Can rabbits have branches and which ones - 5 options to choose from

Properly chosen branches for rabbits not only help to grind down constantly growing teeth, but also, due to slow chewing, stimulate proper salivation. This helps rabbits' bodies digest food better and helps them release nutrients from the fiber they consume. All rabbits will have their favorite branches and twigs. Different types of wood taste different, so if your rabbit doesn't like chewing on one, try an alternative. 

Almost every rabbit breeder has year-round access to places where twig food can be obtained, including forests and gardens, including abandoned ones. Keep in mind that it is highly undesirable to collect branches with lichen, since a significant number of lichens contain microsistines. They are toxic to the liver, impairing its function, which can ultimately lead to liver failure and death. If there is only a small amount of lichen, simply trim the branch before serving. 

1. Willow

Willow is a common plant that is easy to find in nature, convenient to trim, tying and transporting, including on a sled in the snow. Willow branches contain fiber, which promotes good digestive function, are nutritious, and are also believed to prevent coccidiosis. In fact, in some countries there are commercial sales of willow branches for rabbits. 

Whether it is weeping, goat or white willow, rabbits will happily eat branches, especially if they are sick or recovering. Willow contains a natural pain reliever (salicin), but is not a complete replacement for veterinary medications. However, you should tell your veterinarian that you are giving willow if he or she recommends an anti-inflammatory drug for your rabbits. 

2. Raspberries

If you have access to a forest raspberry forest or other abandoned thickets of this berry bush, the branches will make an excellent feeding, no worse than willow. Raspberry branches are useful for rabbits to strengthen the immune system and treat respiratory diseases. The thorns will not harm animals, but for the branch collector you need to be aware of sharp thorns and, accordingly, choose good and thick onesgloves . Some people also organize a business with added value on raspberry branches for rabbits - they supply them with the thorns removed; in fact, rabbits cope with untreated branches without any problems. Therefore, wild hares and rabbits often visit gardens in winter in search of raspberries, which forces them to install protection against them.

3. Hazel

Hazel, a wild hazel, is a very popular branch food for rabbits and serves as a preventive measure for liver and biliary tract diseases. The main fear of rabbit breeders regarding both willow and pine, as well as hazel, is associated with the tannins contained in the bark and leaves of these plants. However, phytochemicals, including tannins, provide significant HEALTH benefits to animals. They have anti-inflammatory, antiviral, antibacterial effects, have astringent properties and are able to neutralize toxins. Tannins support healthy digestion and solve problems of diarrhea and chronic indigestion, and prevent the appearance of coccidia.

4. APPLE tree

It has long been no secret that free-ranging rabbits have a certain taste for apple trees, preferring young seedlings. Accordingly, domestic rabbits can also be given apple tree branches if they are cut from the tree and not treated with pesticides; branches from the ground should not be fed. Apple tree branches help improve immunity and wound healing. Apple wood is commonly used to make chew toys and rabbit sticks because it wears down teeth well and is attractive to rabbits. However, apple trees are quite often affected by lichen, and as we said above, this is a risk that should be controlled by stripping the branches with a stiff wire brush before serving. 

5. Birch

Birch belongs to the same beech family as hazel. Birch twig food is useful for rabbits for the prevention of urinary tract diseases, as it stimulates the kidneys and has an anti-inflammatory effect, improves metabolism.

In conclusion, grass hay is the most important chewing material and food for rabbits. The rabbit cannot feed on branches alone, which will lead to blockage of the gastrointestinal tract. Branch food is only an addition to the main diet, and not a replacement for it. High-quality and clean hay should always be available in unlimited quantities.