Lias_ark wrote:
I restrict hayas I keep a close eye on their weight and condition. Sorry butI will listen to the feed experts. I have attended clinics offered by purina Mills.They have done extensive research on rabbit nutrition.
My litters and youngsters get hay daily till about 3 months and unlimited pellets. I feed greens rarely and not to a bun under 6 months of age.
I think you'll find we have a few experts of our own on this board.
But opinions vary and everybody is entitled to their own.I tend to base mine on provenmedical advice from a rabbit-savvy Vet or nutritionist.
A pellet company has no vested financial interest in recommending hay, because to do so will lose them business -- they willneed fewerPurina pellets.
Timothy hay will not put on weight but will provide fibre that will keep their weight under control. It also provides dental health and much entertainment value -- they are foragers.
Alfalfa hay (and alfalfa pellets) will put on weight.
Vegetables can be fed carefully in small amounts from the time of weaning,my personalchoice because it better prepares thebabies forwhen they leave the breeder. Variety at ayoung ageis good preparation for whatever they may encounter in their future.
I find many breeders to be very knowledgeable as well, but they have different needs -- it's notthat easy to provide veggies and hay diets for large numbers of bunnies. A quality pellet is a necessity.
Alsothose with show rabbits tend to have different goals. They need to be in a specific form, and many don't get much time outside the cages. Indeed, even having outdoor cages means different vitamin requirements.
Rabbit care is apretty complicated business.
sas :bunnydance:
