Can Hamsters Eat Pomegranate Seeds? The 100 New Answer

What’s better than a sweet, dripping slice of delicious pineapple? Nothing tastes like summer anymore. So if you snack on a piece of this delicious tropical fruit, can you share some with your hamster? Yes you can!

Of course, there are some things to consider, like the fact that pineapple is high in sugar and acid. So you shouldn’t give it to them in large quantities or at every feeding – but occasionally it’s okay. Let’s learn more about the benefits and risks.

How Much Pineapple Should You Feed Your Hamster?

Just because hamsters can indulge in a juicy piece of pineapple doesn’t mean they should eat it at will. You need to carefully portion out a hamster-sized portion.

Because pet hamsters can vary in size by breed, there is a general rule of thumb to guide you. Check the size of your hamster’s paw. The piece of pineapple you give them should be about this size.

In the beginning, it wouldn’t hurt to just give a pinch – just to see how they react. You shouldn’t give them this tasty fruit more than once a week. It may not seem like a lot, but for your little hamster, it is.

How to serve pineapple to your hamster

All pineapple chunks should be skinless and soft to the touch. The core and skin of the pineapple are not good for your hamster. You could potentially choke or even puncture an intestine if your hamster swallows sharp or hard parts. Only offer the fleshy parts of the fruit in bite-sized pieces.

Health Benefits of Pineapple for Hamsters

Just like humans, hamsters can reap the benefits of pineapples. There are tons of powerful properties and nutrients in this fruit when presented in the right portions.

Pineapple health benefits include: Vitamin C – boosts immunity

— boosts immunity Fiber — supports healthy digestion

— supports healthy digestion Manganese — improves the nervous system

– Improvement of the nervous system Antioxidants – Elimination and fight against diseases

A healthy balance of pineapples in your hamster’s diet can be rewarding.

Risks of pineapple for hamsters

Regular servings of pineapple won’t harm your hamster, but too much can. If you stick to the paw measure it shouldn’t be a problem. But too much at once or over time can lead to health problems.

Weight gain and obesity – the high sugar content in pineapples can lead to both weight gain and obesity over time.

The high sugar content in pineapples can lead to both weight gain and obesity over time. Digestive Issues – Pineapple’s high acidity can cause gastrointestinal issues, leading to potential upsets.

The high acid levels in pineapple can cause gastrointestinal problems, leading to potential upsets. Nutritional issues – too much pineapple can deplete other vital nutrients.

Kind of pineapple for hamsters

We humans can enjoy pineapples whether they are canned, fresh, dried or frozen, but what about hamsters? The truth is that fresh is always best. But that doesn’t mean you can’t replace if you don’t have one.

Canned, frozen and dried are also perfectly acceptable. Just remember the paw rule and don’t give them more than that. Also, never give them pineapple with added sugar – it already has a lot of natural sugars.

Will all hamsters like pineapple?

Most hamsters will enjoy the sweet, juicy goodness of the pineapple. But that doesn’t mean all of them will. If you find that they leave the fruit untouched, you may need to move on to find tastier treats.

Pineapple has a very strong, juicy taste. If your hamster prefers milder foods, it may just be too much for them.

Pineapple and Hamsters: Final Thoughts

Next time you’re ready to give your hamster the royal treatment, pineapple is a perfectly safe and tasty treat. Remember, give a meaty chunk no larger than your hamster’s paw. Because of the sugar content, you should not offer this fruit more than once a week. Chubby hamsters may be cute, but obesity is unhealthy for them.

So let your hamster eat, but remember moderation. No matter how much they poke their little noses through their cage bars, don’t overfeed them anything — especially something acidic and sugary like pineapple.

Relatives reads:

Hamsters and other gerbils don’t need a lot of variety in their diet. Instead, they like to follow a simple meal plan consisting of high-quality commercial pet food mixes. These foods meet all of their nutritional needs.

Even though they have everything they need in store-bought food, they are your pet and you probably want to spoil them. Although treats should never make up more than 10% of a pet’s diet, a special treat every few days can be fun.

The twist is making sure it’s healthy for them rather than hurting them or encouraging them to gain weight. Instead of trying to memorize all the different foods they can eat, refer to this list.

