piece of dried kiwi is equivalent to many cubes of fresh kiwi. Reduce portions to account for condensed calories and sugar in dried form.
Diarrhea risk – Dried fruit is very concentrated. Too much can loosen stools. Introduce slowly and watch for digestive upset.
Processing methods – Some dried fruits are preserved with sulfur dioxide or other preservatives that may be unsuitable for rabbits. Check the ingredients.
Storage – Dried kiwi should be kept sealed and refrigerated or frozen to prevent spoilage, mold growth, and attraction of pests. Discard if signs of decay.
Added sugars – Some processed brands of dried fruit contain added sugars, oils, and flavorings. Select unsweetened products or make your own dried kiwi slices.

As with any treat, dried kiwi should make up no more than 10% of a rabbit’s diet. Feed just a bite-sized piece 2-3 times per week at most for a yummy fruit-based snack. Stop feeding if soft stools develop and consult your exotic vet if you have any concerns.

In Summary

Kiwis can be a nutritious and safe treat when fed to rabbits in moderation. Owners should introduce kiwi slowly, watch for any signs of intolerance, and limit servings to 1-2 cubes 2-3 times per week at most. While the skin, seeds, and dried kiwi are technically edible, the prepared fresh kiwi flesh is often easiest and safest for rabbits to digest. With proper precautions, kiwi can provide beneficial nutrition to complement a rabbit’s regular diet. Monitor your rabbit’s health closely and discontinue kiwi at the first sign of any adverse reaction.

References:

https://rabbitbreeders.us/questions-and-answers/can-rabbits-eat-kiwi/
https://www.onlinerabbitcare.com/questions-and-answers/can-rabbits-eat-kiwi/