What Fruits Can Rabbits Eat As Treats Without Harm

 

What Fruits Can Rabbits Eat As Treats Without Harm

Many owners ponder what fruits can rabbits eat as treats to add variety to their pet's diet. These sweet snacks are delightful but should be occasional, not a staple. High-quality hay is crucial for your bunny's health, serving as the mainstay of their nutrition.

It's wise to limit these treats to about 5% of their diet. A good rule of thumb is to offer one tablespoon for every five pounds of body weight. Knowing what fruits can rabbits eat as treats safely helps prevent digestive issues while keeping your pet content.

Proper preparation is essential when giving treats like apples without seeds, pears, papaya, or bananas. This guide will cover safe options, toxic foods to steer clear of, and the need to watch for any signs of discomfort in your pet.

Key Takeaways

• Hay must always be the primary component of a healthy rabbit diet.
• Limit sugary snacks to 5% of total daily food intake.
• Always remove seeds and pits before serving fresh produce.
• Monitor your pet closely for any signs of digestive upset.
• Avoid dried options, as they contain concentrated sugar levels.

The Golden Rule: Fruit as a 5% Occasional Treat

Sweet treats should only be a small, occasional part of your rabbit's diet. While your bunny may eagerly hop toward a piece of apple or banana, these sugary snacks are not a substitute for essential nutrition. Balance is the key to keeping your long-eared friend happy and healthy for years to come.

What fruits can rabbits eat as treats safely?

Rabbits can safely enjoy a variety of fresh fruits, provided they are prepared with care. Most common fruits found in your kitchen are acceptable in tiny amounts. Always prioritize fresh, organic options whenever possible to avoid harmful pesticides.

Why fruit should remain a small part of a hay-based diet

A rabbit's digestive system is specifically designed to process high-fiber foods like grass hay. When you offer too much fruit, the high sugar content can disrupt the delicate balance of bacteria in their gut. This often leads to painful gas, soft stools, or even more serious gastrointestinal stasis.

"The foundation of a healthy rabbit diet is unlimited access to high-quality grass hay, which supports both digestion and dental wear."

Furthermore, if a rabbit fills up on sweet fruit, they will likely ignore their hay. This creates a dangerous cycle where the animal misses out on the fiber needed to keep their teeth worn down and their bowels moving properly.

The maximum recommended portion for an adult rabbit

When considering what is the maximum recommended portion size for giving fruit treats to an adult rabbit?, the general rule is to stick to one tablespoon of chopped fruit per five pounds of body weight. This small amount ensures your pet gets a tasty reward without overloading their system with unnecessary calories.

How many fruit treats can a rabbit eat per week?

Moderation is vital for maintaining your pet's ideal weight and metabolic health. You should limit these sugary snacks to only 1–2 times per week. By following this schedule, you ensure that fruit remains a special treat rather than a dietary staple.

Safe Fruit List for Pet Rabbits

Knowing which fruits are safe for your bunny is crucial for a healthy snack. Hay should be the mainstay of their diet. However, small amounts of fresh fruit can be a delightful reward during bonding sessions.

Apples with the seeds and core removed

Many owners wonder, can rabbits eat apples with skin and seeds safely? The apple flesh is a sweet treat, but the core and seeds must be removed. The skin is safe to leave on, provided it's washed well to remove pesticides or wax.

Berries: strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries

Berries are a colorful, antioxidant-rich option for your pet. They are usually well-received by most rabbits. Ensure they are fresh and free from mold or chemical sprays.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EVYvWwmvIHA

Bananas, pears, papaya, and seedless watermelon

These fruits offer a variety of textures and flavors that rabbits enjoy. Bananas are a high-energy favorite, while papaya contains enzymes that aid digestion. Opt for seedless watermelon to prevent choking hazards. Serve these fruits in very small, controlled portions.

Are blueberries and strawberries good treats for pet rabbits?

Yes, are blueberries and strawberries good treats for pet rabbits when given in moderation. They are high in natural sugars, so they should be rare indulgences, not daily meals. Their small size makes them excellent for reinforcing positive behavior.

Which safe fruits are easiest to portion?

Berries are the easiest fruits to measure because they come in naturally small, bite-sized pieces. When serving larger fruits like bananas or pears, slice them carefully. Always introduce any new fruit gradually to ensure your rabbit's digestive system handles the change without issue.

