Is Rabbit a Novel Protein? Exploring the Benefits for Your Dog’s Health
- chrisandtonya519
- Mar 15
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 5
In this series of posts, we continue exploring the novel proteins we work with here at B&T Pets. This time we are focused on Rabbit. We source all of our rabbit from Southwestern Ontario, and make use of some pretty unique parts - the meat (of course), the hind legs, the hide, and at times the heads.
Let's discover why rabbit is a great choice, the benefits it offers, and how it can enhance your pet's health and happiness.
In this article, we will focus on:
A Quick Review of Novel Proteins
Novel proteins are less common sources of protein in traditional pet foods, used primarily in limited-ingredient diets to help manage food allergies and sensitivities. Proteins like rabbit, kangaroo, and venison offer alternatives to common options like chicken and beef, reducing the likelihood of allergic reactions.
To read more details about novel proteins, check out our blog post - here.
Why Rabbit?
Rabbit is an excellent novel protein option for several key reasons:
Highly Digestible: Rabbit meat is gentle on the digestive system, making it ideal for pets with sensitive stomachs.
Low Allergen Risk: Being a less common protein, it's less likely to trigger allergies.
Lean and Nutritious: Rabbit is low in fat but rich in high-quality protein, vitamins, and minerals, supporting overall health.
Sustainable Source: Rabbit is considered an eco-friendly meat choice due to its low environmental impact.

The Benefits of Rabbit for Your Pet
Introducing rabbit into your pet’s diet offers numerous health benefits:
Enhanced Digestibility: Rabbit is easy to digest, which helps pets with sensitive stomachs absorb nutrients effectively.
Excellent Source of Lean Protein: It supports muscle growth, tissue repair, and overall vitality.
Supports Weight Management: The low-fat content makes it suitable for pets that need to lose or maintain weight.
Rich in Essential Vitamins and Minerals: Rabbit is high in B vitamins, iron, and phosphorus, which are essential for energy production and overall well-being.
Ideal for Elimination Diets: For pets with allergies, rabbit is often used in elimination diets to identify sensitivities.
How to Incorporate Rabbit into Your Pet's Diet
Here are some simple ways to introduce rabbit into your pet's meals:
Start Slowly: Introduce small amounts and observe for any adverse reactions.
Opt for High-Quality Products: Look for natural, limited-ingredient products where rabbit is the primary ingredient.
Monitor Health: Keep an eye on your pet’s digestion, coat quality, and energy levels, and adjust portions as needed.
Final Thoughts
Rabbit is an excellent novel protein choice for dogs and cats, particularly those with food sensitivities. Its high digestibility, lean profile, and rich nutrient content support overall health and well-being. By incorporating rabbit into your pet’s diet, you can provide variety and promote long-term vitality and happiness.
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