Is elder toxic to rabbits?

Q: Is elder toxic to rabbits?

Yes, Elder is toxic to rabbits. The leaves, stems, bark and unripe berries hold cyanide-releasing compounds. A garden nibble usually causes tummy upset and a rabbit going off its food; a large amount of leaves or unripe berries is more serious. A very common hedgerow shrub. Source: House Rabbit Society.

A sourced answer from House Rabbit Society and RWAF guidance. If your bunny has chewed this plant, call your exotic vet right away.

Elder (elderberry plant)

Best avoided

The leaves, stems, bark and unripe berries hold cyanide-releasing compounds. A garden nibble usually causes tummy upset and a rabbit going off its food; a large amount of leaves or unripe berries is more serious. A very common hedgerow shrub.

How much: Never feed the leaves, stems or unripe berries. Keep rabbits away from the shrub.

Source: House Rabbit Society · Sacramento House Rabbit Society

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