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Why is my rabbit's pee reddish-orange after eating carrot treats?

Updated On September 23rd, 2025

Pet's info: Small Animal | Rabbit | Female | unspayed | 7 months and 6 days old

My rabbits wee is reddish orange lately. About a week ago I fed here a few beetroot and carrot treats. She is as boisterous as ever. Is she ok?

3 Answers

Most Helpful Answer

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Answered By Lotus Altholtz

Veterinarian, Board-Certified Lab Animal Medicine Specialist

Published on March 14th, 2019

The beta-carotene plant pigments in the treats are the likely cause of the reddish-orange tinge to Lily’s pee. As long as she is not lethargic, inappetant, or straining to pee, she is likely perfectly fine!

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Other Answers

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    Answered By Kevin Sanada, DVM

    Veterinarian

    Published on December 9th, 2017

    Yes, this is normal. Rabbits do not break down carotenoids, which are what give the carrot the orange color. Instead, they pass this into their urine unchanged (unlike other mammals), which will give a dark orange/red appearance. You can expect to see this again when he eats orange-colored foods. I hope that helps and all is well with Winston.

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    Answered By Todd Cecil

    Veterinarian

    Published on October 2nd, 2019

    Thanks for reaching out about Caramel. Carotenoid (yellow, orange, red) pigments from food can be excreted in the urine, so increased carrots and other vegetables can result in urine color change. If eating other vegetables with high water content, that might be meeting some of the water requirements, thereby drinking less. The water from different sources (bottles vs. tap) can taste different and also dissuade drinking. If concerned, a veterinary visit is recommended. good luck.

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