Is it unhealthy for a rabbit to eat cheese?

Question
Every time I unwrap a slice of cheese, my new 9-month-old Dutch bunny gets VERY excited and begs me for some, and I can't ever resist obliging (although I only give her a bit since I'm not sure if she should even be eating it). She always gobbles up the cheese eagerly, seeming to enjoy it as much as her two other favorite snacks, yogurt chips and banana. I haven't been able to find any information about rabbits eating cheese online, so I gather this practice is unusual. My concern is whether it's unhealthy for a rabbit to eat cheese.

Answer
Rabbits do not have the enzyme needed to digest dairy products.  If you must give your bunny cheese try some soy cheese which is made from soy beans.  I still don't recommend a very large peice, but it may satisfy her need for chees without being dangerous for her to eat.  Check out www.rabbit.org for some healthy alternatives for treats for your bunny.

brenda