Critical Prep Safety: Removing Seeds, Pits, and Stems

Before offering fruit to your bunny, it's crucial to know the hidden dangers within common snacks. Many owners believe that if a fruit is safe for humans, it's safe for rabbits. Yet, understanding why are fruit seeds and pits dangerous for pet rabbits is key to responsible pet care.

Why are fruit seeds and pits dangerous for rabbits?

The main danger lies in both physical and chemical threats. Large pits can cause a painful obstruction in a rabbit's digestive tract, a medical emergency. Moreover, these hard objects are a significant choking hazard for small animals with delicate throats.

Cyanide risks from apple seeds and stone-fruit pits

There's also a chemical concern about toxicity. You might wonder, why are apple seeds, peach pits, and cherry stems toxic to pet rabbits? These parts contain compounds that release cyanide when chewed or crushed by your pet.

Even a small amount of these toxins can cause serious distress to a rabbit's sensitive system. It is essential to remove all seeds and pits before serving any fruit to ensure your pet stays safe and healthy.

Why peach pits, cherry pits, and cherry stems require special care

Stone fruits like peaches, plums, and cherries are particularly risky due to their large, hard pits. Cherry stems are often overlooked during quick preparation, yet they can harbor toxins and cause internal irritation. Always inspect your fruit carefully to ensure no stems remain attached before offering a piece to your rabbit.

How removing whole seeds also reduces choking hazards

Removing seeds is not just about avoiding chemical toxicity; it's also a crucial safety measure to prevent choking. Small, slippery seeds can easily be inhaled or get stuck in the airway. By taking the time to core and seed your fruit, you create a safe, bite-sized treat that your rabbit can enjoy without risk.

Dangerous and Toxic Fruits to Never Feed

Some common household fruits can pose serious health risks to your pet. While you may want to share your snacks, it is vital to understand that certain items are strictly off-limits for a rabbit's sensitive digestive system.

Why avocado should never be offered to a rabbit

You might wonder, why should avocado never be offered to a rabbit under any circumstances? The primary reason is a fungicidal toxin called persin found in the skin, pit, and flesh of the fruit.

This substance is highly toxic to many small animals, including rabbits. Even a small amount can lead to severe respiratory distress, heart failure, and, in many cases, sudden death.

Rhubarb, citrus peels, and other unsafe fruit parts

Rhubarb is another dangerous item that must stay out of your rabbit's reach. It contains high levels of oxalic acid, which can cause kidney damage and severe gastrointestinal upset.

Similarly, citrus peels are often treated with pesticides and waxes that are difficult for a rabbit to digest. The essential oils in citrus rinds can also cause significant irritation to their delicate mouth and throat linings.

Store-bought dried fruits with added sugar or sulfur dioxide

Many owners mistakenly believe that dried fruit is a healthy alternative to fresh snacks. However, commercial dried fruit products often contain added sugars that can lead to obesity and dangerous gut imbalances.

Furthermore, many of these products are preserved with sulfur dioxide. This chemical can trigger allergic reactions or respiratory issues in sensitive rabbits, making them a poor choice for your pet.

Fruits to never feed a pet rabbit: a quick safety checklist

Before you offer any new treat, consult this fruits to never feed a pet rabbit list to ensure your bunny stays healthy and happy:

• Avocado: Contains toxic persin in all parts.
• Rhubarb: High in dangerous oxalic acid.
• Citrus Peels: Often contain harmful waxes and oils.
• Dried Fruit with Additives: Avoid anything with added sugar or sulfur dioxide.
• Fruit Pits and Seeds: Many contain cyanide compounds that are unsafe.

Fresh vs. Dehydrated Fruit Treats

The form of fruit treats is as crucial as the type for your rabbit's health. Dried snacks might be convenient, but your rabbit's digestive system is sensitive to changes in food density. It's vital to choose the right treat to keep their gut healthy.

Why fresh fruit is usually safer than dried fruit chips

Fresh fruit offers natural hydration, which is key for your rabbit's health. It has a high water content, making it hard to overfeed your pet. Fresh options are generally safer because they provide a natural balance of nutrients without the intense concentration found in processed snacks.

Can pet rabbits eat dried fruit without added sugar?

