Can Rabbits Eat Cabbage? Red, Green and Napa Explained
How we researched this guide: In November 2026 we checked every fact in this article against the House Rabbit Society, Rabbit.org, the Royal Veterinary College, the PDSA and the RSPCA. Anything we could not verify, we left out. See our editorial policy. Last reviewed: November 2026.
Quick answer: Yes, rabbits can eat cabbage, including green, red, savoy and napa cabbage. Every major rabbit care group lists it as safe. Introduce it slowly and keep portions modest, because cabbage can cause digestive upset in some rabbits.
Is Cabbage Safe for Rabbits?
Yes. The House Rabbit Society lists “Cabbage (any type)” among safe vegetables, the PDSA puts cabbage on its “safe” list, and the Royal Veterinary College includes it among plants that are safe for rabbits.
Two groups add a word of caution. The RVC notes that cabbage “can sometimes cause digestive upsets,” and the RSPCA says cabbage can be fed safely but should be offered only occasionally. Rabbit.org adds that too much can cause digestive problems and enlargement of the thyroid. The takeaway: cabbage is fine, but it shouldn’t be the only green in the bowl.
Which Types of Cabbage Can Rabbits Eat?
- Green cabbage: safe in modest amounts.
- Red or purple cabbage: listed by name as safe by Rabbit.org.
- Savoy cabbage: also listed by Rabbit.org.
- Napa cabbage: Rabbit.org lists napa cabbage (pe tsai) among safe leafy greens.
- Bok choy: a close cousin that Rabbit.org also lists as safe.
Cabbage leaves are fine to feed. Wash them well and offer them raw. Cooked, pickled or seasoned cabbage, like coleslaw or sauerkraut, isn’t suitable.
How Much Cabbage Can a Rabbit Eat?
Sources sort cabbage differently. Rabbit.org lists it as a leafy green, while the House Rabbit Society puts it with non-leafy vegetables. Because of the cautions above, the safer approach is to treat it as a side vegetable:
- The House Rabbit Society suggests non-leafy vegetables total about 1 tablespoon per 2 lb of body weight per day.
- Rabbit.org suggests about one cup of packed greens per 2 lb of rabbit per day in total, mostly leafy greens.
- Mix cabbage with other greens such as romaine, cilantro or dandelion greens rather than feeding it alone.
Does Cabbage Give Rabbits Gas?
Cabbage has a reputation for causing gas, and the RVC does note it can sometimes upset digestion. Rabbit.org points out that the common worry about brassicas and gas doesn’t carry over to rabbits fed normal amounts. The practical answer is to watch your own rabbit: introduce cabbage on its own in a small amount, wait 24 hours, and stop if droppings turn soft or your rabbit seems bloated or uncomfortable.
How to Feed Cabbage to Your Rabbit
- Wash the leaves and serve them raw and slightly wet.
- Start with a small piece of one leaf.
- Wait 24 hours and check for soft droppings or gas.
- If all is well, rotate cabbage with other greens through the week.
- Rabbits under 12 weeks shouldn’t have vegetables yet, according to Rabbit.org.
Hay should still make up most of your rabbit’s diet. For the full picture, read our guide to the best food for Angora rabbits, and see how cabbage compares with cauliflower and celery.
Please note: This guide is general information, not veterinary advice. If your rabbit has soft droppings, stops eating or stops pooping, contact a rabbit-savvy vet straight away.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can rabbits eat red cabbage?
Yes. Rabbit.org lists red cabbage by name, and the House Rabbit Society says any type of cabbage is safe.
Can rabbits eat napa cabbage?
Yes. Rabbit.org lists napa cabbage among safe leafy greens.
Can rabbits eat cabbage every day?
Small amounts can be part of a varied mix, but the RSPCA advises offering cabbage only occasionally and the RVC notes it can sometimes cause digestive upset. Rotate it with other greens.
Can rabbits eat cabbage leaves and stems?
Yes, raw leaves are fine. Wash them well and avoid cooked, pickled or seasoned cabbage.
Does cabbage make rabbits gassy?
It can in some rabbits. Introduce it slowly and stop if droppings turn soft or your rabbit seems bloated.
