No, definitely not. Your rabbit should not eat cheese, or any dairy products, even in the smallest of quantities.
Dairy products are not poisonous to our pets the same way that some other foods are, but they are extremely unhealthy.
Rabbits have not evolved to eat dairy, and their digestive systems are really only able to manage vegetation.
Why is eating cheese bad for rabbits?
- Lactobacillus is the bacteria from dairy products, which rabbits cannot digest properly and are likely to cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, and possibly gas buildup.
- The important thing to remember is that rabbits cannot vomit, so they are a bit stuck when they have a stomach upset.
- Dairy products can cause bloating, gas, indigestion, and diarrhea.
- Cheese is high in sugar and fat (cholesterol, calories).
- Cheese also contains lactose, which adult rabbits cannot digest.
- It has too much calcium, which can cause a block in the urinal system. With time, it can cause kidney stones.
- Cheese is low in fiber and has a mushy texture that a rabbit’s digestive system cannot handle very well.
What To Do If Your Rabbit Eats Cheese
If you are aware that your rabbit has eaten a portion of cheese, don’t panic.
First, make sure the rabbit can’t get any more and that it has access to plenty of its normal high-fiber foodstuffs, including timothy hay or grass.
If you have access to a grassed yard or garden encourage eating by giving the rabbit the opportunity to munch on the fresh grass.
Observe the rabbit and keep an eye out for any behavior changes or symptoms associated with serious conditions like G.I. stasis.
These include discomfort and low energy. If the rabbit does show any unusual behavior or symptoms described it’s time to call the vet.