Many owners wonder if pet rabbits can eat dried fruit without added sugar. While it's technically possible, it's rarely recommended. Dried fruit, even without added sweeteners, is a concentrated sugar source that can upset your rabbit's gut flora.

How dehydration concentrates sugar and calories

Dehydration removes water, shrinking the fruit but leaving all natural sugars intact. A small, shriveled piece of dried apple has the same sugar content as a larger fresh slice. This concentrated sugar content can cause rapid weight gain and digestive issues in small rabbits.

How to check labels for added sugar, preservatives, and sulfur dioxide

If you choose to give dried treats, you must be vigilant at the grocery store. Always check the packaging for hidden ingredients like sulfur dioxide, used to preserve color. Avoid products with added sugars, syrups, or artificial preservatives, as they are highly dangerous for your rabbit's sensitive stomach.

Feature	Fresh Fruit	Dried Fruit
Water Content	High (Natural)	Very Low
Sugar Density	Low to Moderate	Extremely High
Portion Control	Easy to manage	Difficult to gauge
Additives	None	Often present

Portion Sizes by Rabbit Weight, Age, and Health

Feeding your bunny fruit is a balancing act that depends on their weight, age, and health. Fruit is high in sugar, so it should not replace hay's essential fiber. Always watch your rabbit's stool quality after introducing new treats to keep their digestive system stable.

Calculating one tablespoon per five pounds of body weight

Offer no more than one tablespoon of fresh fruit per five pounds of body weight daily. This rule applies to the total fruit given in a day. For smaller rabbits, scale down the portion to avoid digestive upset.

How much banana slice can an indoor rabbit eat?

Many owners wonder how much banana slice can an indoor rabbit eat without risking health issues. Bananas are very sweet and calorie-dense, making them a rare treat. A tiny slice, roughly the size of a coin, is usually enough for an average-sized indoor rabbit.

Can baby rabbits under six months eat fresh fruit treats?

Young rabbits have extremely sensitive digestive tracts that are still developing. Many owners ask, can baby rabbits under six months eat fresh fruit treats safely? It's best to avoid fruit entirely during the first few months to prevent dangerous gastrointestinal stasis.

Introducing tiny fruit pieces after about 12 weeks of age

You might be curious, at what exact age can young bunnies be safely introduced to tiny fruit pieces? Most experts suggest waiting until the rabbit is at least 12 weeks old. Even then, start with a very small, fingernail-sized piece to see how their stomach reacts.

When a rabbit’s age, weight, or medical history calls for veterinary advice

If your rabbit suffers from obesity, dental disease, or diabetes, consult your vet before adding fruit to their diet. These conditions require strict sugar control to prevent further complications. Always prioritize professional medical guidance over general feeding charts when managing a rabbit with a complex health history.

Rabbit Weight	Max Fruit Portion	Frequency
2.5 lbs	0.5 Tablespoon	Occasional
5 lbs	1 Tablespoon	Occasional
10 lbs	2 Tablespoons	Occasional

Lower-Sugar Fruits and Rabbit Dental Health

Choosing the right treats is crucial for your pet's health. Many owners seek to know which fruits have the lowest sugar content and are safest for indoor bunnies. This ensures they don't overfeed their pets.

Which fruits have the lowest sugar content for indoor bunnies?

Berries, like strawberries and blueberries, have less sugar than tropical fruits. They offer a natural sweetness that rabbits enjoy without the sugar rush of denser fruits.

Opting for berries helps keep your rabbit's digestive system stable. These fruits provide a rewarding treat that meets your rabbit's dietary needs.

How fruit sugar affects dental health and molar spurs

Many wonder, how does the sugar content in fruit affect a rabbit's dental health and molar spurs? Fruit itself doesn't replace vet care, but high-sugar diets can harm oral health indirectly.

Rabbits need to chew constantly to wear down their teeth. Consuming sugary treats can make them less interested in hay. Hay is critical for natural tooth wear, especially for molars.

Why berries may be easier to portion than bananas

Berries are simpler to portion than bananas due to their size. A single blueberry or a small strawberry slice is an easy, visibly controlled serving.

On the other hand, bananas are dense and high in sugar. This makes it easy to overfeed. Berries allow for treats while keeping sugar intake in check.

How sugary treats can displace hay and healthy chewing

Hay is the cornerstone of a rabbit's diet. Consuming too many sugary treats can make rabbits picky about their hay.

