Is coconut meat safe for rabbits to eat?

Question
QUESTION: I have found a low fat, pumpkin based healthy treat for buunies that contains coconut shreds.  Is this a safe food?  Thank you for your help.

ANSWER: coconut is not overtly toxic, but it's very high in fat, and that's not good for a strict herbivore such as a rabbit.

This sounds too high in carbohydrates and saturated fats to be healthy for a rabbit.  I'd stick to healthy fresh herbs and little fruit bits, which are not in question as to safety.

Please see:

www.bio.miami.edu/hare/diet.html

Hope this helps.

Dana

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: On a similar note, I have seen some litters made from coconut fiber, specifically the outer layer.  Would this be safe?  Also, what is your opinion of whether calendula flowers are safe for rabbits to eat. They appear on some toxic lists but not others.  Thank you for your assistance.

Answer
Dear Jennifer,

Coconut fiber is mostly cellulose and some lignin, and should be harmless if ingested.  But I actually got some samples of the coconut fiber litter, and it's about as absorbent as fiberglass.  :(  I wouldn't waste the money, though it is a nice idea.

Calendula has very low toxicity.  I've never given them to my bunnies (they don't grow in Miami), but from all I've read, they don't appear to be a problem.

Hope this helps.

Dana