One of the age-old questions routinely asked by pet owners is ‘what should I feed them?’
It can be hard to know just what foodstuffs we should give to our pets, and how that will react with their digestive system. It’s not uncommon for pet owners to wonder if they should give raw or cooked meat to their pets or not. Should we give them processed foods? What differences do small cans of pet food have over leftovers we have on hand?
Furthermore, this changes between pets. A small tabby cat will require a much different diet to a large Great Dane, despite both having the appetite of a carnivore.
When dealing with smaller pets, such as rabbits or hamsters, it can be harder to understand what their needs are.
These questions may run through your mind - and it’s always better to be safe than sorry. So, let us go about answering them for you. We hope it helps:
What foods are safe for Hamsters to Eat?
Hamsters can eat a wide array of foodstuffs, but what they do eat is often restricted to a few distinct categories.
This includes dry food, fruits and vegetables. All must be fresh. A little protein can also work wonders in helping them grow in strength. Remember - aside from the pouches hamsters enjoy storing food in, they are little rodents with small stomachs and mouths. They can fill easily, and so it’s important not to let them get overweight - as this can lead them to suffer from health issues.
Cabbage, peas, and sometimes small amounts of boiled egg for protein can be good to feed them. Hamster pellets are also used in order to give your hamster a balanced diet, yet of course, fresh food is always superior.
Can hamsters eat grapes?
Hamsters can eat grapes, but you should be sparing, as they have a high sugar content.
Can hamsters eat cheese?
Hamsters can eat cheese, but in small quantities. This can also be a good way to give them additional protein in their diet. However, this shouldn’t be a staple.
Can hamsters eat apples?
Apples can be fed to hamsters. Be sure to cut them up into tiny little cubes or slices, and again, their sugary content means they should be used sparingly.
Can hamsters eat cucumber?
Yes, hamsters can eat cucumber. Slice thinly once or twice a week, and they’re sure to appreciate it.
Can hamsters eat strawberries?
Strawberries can be fed to hamsters. Be sure to give them small cubes to nibble on, to make it easier for them to eat and digest.
Can hamsters eat bananas?
Like strawberries, bananas are safe to eat. Dried or fresh, bananas can be a good staple in the diet of any hamster.
Can hamsters eat carrots?
Hamsters are safe for hamsters to eat. Again, cut them small as they are otherwise quite hard. Carrots can also serve as a good dental cleanser, as they provide natural roughage.
Can hamsters eat lettuce?
Iceberg lettuce has little nutritional value for a hamster and has been known to cause digestive issues, and eventual diarrhea. Romaine lettuce, on the other hand, is known to be safer for them to eat.
Can hamsters eat tomatoes?
This should be a rare implement in their diet, but they can eat little tomatoes (preferably cherry) as a treat. However, not all hamsters will wish to eat them, so your mileage may vary.
Can hamsters eat blueberries?
Yes, but like other fruits in this list, keep the quantities small. The last thing you need to experience is a hamster sugar-rush.
Can hamsters eat broccoli?
Yes, and it is very nutritionally dense for them, as it is for humans. However, moderation is always the best policy - about twice a week at most will work best.
Can hamsters eat celery?
Celery is considered a superfood in the hamster world. However, they only require around a quarter teaspoon or less of this each week.
Can hamsters eat peppers?
No. They are known to cause digestive issues in hamsters. Stay well clear.
Can hamsters eat bread?
Surprisingly they can, but only brown, and only extremely sparingly. This can be a treat for them, but if you want to give them the best diet possible, limit this as much as you can.
Can hamsters eat raspberries?
Yes! Raspberries are completely safe, yet still do adhere to our ‘sugary fruits’ rule.
Can hamsters eat spinach?
Your hamster won’t be gaining the strength of Popeye anytime soon, but it’s true that spinach can serve as a nice leafy snack for them.
Can hamsters eat cabbage?
Cabbage is nutritionally dense and viable for hamsters. Be sure to shred it thinly and only feed them a small amount each week.
Can hamsters eat chocolate?
Hamsters can suffer from theobromine poisoning if given chocolate. Best to steer clear.
Can hamsters eat raisins?
In moderation, yes! They are dried grapes, after all.
Can hamsters eat watermelon?
Yes! In small amounts. Slice thinly and remove the rind before ‘serving’.
Can hamsters eat mushrooms?
It’s best not to give your hamster mushrooms, as the scientific data is inconclusive at this time.
Can hamsters eat oranges?
The acidity of citrus means that oranges, even in small amounts, are not suitable for hamsters.
Can hamsters eat cauliflower?
Like broccoli, hamsters love cauliflower. Their fibrous nature can be something of a dental aid, but be sure to serve in moderation.
Can hamsters eat kale?
Kale can be a great snack for a hamster. As in humans, it could even be considered a superfood.
Can hamsters eat melon?
Yes. Again, to avoid digestive issues and diarrhoea, serve in trace amounts.
Can hamsters eat pears?
They can! Make sure the pear is sufficiently ripe and sliced before giving it to your hamster. Dried pear can also work, but serve both in moderation.
Can hamsters eat pumpkin?
Yes, but before your hamster becomes overly excited to join in the Halloween celebrations, be sure to only give them this in moderation, because it’s very high in fibre.
Can hamsters eat sweetcorn?
Yes, your hamster can eat sweetcorn. Be sure to give them individual kernels rather than an entire ear.
Can hamsters eat almonds?
Yes, but only sweet almonds, not bitter almonds. Only give them a small amount.
Can hamsters eat courgette?
Yes. If you cut them up small, they can also eat the seeds and skin.
In Conclusion
A mixed hamster feed is often the best option when feeding your hamster, but with this list, you can also supplement or substitute their diet with little additions. Just make sure they keep a healthy weight, and you’ll be caring for them well.