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Foods for Rabbits That Are High in Calcium

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Calcium in an important mineral for keeping your rabbit's teeth and bones strong. Rabbits with a calcium deficiency may show signs or dental problems and, if the deficiency becomes too severe, may even fracture bones. If you suspect your bunny is deficient in calcium, you should get him to the vet, but to avoid this problem, feed him calcium-rich foods. However, be aware that too much calcium can cause problems, too.

Herbs and Hay

Certain fresh herbs are high in calcium and can help get a little extra into your rabbit's diet. Parsley contains 200 milligrams of calcium per 3.5 ounces and mint packs even more of a punch with 210 milligrams of calcium in the same amount. If your rabbit regularly eats hay, consider switching from grass hay, which is made up of 0.4 percent calcium, to alfalfa hay, which contains 1.5 percent calcium.

Getting Fruity

Although fruit should be fed sparingly to rabbits, due to its high sugar content, up to 2 tablespoons of calcium-rich fruit per day can make a tasty treat. Per 3.5 ounces, rhubarb stalks contain 143 milligrams of calcium -- just avoid feeding the leaves, which can be toxic, oranges contain 43 milligrams of calcium and dried apricots contain 55 milligrams of calcium. Despite being low in calcium compared to many vegetables, kiwis also contain a large amount of calcium for a fruit, with 34 milligrams of calcium per 3.5 ounces.

Leafy Greens

Most leafy greens are the ideal way to get some extra calcium into your bunny's diet. Containing 210 milligrams of calcium in 3.5 ounces, cooked collard greens are the best choice, closely followed by raw kale, which contains 205 milligrams of calcium in the same amount. Other calcium-rich leafy greens include watercress, mustard greens, turnip greens and spinach -- although the latter should only be offered occasionally.

Other Vegetables

More options exist when it comes to high-calcium vegetables. So, if your rabbit is a picky eater, he's got plenty of choice. Per 3.5 ounces, broccoli rabe contains 118 milligrams of calcium, okra contains 96 milligrams of calcium, broccoli contains 56 milligrams and lettuce contains 53 milligrams of calcium. Other calcium-rich contenders include swede, turnip, Brussels sprouts, sweet potato and winter squash.