This reduction in hay consumption is risky. Hay is essential for the prolonged chewing action needed to prevent molar spurs. Always prioritize hay to keep your rabbit's teeth healthy and functional.

Serving Fruit Without Causing Soft Stool or Uneaten Cecotropes

Many owners often ask, can feeding fruit treats daily cause sticky uneaten cecotropes or soft stool? Yes, the high sugar in fruit can overwhelm a rabbit's sensitive digestive system.

Can feeding fruit treats daily cause sticky uneaten cecotropes?

Rabbits have a unique fermentation process in their cecum to digest fiber. Too much sugar from daily fruit treats disrupts this process. This often results in sticky, foul-smelling cecotropes that rabbits won't eat.

These cecotropes can mat in the rabbit's fur, causing discomfort and hygiene issues. Over time, this can lead to serious gastrointestinal problems.

Signs that a rabbit is eating too much fruit

It's crucial to watch your pet closely after introducing new treats. Even small amounts of fruit can cause reactions in sensitive rabbits.

Soft stool, diarrhea, reduced appetite, and changes in behavior

Look for soft, unformed droppings or actual diarrhea, which indicate digestive struggles. You might also see a reduced appetite for hay or lethargy. These signs often mean the rabbit is in pain or discomfort.

How to stop a new fruit and return to hay and water

If you notice these symptoms, stop fruit treats immediately. Provide unlimited high-quality Timothy hay and fresh water to stabilize the gut. If your rabbit's energy doesn't improve in 24 hours, or if diarrhea persists, seek a rabbit-experienced vet.

Digestive Indicator	Healthy Status	Warning Sign
Droppings	Firm, round, dry	Soft, clumped, wet
Appetite	Consistent hay intake	Refusal of hay/pellets
Behavior	Active and alert	Lethargic or hunched
Cecotropes	Fully consumed	Left in litter box

Washing, Cutting, and Serving Common Rabbit Fruits

Proper preparation is crucial for a safe and healthy fruit snack for your bunny. Cleaning and portioning treats ensures your rabbit enjoys fresh produce without digestive risks. This step is essential for their health.

Can rabbits eat watermelon skin and fruit chunks?

Many owners wonder, can rabbits eat watermelon skin and fruit chunks? The juicy red flesh is safe in small amounts. However, the tough, green rind is not digestible and may contain pesticides. It's best to discard it.

Washing produce and cutting fruit into bite-size pieces

Before serving, wash the produce under cool, running water to remove dirt and chemicals. Inspect the fruit for any signs of bruising, mold, or spoilage. Always discard any section that looks less than perfect, as rabbits are highly sensitive to spoiled food.

After washing, cut the fruit into small, manageable pieces. This prevents choking and allows you to control the portion size. Small chunks are easier for your pet to chew and digest.

Safe ways to serve apples, berries, bananas, pears, and papaya

When offering treats like apples, pears, or papaya, remove all seeds and pits before serving. Berries such as strawberries and blueberries can be served whole if they are small, but larger ones should be halved. Bananas should be sliced into thin, coin-sized portions to keep sugar intake within the recommended weekly allowance.

Removing tough rinds, stems, cores, and spoiled sections

Consistency is key when preparing these snacks. Always remove tough rinds, woody stems, and fibrous cores before serving. Never try to trim around spoiled sections; if a piece of fruit is damaged, it is safer to throw it away and choose a fresh, healthy piece instead.

Using Fruit Treats for Bonding, Training, and Rabbit Housing

Integrating fruit into your rabbit's routine requires careful planning. It's important to prioritize long-term health over immediate gratification. By focusing on Anvhortext rabbit care principles, you can ensure that treats remain a secondary component of a diet primarily composed of high-quality hay. This balance keeps your pet healthy while still allowing for meaningful interaction.

Anvhortext rabbit care principles for balanced treat routines

A balanced routine treats fruit as a rare, measured reward rather than a staple. Always calculate portions based on the 1-tablespoon-per-5-pounds rule to avoid digestive upset. Consistency is key when managing these small portions to ensure your rabbit maintains a healthy weight.

Preparing your rewards in advance helps you stay within these strict limits. By pre-portioning fruit, you prevent the temptation to offer extra pieces throughout the day. This disciplined strategy keeps the treat routine predictable and safe for your bunny.