Top 15 things not to feed hamsters:

1. Bitter Almonds

Why the emphasis only on bitter almonds? Because sweet almonds are perfectly fine for a hamster. Bitter almonds contain traces of cyanide, a deadly poison. If we were to eat the treat, it would not harm us. However, our little friends cannot take even the smallest amount and the almond could poison them.

Remember that even if you buy a packet of sweet almonds from a store, it doesn’t mean you’re completely out of your mind. The US Department of Agriculture allows each bag of sweet almonds to contain 1% bitter almonds. Even that 1% means taking the risk of killing a hamster.

Almonds should be considered an occasional treat anyway as they are high in fat. Feeding hamsters high-fat food causes harmful weight gain.

2. Potatoes

Keep the nutritional value of potato chips in mind when considering feeding potatoes to your hamster. Although they taste great, they don’t give hamsters any substance in their bodies.

Potatoes are filled with starch and will quickly make your hamster burst. They don’t need “fillers” in their meals.

3. Celery

Because hamsters are omnivores, many people think that any plant should be fine for them. While this is true for some plant varieties, this assumption can be harmful.

Celery is one of the plants that hamsters should not eat. They are not poisonous to a hamster, but pose a choking hazard due to their threadlike structure. If you want to feed them celery, cut them into tiny pieces to make them smaller. The cutting makes it so that these strings are short enough to be safe.

4. Onion family

Any plant in the onion family tends to be poisonous to small mammals such as hamsters, rabbits, and guinea pigs. These plants include things like:

Not feeding them plants of this family means not feeding them either the bulbous, herbal part of the plant or the leaves.

5. Spicy and seasoned foods

Think of the kind of things hamsters would find to eat in the wild. You will not have a five course meal with different flavors, nor do you want to. Anything spicy or overly flavorful can irritate your hamster’s gastrointestinal tract. Avoid this by not feeding them leftover food. Even simple flavors like salt and pepper can make food difficult to digest.

6. Kidney Beans

Most beans should be avoided if you are feeding your hamster a special treat. They give them gas and tend to gas because they are difficult to digest. However, kidney beans are dangerous because they are poisonous when uncooked. Even cooked, they present problems for hamsters, who should never eat anything processed or cooked.

7. Light green leafy vegetables

Light green leaves cause digestive problems for hamsters. They don’t have much nutritional value. Instead, they cause diarrhea. Instead, choose darker greens like dandelion leaves, romaine lettuce, kale, and carrot tops.

8. Synthetic Sugars

Just like the rest of us, hamsters love a tasty, sugary treat. Given the choice between a high-sugar food and a healthier food, they will always choose sugar. Limit their options and only give them fruit treats once or twice a week.

Never give your hamster chocolate or other sweets. These synthetic sugars are harsh on them, and their little bodies aren’t built to handle them well.

9. Tomato leaves and stems

Although tomatoes can be a treat that’s fine for hamsters, they should be a rare treat. The leaves and stems cannot be included, although they are dark green. They are toxic to a hamster and too much of it can end up killing it.

10. Plants treated with pesticides

Any plant you feed your hamster should be checked to see if it is right for him. However, this is not the last step. Be sure to wash it off after picking it up, even if it’s fresh.

Any plants that are treated with chemicals of any kind can pose significant health problems to a hamster. The reason for this is their small size. Even if the chemical amount is legal for human consumption, trace amounts can be harmful to a hamster.

11. Seeds

Seeds seem like the perfect bite-sized snack for a hamster. However, they are still not small enough to be safe and can pose a choking hazard. Even if a seed is the right size to swallow and digest, many are high in fat. Anything high in fat should be avoided to maintain a balanced weight.

In addition to being high in fat and being a choking hazard, many fruit seeds contain traces of a deadly toxin called cyanide. Although we can usually accidentally eat them, these seeds often have enough to kill a hamster. These include apple, cherry and pear seeds.

12. Other animal feed

While it is good never to feed hamsters meat, you should realize that they should never eat kibble from other animals either. For a balanced diet, an omnivore needs a certain amount of protein. This protein gets mixed into the dry food and can cause problems in a hamster. Other animal foods to avoid are those made for cats, dogs, or ferrets, to name a few.

