Molesey Vets’ Team Share Spring Edible Pet Garden Tips
March 7, 2025
What better way to welcome spring than by starting an edible garden for your pets? March – April is the ideal time to sow seeds and prepare your garden, ensuring your pets can enjoy safe, fresh, and nutritious treats straight from home.
Rabbits, guinea pigs, and other small furry pets can all benefit from carefully chosen greens and herbs, adding variety and enrichment to their diet. Molesey Vets’ team have prepared a step-by-step guide for a foraging edible garden.
Download Our Edible Foraging Garden Guide
When planning your pet’s edible garden, there are two approaches you can take: one for harvesting and one for foraging. According to Molesey Vets’ nursing team, both offer unique benefits and can be tailored to suit your pet’s specific needs.
Choosing the right edible garden
Option 1 – A garden to harvest from
Create a space in your Surrey garden to grow pet-safe vegetables and herbs. This approach lets you harvest fresh, chemical-free foods while enjoying the rewards of gardening. Some great options include:
- Carrots: A vitamin-rich favourite for rabbits and guinea pigs.
- Mint, parsley, and basil: Aromatic and safe herbs for rabbits and guinea pigs.
- Cucumber: Refreshing and hydrating for small pets.
- Bell peppers: Full of vitamin C and suitable for many pets, including guinea pigs.
Always wash produce thoroughly before offering it to your pet and introduce new foods gradually. For guidance on portion sizes or balancing their diet, speak with our nurses.
Option 2 – A foraging garden
Foraging gardens let pets enjoy an interactive experience by mimicking natural behaviours. Rabbits and guinea pigs can enjoy troughs or pots of fresh greens placed in their run. Keep the garden out of reach when not in use to avoid overindulgence.
Our veterinary nurses in East Molesey advise that for smaller pets, like hamsters or gerbils, you can create a foraging box with edible plants such as dandelion leaves, sunflower seeds, or small amounts of broccoli, rosemary, and blueberries.
Get growing this March & April
Planting in early spring ensures your edible garden thrives as the weather warms in Surrey. Always remember to research safe foods for your pet type and offer new foods in small doses to avoid tummy upsets. Plus, rotating crops or using multiple planters will maintain a steady supply of fresh treats for your pets throughout the season.
And remember, gardening with pets isn’t just about food – it’s a fun and rewarding activity for you both. Read our guide on how to grow an edible foraging garden for tips and don´t hesitate to get in touch for further advice.
It’s time to dig in – happy gardening!