Can fruit treats support litter box training and bonding rewards?

Many owners wonder: can fruit treats be used effectively for litter box training and bonding rewards? The answer is yes, provided you use them as a positive reinforcement tool rather than a bribe. Small bits of fruit can encourage your rabbit to associate specific behaviors with a pleasant outcome.

When training, use the smallest possible sliver of fruit to mark a desired action. This keeps the rabbit focused on the task without filling them up on sugar. These tiny rewards are often enough to build trust and strengthen your bond during quiet floor time.

Using tiny portions instead of daily food bribes

Avoid using fruit as a daily bribe to get your rabbit into their enclosure. If you rely on treats to manage movement, your rabbit may eventually refuse to cooperate without a sugary incentive. Instead, use verbal cues and gentle guidance to encourage natural movement.

Keep your rewards intermittent to maintain their value. When a rabbit knows a treat is coming every single time, the behavior becomes transactional rather than a sign of affection. Strategic treat management ensures that your rabbit remains motivated by your presence, not just the food.

Keeping fruit treats compatible with clean rabbit housing

Maintaining clean rabbit housing is essential for your pet's respiratory and digestive health. Always remove any uneaten fruit pieces immediately after a training session to prevent spoilage. Sticky residue can attract pests and create an unhygienic environment in the litter area.

By keeping feeding areas separate from sleeping quarters, you make cleanup much easier. Regularly inspect the enclosure to ensure no hidden fruit bits have been tucked away in corners. A clean, organized space supports the overall well-being of your rabbit and keeps their living area fresh.

What to Do After Accidental Seed or Excess Fruit Consumption

Discovering your pet has eaten a fruit seed or an extra portion of fruit can be a stressful experience for any owner. You might wonder, what should i do if my rabbit accidentally eats a whole grape or fruit seed? The most important step is to remain calm and remove any remaining pieces of the item from their reach immediately.

What to do if a rabbit eats a whole grape or fruit seed

Once you have cleared the area, provide your rabbit with plenty of fresh hay and clean water. This helps encourage normal digestion and keeps their gut moving. Do not attempt to induce vomiting, as rabbits are physically unable to do so and this can cause severe internal damage.

Keep a detailed log of exactly what was consumed, the approximate quantity, and the time of the incident. This information is incredibly helpful if you need to call your veterinarian for guidance. Having these facts ready allows the medical team to assess the risk level quickly and accurately.

When to contact an exotic-animal veterinarian

While minor dietary indiscretions often resolve on their own, certain situations require professional intervention. If your rabbit shows signs of distress, lethargy, or stops eating, contact an exotic-animal specialist immediately. Time is often of the essence when dealing with potential toxins or blockages.

"A rabbit's digestive system is highly sensitive; when in doubt about a dietary mishap, always prioritize a consultation with a qualified veterinarian over waiting for symptoms to appear."

Monitoring appetite, droppings, energy, and signs of pain

For the next 24 to 48 hours, observe your rabbit closely for any changes in behavior. Watch for a decrease in appetite, smaller or fewer droppings, or signs of abdominal pain such as hunching or teeth grinding. These are common indicators that the digestive system is struggling.

Scenario	Immediate Action	Monitoring Period
Single fruit seed	Remove access, provide hay.	24 hours
Excess fruit portion	Limit treats, monitor stool	48 hours
Toxic item (Avocado).	Call vet immediately	Immediate

Why suspected avocado, pit, or toxic-food exposure needs prompt advice

Certain items, such as avocado or fruit pits, contain compounds that can be highly toxic to rabbits. Because these substances can cause rapid health deterioration, you should never wait for symptoms to manifest. Prompt veterinary advice is the safest course of action to prevent life-threatening complications from toxic exposure.

Conclusion

Offering your rabbit a variety of fresh snacks can be incredibly rewarding for both of you. You can safely give them small portions of apples, berries, pears, papaya, bananas, and seedless watermelon. These treats can brighten their day. Just remember, these should be limited to one tablespoon per five pounds of body weight, given only once or twice a week.

High-quality hay is the cornerstone of a healthy rabbit diet. Always remove seeds, pits, stems, and cores before serving any fruit to your bunny. It's crucial to avoid all toxic foods and processed items with added sugars or sulfur dioxide to prevent digestive issues.