13. Caffeine

Hamsters regulate their own heartbeat quite well. Their hearts are already beating very quickly, at 10-15 beats per second. Too much caffeine further increases heart rate and can cause cardiac arrest or other cardiovascular problems.

14. Plants high in oxalic acid

Some plants are high in oxalic acid, and acidic foods should be avoided for a hamster. Vegetables like rhubarb leaves have high amounts of this substance. To help you identify the types of plants that go with this, a good rule of thumb is anything that has naturally colored leaves with red or yellow veins with a higher oxalic acid content. Some of them are:

15. Dairy products

Aside from mother’s milk, there’s no reason a guinea pig would find any dairy product in the wild. Feeding milk or other dairy products to your hamster can lead to weight gain and will not give your pet the nutrition they need. Many serious problems can develop from this. Avoid products like:

Keeping your hamster healthy and happy throughout his life is a top priority for any hamster owner. Knowing what they should and shouldn’t eat is a big step in the right direction to protect them. There are so many treats that will supplement a hamster’s diet with vital nutrients. Feed them in moderation to bond with your furry friend and spoil them a little.

Selected picture credits: justus_joseph, Pixabay

What Treats You Should (And Shouldn’t) Feed Your Hamster

Let’s eat! What Treats You Should (And Shouldn’t) Feed Your Hamster

Because hamsters are omnivores, meaning they eat both animal and plant foods, they can enjoy a variety of foods in their diet. That being said, their main diet should be a high-quality commercial pellet that contains all of the vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients they need to meet their nutritional needs. In addition to their daily pelleted food, hamsters love the occasional treat – and it’s always fun to watch your pet enjoy a variety of tasty snacks. Just remember that treats should never make up more than 10% of your pet’s total diet and any dietary changes should be made gradually. Rapid changes in a hamster’s diet can cause stress, leading them to overeat and develop diarrhea – commonly referred to as wet tail.

Safe food for hamsters

If your hamster deserves a small treat, consider some of the following:

Grains ˇ Grains make up a large part of a hamster’s diet. They provide protein and carbohydrates and can come from prepared hamster mixes or from fresh foods such as unsweetened whole grains, whole wheat bread, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, and unsalted, unbuttered popcorn. If you offer a ready-made hamster mix as a treat, make sure it doesn’t contain too many high-fat nuts and seeds, as these foods promote obesity. Vegetables ˇ Fresh, organic vegetables are best. Romaine lettuce, dandelions, cauliflower, carrot tops, broccoli, spinach, sweet potatoes, squash, artichokes, and any other dark green vegetable are good choices. Avoid iceberg lettuce and other vegetables or fruits like watermelon, which are high in water content and low in nutritional value. Remember to wash vegetables thoroughly to remove traces of harmful pesticides and only feed small amounts of produce at a time. Fruit ˇ Hamsters love apples, pears, strawberries, blueberries, grapes and bananas. Fruit should be offered in moderation as a supplement to their regular pelleted diet. Remove vegetables or fruit that will not be eaten within 10-12 hours to keep them from spoiling. Timothy Hay ˇ Hay is a great rodent food that can help keep your hamster’s continuously growing teeth at a healthy length and in good condition. Protein ˇ As omnivores, hamsters may have some animal protein in their diet, such as: B. hard-boiled eggs, boiled chicken, and occasionally a live mealworm or cricket. Hamsters love these high protein treats – make sure you offer them in moderation so they continue to eat their base pellet diet. Clean, fresh, filtered, chlorine-free water ˇ Water should be available to your hamster at all times and should be changed daily.

Foods not to feed your hamster

Just as important as knowing what is safe to feed your pet is knowing what not to feed your hamster. The following foods should never be offered to hamsters as they are toxic and can cause serious medical problems: Chocolate

caffeine

alcohol

Excess sugar or fat

onions and garlic

Apple seeds (contain toxic cyanide)

rhubarb

Shelled peanuts (may contain traces of toxic mold)

A balanced hamster mix is ​​often recommended as the best food for these critters. However, you must have a basic understanding of foods that are safe for hamsters.

