Black Oil Sunflower Seeds (BOSS) are high in protein, fiber, calcium, vitamin b-complex, vitamin e, potassium and iron. They are a wonderful addition for rabbits and other small pets during molting season.
BOSS is a wonderful molt (shedding) aid and adds healthy oils into the diet which maintains a healthier coat! While it's great to use during a molt, we recommend that it is not overfed or fed consistently as it can trigger a molt. BOSS is one of the natural aids included in our Molt Season Support Kit.
SEED MYTH
You may have heard that seeds are not good for some small pets, especially rabbits. This is true for smaller seeds that can get stuck in the pylorus and be a potential choking hazard if consumed too quickly. However, larger seeds such as BOSS and pumpkin seeds are perfectly acceptable seeds to offer to small pets in limited quantities. Read our blog post debunking the seed myth!
Many people mistake STRIPED sunflower seeds for BLACK OIL sunflower seeds. They are very different!
❌ STRIPED have thicker, tougher hulls (shells) that are difficult to chew, less nutritious
✔️ BLACK OIL (BOSS): have much thinner, softer shells that are safe and healthy to eat as they add necessary fiber and are a more nutritious seed
Nuts, seeds and grains can be particularly valuable sources of energy for large rabbits such as the giant breeds, wool rabbits such as angoras, fur rabbits such as Rex, and any rabbit living where ambient temperatures are low. These rabbits need more protein and energy, and nuts, seeds and grains can provide both....However, very small seeds (e.g., milo) can be a danger to rabbits because of the possibility a rabbit might swallow them whole. Swallowed whole, small seeds could become stuck in the pylorus and cause a serious blockage. Give your rabbit only larger seeds such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds.
- An excerpt from our mentor Lucile Moore's book Rabbit Nutrition and Nutritional Healing
NET WEIGHT: 6oz (170g)
INGREDIENTS: black oil sunflower seeds* (bits of stem may be mixed in; most rabbits will eat around them however if they don't it is perfectly safe if ingested) (*certified organic)
GUARANTEED ANALYSIS:
Crude Protein (min) 14%
Crude Fat (min) 36%
Crude Fiber (max) 21%
Moisture 8%
SUGGESTED USE: 1 tsp daily per 5 lbs body weight during molting episodes or for healthy weight gain OR only 1-2 times a week as an occasional treat
SUITABLE FOR: rabbits, guinea pigs, chinchillas, hamsters, gerbils, rats, mice
STORAGE: for maximum freshness transfer to an airtight container and store in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight
SHELF LIFE: dried goods will stay viable for 1-3 years if properly stored; beyond that potency begins to decline but they are still safe to consume
QUALITY ASSURANCE: This product has been reviewed and recommended by Lucile Moore PhD, widely recognized rabbit expert and author of Rabbit Nutrition and Nutritional Healing.
Treats should never exceed 2% of your pet's daily diet. Serving size formulated for the average healthy rabbit; consult with an expert about recommended dosage for other species. Minimum age for use is 6 months. Always introduce new foods slowly. Product does not replace proper vet care or medication.