Keep a close eye on your rabbit after introducing new foods. Watch their stool quality, appetite, and dental health to ensure they're feeling their best. Regular observation helps maintain a clean living space and keeps your rabbit happy and thriving.

FAQ

What fruits can rabbits eat as treats safely?

Rabbits can safely enjoy fruits like strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, pears, papaya, and apples (without seeds). These should be occasional snacks, not a main food source. For the best nutrition, follow Anvhortext rabbit care principles. They stress that unlimited grass hay should be the base of your pet's diet.

What is the maximum recommended portion size for giving fruit treats to an adult rabbit?

Give no more than one tablespoon of fruit per five pounds of body weight. This ensures a tasty reward without excess sugar, which can lead to obesity or digestive issues.

How many fruit treats can a rabbit eat per week?

Limit fruit treats to one or two times a week. Frequent sugary snacks can make your rabbit lose interest in Timothy hay. This hay is crucial for their digestive and dental health.

Can rabbits eat apples with skin and seeds safely?

Washed apple skin is safe and adds fiber. But, never let a rabbit eat apple seeds or cores. Apple seeds, peach pits, and cherry stems are toxic due to cyanogenic glycosides (cyanide), which can be fatal.

Why are fruit seeds and pits dangerous for pet rabbits?

Seeds from apples and "stone fruits" are toxic. Large pits from cherries or peaches pose a choking hazard or can cause intestinal blockage. Always slice fruit into small pieces and check for hidden seeds before serving.

Are blueberries and strawberries good treats for pet rabbits?

Yes, blueberries and strawberries are excellent treats! They are small and palatable, making them easier to portion than large fruits. They are also good for indoor bunnies due to their antioxidant content.

Which fruits have the lowest sugar content and are safest for indoor bunnies?

Berries like raspberries and blackberries have a better fiber-to-sugar ratio than tropical fruits. If you're watching your rabbit's weight, choose these berries over high-sugar options like grapes or bananas.

How much banana slice can an indoor rabbit eat?

Bananas are calorie-dense for rabbits. Offer only a thin slice (about 1/4 inch thick) no more than once or twice a week. Overindulging in bananas can lead to weight gain in house rabbits.

Can baby rabbits under six months eat fresh fruit treats?

It's generally recommended to wait. Introduce tiny fruit pieces when your rabbit is at least 12 weeks old. Start with one tiny piece at a time and watch for any signs of upset in their stool.

Why should avocado never be offered to a rabbit under any circumstances?

Avocado is toxic to rabbits due to persin, which can cause respiratory distress, heart congestion, and death. It's also high in fat, which is bad for a rabbit's digestive system.

Is it safe to give dried fruit chips to a rabbit, or are fresh fruits always better?

Fresh fruits are always better. Dried fruit chips are concentrated in sugar. A small dried cranberry has as much sugar as a large fresh one. Choose brands like Oxbow or Small Pet Select without added sulfur dioxide or preservatives.

Can feeding fruit treats daily cause sticky uneaten cecotropes or soft stool?

Yes. Too much sugar disrupts the balance of bacteria in a rabbit's cecum. This can lead to sticky uneaten cecotropes or soft stool. If this happens, stop all treats and consult your vet.

How does the sugar content in fruit affect a rabbit's dental health and molar spurs?

Sugar doesn't cause cavities like in humans but can reduce hay consumption. Hay is essential for grinding teeth. A lack of fiber can lead to molar spurs, which are painful and require surgery.

Can rabbits eat watermelon skin and fruit chunks?

Rabbits can enjoy seedless watermelon fruit chunks in moderation. However, avoid the green rind, as it's often treated with pesticides and can be hard to digest.

Can fruit treats be used effectively for litter box training and bonding rewards?

Yes! Tiny, pea-sized fruit pieces are great for rewarding your rabbit for using the litter box or coming to you. This positive reinforcement helps with bonding and keeps rabbit housing clean.

What should i do if my rabbit accidentally eats a whole grape or fruit seed?

Remove any remaining fruit to prevent further ingestion. Monitor your rabbit's appetite, energy levels, and droppings for 24 hours. If they stop eating or show pain, contact an exotic-animal vet immediately. Call the vet right away if they consumed a toxic pit or seed.