Hamsters are rodents that are very popular as pets. These small, furry creatures are loved by children and adults alike for their antics. In addition, hamsters are not fussy and easy to care for. This does not mean that you are relieved of your responsibility towards your pet.

hamster diet

Hamsters feed on a wide variety of foods such as grains, nuts, fruits, vegetables, grains, and crackers. The list can be endless as these critters love to stuff their mouths with anything and everything that comes their way. In their natural habitat, hamsters feed on nuts, grains, pieces of fruit and vegetables lying on the ground, etc. They can also eat small insects such as crickets and fruit flies. Although hamsters like to eat different types of food, some of them can be harmful to these animals. Eating certain things can make the animal sick and in some cases even fatal. Having a basic understanding of hamster diets is therefore beneficial if you intend to keep these animals as pets.

Despite being omnivores, hamsters tend to lean towards the vegetarian side. However, you must also give them protein-rich foods. The following are some of the best foods that are safe for hamsters.

Since hamsters need protein for healthy growth, you can provide them with cheese (especially cottage cheese), boiled or scrambled eggs, mealworms, crickets, grasshoppers, cooked poultry or beef (no fat), cereal, seeds and nuts, cooked rice, and in Bread soaked in milk.

Hamsters will eat fruits such as seedless apples, pitted peaches and plums, lychees, raspberries, seedless grapes, strawberries, bananas, cranberries, blackberries, and raisins.

Hamsters also love vegetables. You can give them vegetables like beets, carrots, cabbage, broccoli, cucumbers, celery, cauliflower, clover, spinach, corn, green beans, boiled beans, corn, watercress, zucchini, and asparagus.

Hamster favorite foods include cheese, boiled beans, pickles, apples, carrots, leafy greens, toasted bread, dog biscuits, rice, etc.

While Roborovskis love Chinese cabbage, birdseed, and sweetcorn, Syrian hamsters enjoy a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and grains. Therefore, the choice of food can vary depending on the hamster species.

A healthy and balanced hamster mix can meet most of the nutritional needs of these pets. You can offer other foods as occasional treats.

Whenever you introduce a food to your hamster, you must start with very small amounts. This applies to all fruits, vegetables and other foods. Also, treats should not be given in large quantities.

While the above foods are safe for hamsters to eat, there are certain foods that can make the animal sick. Hamsters should not be fed almonds, rhubarb, raw potatoes, onions, garlic, chocolate, raw beans, raw kidney beans, foods containing whole grain oats, eggplant, apple seeds, canned foods, citrus fruits, tomatoes and watermelon. Since these animals are nocturnal, feed them in the evening. Never use plastic bowls for feeding. In addition to the right food, make sure you have fresh water and a spacious and clean home.

Small mammals and rodents

Signs of heat intolerance are:

Ways to keep your small pet cool in non-emergency situations

! First it snows, then it’s 35 degrees. If you’re like me (and most other Canadians), adjusting to the changing temperatures can be difficult. Unfortunately, it can be just as challenging and even dangerous for our pets. This short article covers signs of heat intolerance in small mammals and rodents and simple ways to keep your animals cool. • Lethargy (lack of exercise, lack of energy, sluggishness, limping when picked up) • Panting, difficult breathing • Dehydration • Feet and tails that feel hot • Lying flat on stomach • Drooling • Unconsciousness Rodents and other small mammals do not sweat like humans and therefore do ; can’t cool down their bodies that quickly. In an emergency heat stroke situation, never immerse your pets in cold water! This could put them into shock or they could inhale water. Instead, try spraying them lightly with a spray bottle, wiping them down with a damp cloth, placing them next to an ice pack wrapped in a towel (only under direct supervision!), and then call your vet right away! The first thing to make sure your pet’s cage is in the coolest room in the house or, if that’s not possible, out of direct sunlight stretch out. These are available at most hardware stores for pennies to a few dollars. Wrap them in tea towels and place them under half of the cage for your pet to cool off when needed, or give them an ice cube to play with. Make sure fresh water is always available! for pets that can eat it (such as hedgehogs, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, rats and others). Rats especially enjoy “pea fishing,” a game in which they are provided with a shallow bowl of water with frozen peas floating in it. They have to get a little wet to grab the frozen treat, which helps keep them cool and gives them some fun! But be careful not to overdo it! Rabbits and guinea pigs, for example, eat mostly hay; Vegetables are an important supplement, but shouldn’t make up more than 10% of the daily diet, even in hot weather, and try to keep them quiet. Pets who are being treated or who are very active in running around and playing are at an additional risk of developing heatstroke. I hope these tips help your pet stay cool on those crazy summer days. If you have any questions, concerns or comments, please feel free to contact us here at the clinic!

