Rabbit Behavior; unusual

Question
I have a lionhead bunny. I think he's about a year old; not quite sure. He's been eating his poo and sniffing around his bedding alot. At first, I didn't notice. But then, when he was on my bed, I noticed he was chewing something. There was nothing around to chew, so I opened his mouth and made him spit out whatever it was he was chewing. It was his waste. Is this normal? Should I stop him or let him go?

I'm a 14-year-old girl with a rabbit for the first time. Advice is appreciated.  

Answer
Hi Elaine

Rabbits produce what is called cecotropes and they come out of their butts but they eat them because they contain much needed nutrition.  Many times you won't see them do it because they will look like they are grooming.  So yes it is not only normal but necessary for a healthy bunny.

I am attaching a website that I found that tells you all about the rabbits digestive system.  It goes into great detail and also tells you what kind of poo isn't normal.

You are doing a find job for being 14 and I think your bunny is very lucky to have a mom that cares enough about him to ask questions.  So if you ever have any more questions please feel free to ask.

Thank you

Pam

http://www.bio.miami.edu/hare/poop.html