Food Bowls…Meh

Did you know that we don’t encourage our fosters to use food bowls for their bunnies?

Bowls for water - yes.

Bowls for food - no.

Bunnies don't need food bowls for several reasons:

1. Natural Foraging Behavior: In the wild, rabbits are grazers, constantly nibbling on a variety of plants. Providing food in a bowl doesn't mimic this natural behavior. Instead, scattering their food in their enclosure encourages them to forage, which is mentally and physically stimulating. Oftentimes if you have a bored bun, this makes a huge difference.

2. Weight Control: Bunnies are prone to obesity if they have constant access to a full food bowl. By making them work for their food, you can help them maintain a healthy weight.

3. Mental Stimulation: Foraging engages a rabbit's mind, preventing boredom and reducing the risk of behavioral issues. It's an essential form of enrichment. There are also lots of pellet dispensing toys, puzzles, and snuffle mats at Dolly’s Dream Store.

4. If you have a bonded pair, food being in a bowl may lead them to fight or compete over the pellets. Scattering it around ensures nobunny “hogs” the food bowl and everybody gets their fair share of food.

(Also helps prevent choking!)

What do you think? How do you feed your bunnies?