Corona viruses are a large family of viruses. Some coronaviruses cause the common cold in humans, while others cause disease in certain animal species, such as cattle, camels and bats. Some coronaviruses, such as canine and feline coronaviruses, only infect animals and not humans. Some coronaviruses that infect animals can be transmitted to humans and then spread between humans, but this is rare. This happened to SARS-CoV-2, which likely originated in bats.

Risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from humans to animals

Humans can transmit SARS-CoV-2 to animals, especially through close contact.

Animals infected with SARS-CoV-2 have been documented worldwide. Most of these animals became infected with COVID-19 after contact with humans, including owners, carers or others who were in close contact. We do not yet know all animals that can become infected. Animals infected worldwide include:

Companion animals, including domestic cats, dogs, hamsters and ferrets.

Animals in zoos and sanctuaries including several species of big cats (e.g. lion, tiger, snow leopard), otter, non-human primate, a binturong, coati, fishing cat, hyena, hippopotamus and manatee.

Mink on mink farms.

Wildlife including white-tailed deer, mule deer, a black-tailed marmoset, giant anteater and wild mink near mink farms.

For information on protecting pets and animals, go to

Risk of transmission of SARS-CoV-2 from animals to humans

The risk of animals transmitting COVID-19 to humans is considered low.

There is no evidence that animals play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, to humans. There have been some reports of infected mammals transmitting the virus to humans through close contact, but this is rare. These cases include farmed mink in Europe and the United States, white-tailed deer in Canada, pet hamsters in Hong Kong, and a cat in Thailand. In most of these cases, the animals were known to have first been infected with COVID-19 by a person.

It’s important to remember that humans are much more likely to get COVID-19 from other humans than from animals. There is no need to euthanize or otherwise harm animals infected with SARS-CoV-2.

There is a possibility that the virus could infect animals, mutate, and spread a new strain back to humans, and then among humans (so-called spillback). Further studies and surveillance are needed to track variants and mutations and to understand how SARS-CoV-2 spreads between humans and animals.

Mink and SARS-CoV-2

SARS-CoV-2 has been reported in farmed mink in several countries. There is currently no evidence that mink play a significant role in spreading COVID-19 to humans.

In the United States, respiratory illnesses and an increase in mink deaths have been observed on most affected mink farms. However, some infected mink may also appear healthy. Infected workers likely introduced SARS-CoV-2 into mink on the farms, and the virus then began spreading among the mink. Once introduced on a farm, the virus can be transmitted between mink and from mink to other animals on the farm (dogs, cats). A wild mink and a small number of escaped farm mink trapped near affected farms in Utah and Oregon were found to be infected with SARS-CoV-2.

Although there is no evidence that mink play a significant role in spreading SARS-CoV-2 to humans, there is a possibility that mink could transmit SARS-CoV-2 to humans and other animals on mink farms. The spread of SARS-CoV-2 from mink to humans has been reported in the Netherlands, Denmark and Poland, and data suggests it may have occurred in the United States.

3. Hamster balls can cause injury and even death.

Because the hamster has trouble using their senses very well in an exercise ball, they are unable to maneuver or stop whenever necessary and will often collide with walls or furniture throughout the home. It could even roll off unleveled surfaces, causing serious injuries like sprains, trauma, fractures and even internal injuries that are likely to go unnoticed. A hamster’s feet can also get stuck in the exercise ball’s vents, which can result in the leg being injured when the ball rolls or, in the worst case, amputated.

4. Hamster balls can cause infection due to pooling of urine and feces.

The small ventilation slits in the hamster ball allow faeces and urine to accumulate over time. Hamsters under stress often urinate and defecate more, resulting in a very dirty interior space that the hamster will keep walking into since it cannot leave the ball. Over time, this can lead to bacterial infections. Excessive contact of urine on the hamster’s skin could also cause ammonia burns, another serious medical issue that could result from using these exercise balls.

