Are lawnmower grass clippings toxic to rabbits?
Why it is a problem
- A lawnmower heats and damages grass, so it goes off quickly and bacteria can grow on it. Source: PDSA
- The Royal Veterinary College adds that clippings may carry petrol residues. Source: Royal Veterinary College
Sources
Royal Veterinary College: Rabbit care information pack (RVC Exotics Service) (opens in a new tab)
“Lawnmower clippings should never be used as they ferment rapidly and may have petrol residues on them”
PDSA: Feeding your rabbits (opens in a new tab)
“never feed mown grass, as this can make them poorly”
PDSA: Feeding your rabbits (opens in a new tab)
“Lawn mowers heat up and damage grass, which means it goes off quickly and bacteria can grow on it.”
PDSA: Feeding your rabbits (opens in a new tab)
“use scissors to clip a small amount each day and feed it to your rabbits straight away”
RSPCA: What do rabbits eat? Rabbit diet advice (opens in a new tab)
“Don't feed them lawnmower clippings, as these can make them ill”