Rabbit and Real Christmas Tree?

[newchck]

We are planning on getting a real Christmas tree this year. Our rabbit is in our living room (where the tree will be.) He won't have any access to it, and his area is probably a good 15-20ft from where the tree will be. Will the oils in the pine be safe for him? Thanks!

 

[Fluffy Lambs]

@Everose?

 

[HollowOfWisps]

If you Google "pine oil" in regards to it's toxicity to rabbits you will find blogs on how it's toxic for rabbits. However, one must understand that "pine oil" or in these cases pine essential oil is extremely concentrated and diffusing pine essential oil vs. having an actual pine tree in your living room are two VERY different things. Pine forests are actually part of a wild rabbits habitat and they will often nibble on young pines especially in the winter months. I grew up on a 150 acre farm with over 100 acres of it being forest and wild rabbits could almost always be found in the pine groves. They really seemed to love hiding in the brush from fallen pines. I also use to raise rabbits as a kid and every year we had a live tree (many different coniferous species including pine over the years) with no issues. The biggest concern with a live tree is if it was sprayed with pesticide or an artificial scent and your rabbit was able to nibble on it, but since your rabbit will be far enough away that shouldn't be an issue.

 

[Everose]

He'll probably be fine. HollowOfWisps covered everything.
I know LOTS of people who give their rabbits pinecones and pine sticks to chew on. I don't have pine trees or real Christmas trees but as long as your bun doesn't intake a large amount of something new and isn't being fogged by an EOs diffuser I think you're good.