5. Hamster balls provide limited ventilation and trap heat.

The vents on an exercise ball are extremely small and often become clogged with feces during use. As a result, the ventilation inside the ball is actually pretty poor, leading to more stress for the hamster inside. In addition, the dark translucent colors of the ball absorb more heat and increase the temperature inside the ball. The hamster cannot cool down or get water, which could lead to dehydration.

Conclusion

Given the hamster’s natural instinct to feed and hide when in danger, it would never willingly get into a ball with very limited ventilation and no access to food and water to run around. They would much rather and love to explore their environment first-hand.

Hamsters always need a wheel (not a ball) in their cage where they can walk freely in an enclosed area with a straight back. They should be able to get on and off their bike at any time. A smaller wheel or ball could result in injury, stress, or pain.

Hamsters cannot appreciate the danger they are in – you as their owner are responsible for that. Although your hamster seems to love running around in his ball to explore your home, it is ultimately dangerous for him to do so in this way. There are many other safe ways for your hamster to enrich itself outside of its cage without the use of an exercise ball.

Alternative safer solutions

Please ensure that your hamster is closely monitored at all times.

Whether you’re a hamster veteran or just welcoming a new ball of fur into your home, these tips will help you keep your hamster healthy and happy!

Let your hamster eat well! However, what you eat is just as important as how much you eat. Hamsters like to pick the tasty fattening feed out of the bowl first. You’ll often see the sunflower seeds disappear first, followed by the less fatty (and less tasty) seeds. It is very important that you provide your hamster with a balanced diet. Just because they love sunflower seeds doesn’t mean that’s all they should be eating! Kids love cookies, but they also need their fruit and veg.

Speaking of fruits and vegetables – hamsters need them too! The best treats for hamsters are foods that are similar to what they would eat in the wild. Fresh (rinsed with water) vegetables are good, and examples include carrots, squash, broccoli, cauliflower, cucumber, romaine lettuce, spinach, and other vegetables. Fresh fruit (rinsed in water) is also good, such as apples, pears, bananas, grapes, and most berries. But remember never to give citrus fruits like oranges, limes, lemons or grapefruit. Only give small amounts at a time.

In addition to fresh fruit and vegetables, hamsters love wholemeal bread and muesli. Protein is also an important part of a hamster’s diet. Plain scrambled or boiled eggs are a nice treat. When preparing dinner for your hamsters, remember that moderation and variety are very important. Always provide the standard seed and pellet mix daily and offer just a few of these extra treats.

Make the bed for your hamster. Choose the bedding for your hamster carefully. Some types of bedding, such as B. cedar shavings, can cause skin irritation due to the oils in the cedar shavings. Change your hamster’s bedding regularly, and while you’re at it, give his cage a thorough scrubbing. Also, be sure to rinse his water bottle, as room temperature water can grow algae and pick up bacteria that make a hamster sick. Your little furball will be a lot happier (and less smelly) in a clean cage.

Hamsters appreciate spacious and exciting living spaces just as much as we do. Your hamster needs space to exercise and exercise in his own cute way. Kitchen roll holders, plain brown boxes and the like are cheap entertainment and regularly offer your hamster something to chew on. There are also many great toys that you can buy for your four-legged friend.

When it comes to cages, you can opt for plastic or wire, but be aware that hamsters chew, so keep an eye on your hamster and make sure he doesn’t successfully create his own version of “The Great Escape.”

Speaking of chewing, did you know that a hamster’s teeth grow like fingernails? Amazingly, hamster teeth never stop growing and they are one of the few furry creatures that are born with a full set of teeth! Hamsters usually take care of their own teeth by chewing on hard objects (like paper towel rolls or wooden treats). Dog biscuits are also a great treat as they are hard and help keep a hamster’s teeth short whilst being a good source of calcium! If you ever notice your hamster having trouble eating, it could mean his teeth need to be trimmed by a professional!

Put your hamster’s cage in a safe place — not in direct sunlight or on top of a heater, not in the dark, cold basement, and not in an exposed spot where his cage could be knocked over by other pets or wobbly toddlers.

Exercise! Hamsters need to exercise or they will get digestive problems, get big and fat, and have other health problems. Make sure your hamster has access to toys like a running wheel or things to climb on. Pipe attachments to a plastic cage allow you to expand his play areas by building on his cage – if it’s the right type of cage – and you can also make him spin in a hamster ball.

