Do Rabbits Eat Creeping Thyme

If you’re planning a garden that both you and your pet rabbits can enjoy, you’re probably wondering about safe plants. A common question is, do rabbits eat creeping thyme? The answer is generally yes, and it can be a wonderful addition to a rabbit-friendly space. This low-growing herb is not only resilient but also offers some benefits for your bunnies. Let’s look at how creeping thyme fits into a safe garden design.

Creeping thyme (Thymus serpyllum) is a hardy perennial herb. It forms a dense mat of tiny, fragrant leaves and produces small pink or purple flowers. It’s loved by gardeners for its ability to withstand foot traffic, suppress weeds, and attract pollinators. For rabbits, it presents an interesting texture and aroma. While not a primary food source, it is considered non-toxic and safe for them to nibble on.

So, will rabbits actually eat it? Observations from gardeners and rabbit owners show that reactions vary. Some rabbits will happily graze on the leaves and flowers, while others might ignore it completely. It’s not typically their first choice compared to sweeter herbs like basil or cilantro. However, its safety is the key point. You can plant it without worry, knowing it won’t harm your pets if they decide to taste it.

Nutritional and Health Considerations

Creeping thyme isn’t a significant nutritional staple for rabbits. Their diet should always be centered on unlimited hay, fresh water, and a daily portion of leafy greens. Herbs like creeping thyme are best thought of as occasional treats or enrichment items.

That said, thyme does contain compounds like thymol, which have mild antiseptic properties. In very small, occasional amounts, it might offer a minor health benefit, though this shouldn’t be overstated. The main advantage is providing sensory variety and encouraging natural foraging behavior, which is great for their mental well-being.

Designing a Rabbit-Friendly Garden with Thyme

Incorporating creeping thyme into your garden design can be both practical and beautiful. Here are some effective ways to use it:

Between Pavers or Stepping Stones: Its durability makes it perfect for filling gaps. Rabbits can sniff and nibble as they explore a pathway.
As a Living Mulch: Plant it around the base of taller, rabbit-safe plants or shrubs. It helps retain soil moisture and deters weeds.
In Raised Beds or Borders: Use it as a decorative edge. Its low growth habit won’t obstruct your view of your bunnies at play.
In Designated Foraging Zones: Create a specific area with a mix of safe herbs like thyme, oregano, and mint. This can focus their grazing away from more delicate plants you want to protect.

Important Safety Precautions

Even with safe plants, you must follow a few critical rules:

No Chemicals: Never use pesticides, herbicides, or synthetic fertilizers on or near plants your rabbits can access. Even organic options like neem oil should be used with extreme caution and only when rabbits are kept away until it’s completely safe.
Clean Soil: Ensure your garden soil is free from contaminants, like lead from old paint or from car exhaust. Using fresh potting mix in raised beds is often the safest bet.
Introduce Slowly: If your rabbit hasn’t had thyme before, offer a very small amount first to ensure it doesn’t cause any digestive upset, though this is rare.
Supervise Initial Interactions: Watch your rabbits when they first encounter new plants in the garden to see how they react and to prevent overindulgence.

Other Excellent Rabbit-Safe Herbs to Plant

Diversifying your garden keeps it interesting. Here are other wonderful herbs that are safe for rabbits:

Mint (all varieties): Aromatic and often loved by bunnies. Be warned—it can be invasive, so consider planting it in a container sunk into the ground.
Basil: A favorite for many rabbits. It’s easy to grow from seed and makes a great summer crop.
Cilantro/Coriander: Another popular choice, offering a distinct flavor.
Dill: The feathery leaves and flowers are safe and attractive.
Parsley (flat-leaf or curly): A nutritious treat, but feed in moderation due to higher calcium content.
Oregano & Marjoram: These hardy, spreading herbs are similar to thyme in their growth and safety.

Plants to Absolutely Avoid in a Rabbit Garden

Knowing what not to plant is even more crucial. Many common garden plants are highly toxic to rabbits. You must avoid these entirely:

Foxglove
Lily of the Valley
Azalea/Rhododendron
Oleander
Daffodil, Tulip, and Hyacinth bulbs
Nightshades (like tomato leaves, potato greens)
Rhubarb leaves
Yew

Always double-check a plant’s safety with a reliable source, like the House Rabbit Society, before introducing it to your garden space. Its better to be safe than sorry when it comes to your pets health.

Step-by-Step: Creating a Secure Garden Space

Safety extends beyond plant choice. Follow these steps to build a secure environment:

Choose a Location: Pick a sunny spot with good drainage for your herbs to thrive.
Install Secure Fencing: Bury fencing at least 12 inches deep to prevent digging escapes. Also ensure it’s high enough to prevent jumping over.
Prepare the Soil: Amend with compost for fertility. Avoid any manure-based composts unless you are certain they are well-aged and from animals not treated with medications.
Plant Your Herbs: Plant thyme and other safe herbs, giving them enough space to spread. Water them well after planting.
Rabbit-Proof the Perimeter: Check for gaps in fencing and block access to any unsafe plants outside the enclosure.
Add Enrichment: Include rabbit-safe hiding places, tunnels, and platforms to make the garden a fun place for them.

Managing Your Garden with Free-Roaming Rabbits

If you allow your rabbits supervised free-roam time in your main garden, management is key. You can use temporary fencing or playpens to cordon off areas with precious or unsafe plants. Training rabbits with positive reinforcement to stay in certain zones can also help, though it requires patience. Remember, rabbits are natural diggers and chewers, so prized flower beds might need physical protection.

FAQs About Rabbits and Garden Herbs

Is creeping thyme safe for rabbits to eat?
Yes, creeping thyme is non-toxic and safe for rabbits to nibble on in small amounts as an occasional treat.

What herbs do rabbits like the most?
Many rabbits show a strong preference for basil, cilantro, and mint. Herbs like thyme and oregano are often sampled but not always devoured.

Can I feed my rabbit thyme from the grocery store?
Yes, but ensure it’s fresh, thoroughly washed to remove pesticides, and introduced in a tiny quantity first. Dried thyme is too concentrated and not recommended.

How do I stop rabbits from eating all my herbs?
In a shared garden, plant more than you need! Use protective cloches or raised planters for young plants until they are established. Providing plenty of their favorite hay and greens can also deter them from overeating your garden plants.

Are thyme flowers safe for rabbits?
Yes, the small purple or pink flowers of the creeping thyme plant are also safe for rabbits to consume.

Creating a garden that caters to both your love of plants and your care for your rabbits is a rewarding project. By choosing safe, sturdy plants like creeping thyme, you can build a beautiful and engaging outdoor space. It allows your bunnies to express natural behaviors in a secure setting. With careful planning and attention to safety, you can enjoy a lush garden knowing your furry friends are happy and protected. The key is balance—providing enrichment for them while also achieving the garden aesthetic you desire.