Re: My JR likes to bite off young elm tree leaves

In Reply to: My JR likes to bite off young elm tree leaves
Category:   Other
Posted by:  Pat Sledge
Posted on:  November 03, 2002 at 13:39:44

: Althought he doesn't chew on plants of other types, My Rebel likes to chew or at least bite on the leaves of young elm trees. Any ideas what might be there that he likes? Do you think it might be a problem?

Response:

Dear Pat, Thanks for asking the Forum this quirky question.

Jacks do seem to develop some mighty strange diet preferences. Why yours has decided that elm leaves are wonderful is beyond me (I know, you were hoping for an answer).

I've heard of JR's who steal and eat tomatoes out of the garden; Mine wouldn't eat a tomato if it was the last food item on earth. To be safe, I would check with NetVet or SPCA Poison Control, and research the toxicity, if any, of elm. How about adding some un-salted, cooked green beans to Rebel's food, a couple times a week. This may satisfy the need for "something" green.

Best of luck, and thanks again. We'll see if anyone else has elm-eating JRT's.