Decide from the start whether your hamster wants a friend or not! Hamsters are not always the friendliest to others, especially hamsters who are introduced later in life. If you decide to get more than one hamster, make sure you get the same sex. Hamsters are productive little creatures. A hamster litter can be anywhere from 3 to 18 years old and mothers can give birth about every 30 days. Female hamsters usually have 2-3 litters in their lifetime.

If you have any questions or concerns, you should always visit or call your veterinarian – they are your best resource for ensuring the health and well-being of your pets.

Proper diet and nutrition are critical to keeping your hamster fit and healthy for as long as possible. A hamster’s diet should consist primarily of the same commercially manufactured pelleted rodent chow that mice and rats eat.

Pet parents also have the option of purchasing commercially available hamster seed food. However, be aware that this diet should not be your hamster’s primary food source as it can lead to deficiencies in vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

What do hamsters eat?

A healthy pelleted hamster rodent diet should contain approximately the following:

15-25% protein

35-40% carbohydrates

4-5% fat and

5% crude fiber

Work with your vet to determine your hamster’s calorie needs based on its size and health, but most hamsters require ⅛-⅓ cup of pellets per day. Because they are nocturnal, most hamsters feed at night.

Some hamster foods consist primarily of seeds. These foods should only be added to a pellet diet or not at all. Hamsters that are fed only seeds are deficient in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin E and calcium. Seed diets are also high in sugar and fat, which can lead to diabetes and obesity. You can also supplement your hamster’s diet with vegetables and small amounts of fruit as treats. However, their main diet should be pelleted rodent chow.

Fresh water should be provided to your hamster every day. Hamsters drink about 10 milliliters of water per 100 grams of body weight every day. It is best to provide water in a bottle with a stainless steel spout.

What Human Foods Can Hamsters Eat?

All human foods should be fed in moderation and are not necessary if you are feeding your hamster a balanced pellet diet. Foods that are safe for hamsters include:

Sugar free breakfast cereals or grains

Green

seed

carrots

apples

raisins

Peas

pepper

cucumbers

Avoid giving your hamster dried fruits and vegetables as they are high in sugar.

Frequently asked questions about food for hamsters

Can hamsters eat grapes?

Yes, but in moderation or just as an occasional treat because they’re high in sugar.

Can hamsters eat bananas?

Yes, but in moderation or just as an occasional treat because they’re high in sugar.

Can hamsters eat apples?

Yes, but in moderation or just as an occasional treat because they’re high in sugar. Do not feed your hamster apple seeds or skins.

Can hamsters eat carrots?

Yes, but in moderation or just as an occasional treat because they’re high in sugar.

Can hamsters eat celery?

Yes, celery can be fed occasionally, but not too much to avoid diarrhea.

Can hamsters eat lettuce?

Yes, leafy greens can be fed, but not too much to avoid diarrhea.

Can hamsters eat broccoli?

Yes, broccoli can be fed occasionally, but not too much.

Can hamsters eat oranges?

No, it is not recommended to feed hamsters oranges or other citrus fruits.

references

1. Brown, Susan. Veterinary Partner. Hamsters as pets. January 2000.

2. Mitchell, Sandra. Veterinary Partner. Keeping and medical care of hamsters. April 2020.

3. Pollock, Christal. LafeberVet. Key information sheet: hamster. February 2010.

4. Quesenberry, K., Orcutt, C., et al. Ferrets, Rabbits, and Rodents: Clinical Medicine and Surgery. 4th ed. Elsevier; 2020

5. Suckow, M., Stevens, K., et al. Laboratory rabbits, guinea pigs, hamsters and other rodents. Elsevier Academic Press; 2012

Featured image: iStock.com/fantom_rd

Watermelon is a refreshing, ripe fruit, ahem, vegetable that’s the perfect summertime treat for us humans. But is it safe to feed it to your hamster? Yes it is! All types of hamsters, including dwarf, robotic, and Syrian hamsters, are safe to eat watermelon in moderation.

If you want to learn more about the health benefits of watermelon for your hamster, how much you should be feeding him, and which parts of a watermelon he is safe to eat, read on to learn more.

Health Benefits of Watermelon

The watermelon lives up to its name because it is almost 100% water! As expected, this vegetable is also low in fat, containing only about 43 calories per cup.

