Ripe watermelons are a very refreshing fruit in summer as they contain around 95% water. On hot days there is a great temptation to let pets share in this sweet refreshment.
Can rabbits eat watermelon?
Rabbits can eat watermelon in small quantities because it is not harmful as a small change in their diet. Pay attention to the origin of the melon and remove the rind before feeding it. A chilled melon is particularly appreciated.
Slowly get rabbits used to new food
Rabbits are like people, many have their own taste and are not at all enthusiastic about certain foods. Since watermelon is generally not harmful as a low-dose variety on the menu, you can test whether your rabbit eats it with a small piece. Sometimes it can take a while for curiosity to overcome fear of the unknown, so keep putting fresh pieces of watermelon in the food bowl for a few days, even if the fruit isn't sniffed and accepted the first time.
Pay attention to the origin and variety
Since growing watermelons requires growing the seeds or, ideally, a greenhouse, the watermelon to be fed will usually be a specimen bought in the supermarket. In this country, commercial watermelons often come from the following countries:
- Spain
- Hungary
- Türkiye
- Iran
If you are unsure whether the fruit has been sprayed in any way, you should remove the green peel before feeding to be on the safe side. You should also choose the Crimson Sweet variety over Sugar Baby because of its lower sugar content.
It depends on the quantity
Since watermelons contain a lot of water and a certain amount of sugar, they should only be fed to rabbits in small quantities. Otherwise, diarrhea and other digestive irregularities may occur.
Tips & Tricks
Rodents also appreciate the refreshing effect of a watermelon even more if it has previously been kept cool in the cellar or refrigerator.
