Do Rabbits Eat Lavender

Lavender is a common name given to the various flowering plants that belong to the genus Lavandula under Lamiaceae, the mint family.  Its flowers may be violet, lilac or blue. 

Native to the Canary Islands, Cape Verde, Europe, north and eastern Africa, China, southwest Asia and southern parts of India this plant is used as a culinary herb, commercial essential oil extraction, and as for landscaping or ornamental purposes. 

Can rabbits eat lavender? 

Fresh lavender has carbs, minerals such as iron and calcium, vitamin A and C among other nutrients. Furthermore, the various phytochemicals and antioxidants it has especially limonene that is known to stimulate digestion, as well as caffeic acid among others, make this plant healthy to human beings. 

What about rabbits, do rabbits eat lavender and is it safe or toxic? Yes. Rabbits can eat lavender [1][21]. It is one of the safe, aromatic shrubs you can give this pet. It is not toxic or harmful. Other similarly safe herbs include safe, dill, parsley, oregano, basil, peppermint, lemon balm, among others.  

However, due to its strong scent, flavor, and prickliness, it is not one of the plants that these animals like together with others such as gooseberry, Oregon grape, juniper, holly, jojoba [3]among others. 

Therefore, do not be surprised if your bunny does not like this herb especially due to its strong scent and taste. However, not liking it does not mean it is not safe or toxic. They just dislike them. 

Furthermore, it is listed as one of the bunny resistant plants together with black-eyed Susan. However, having these plants will not deter your bunnies from your garden completely. 

If your bunny likes it, you can let it have a small amount. The best scenario will be mixing it with other non-leafy greens. Simply chop 4-6 other leafy greens besides lavender and mix them together. A chopped cup of this mixture will be enough for a bunny weighing about one kilogram. 

Conclusion 

Lavender is not toxic or poisonous to bunnies. However, due to its strong taste and scent, it is one of the herbs these animals tend to avoid. 

Finally, remember to provide unlimited hay such as Small Pet Select 2nd Cutting "Perfect Blend" Timothy Hay and clean, freshwater since hay makes the larger part of this pet's diet.