Not only can consuming watermelon help you stay adequately hydrated, but it’s also a great source of vitamin C and carotenoids. Eating watermelon can help boost collagen production, improve circulatory system health, fight heart disease, lower blood pressure, and help fight infections.

How to feed your hamster watermelon

To feed your hamster this healthy and tasty treat, you should always wash the watermelon first to get rid of any pesticides. Only give your hamster fresh, organic watermelon chunks. Never serve your pet watermelon in yogurt or juices. Just give him plain watermelon chunks.

If your hamster isn’t used to eating fresh vegetables, start by giving him a very small piece. You can either hand feed your hamster the watermelon or mix the piece into his regular food.

Never give your Syrian hamster more than a teaspoon of watermelon per week. Roborovski and dwarf hamsters, which are smaller, should be fed less.

Possible risks of feeding watermelon to your hamster

While there are many healthy benefits for your pet, there are some risks of feeding your hamster watermelon. This can include:

Obesity: Hamsters are easily obese. Because of this, you must always feed them treats in moderation.

: Hamsters are easily obese. Because of this, you must always feed them treats in moderation. Choking: Hamsters can choke on large chunks of watermelon. Always cut the watermelon for your furry friend into small, bite-sized pieces.

: Hamsters can choke on large chunks of watermelon. Always cut the watermelon for your furry friend into small, bite-sized pieces. Diabetes: Because watermelon is high in sugar, feeding your pet too much of it can lead to diabetes.

: Because watermelon is high in sugar, feeding your pet too much of it can lead to diabetes. Dehydration: As mentioned earlier, watermelon contains a lot of water. Too much of this juicy vegetable can cause dehydration and diarrhea in your hamster.

Can hamsters eat watermelon seeds and peel?

While hamsters will love feasting on the fragrant watermelon pulp, they might be put off by the rind. This is because it contains a highly flavored amino acid called citrulline, which may not be pleasing to the palate.

It depends on the seeds. Syrian hamsters can probably eat seeds without any problems. The smaller breeds of hamsters, including dwarf and robohammies, can choke on the seeds, so avoid giving them that part.

Never offer your hamster watermelon juice or any other juice. Juice contains a lot of sugar and can easily dehydrate your small pet.

The right hamster diet

Never feed your hamster just watermelons. It should be given as an occasional treat.

Proper hamster nutrition includes:

What are healthy alternatives to watermelon for hamsters?

If you want to change things up, try offering your hamster the following treats: Celery

celery

broccoli

broccoli

As with watermelon, all of these options should only be fed to your hamster as an occasional treat.

The final result

Fresh, pre-rinsed, organic watermelon, when given in moderation, is perfectly safe and even beneficial for your Hammie. Never give your hamster large amounts of watermelon or watermelon juice.

If you want to give your pet a tasty and healthy treat, give your hamster a small piece of watermelon today!

Raisins are a healthy and tasty snack, whether you’re adding them to your morning cereal or baking them in a delicious batch of homemade cinnamon raisin cookies. While humans can enjoy a handful of these delicious dried grapes, are raisins safe for hamsters? While hamsters enjoy eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, can they eat raisins? Are Raisins Safe for Hamsters?

The short and simple answer is yes. Your hamster can eat raisins. But how and how much should you feed her raisins?

Here’s everything you need to know about hamsters and raisins.

A healthy hamster diet

Hamsters are omnivores, which means they enjoy eating fruits, vegetables, nuts, and meat. As a responsible hamster parent, you should feed your pet a balanced, high-quality diet.

The ideal diet for a hamster includes:

hamster pellets

Hamster pellets timothy hay

Timothy Heu Small portions of fresh fruit, herbs and vegetables

Small portions of fresh fruit, herbs and vegetables. The special pleasure

But what about raisins? Can raisins be included in your hamster’s diet? Yes, you can. You can feed your hamster raisins in moderation. That equates to about half a raisin once or twice a week.

Are Raisins Safe for Hamsters?

Yes, raisins are perfectly safe for hamsters. However, that does not mean that you should feed your rodent a large portion of this dried fruit. You should only feed your hamster raisins in moderation.

Benefits of Eating Raisins

Raisins are packed with many health benefits for your hamster. Not only are raisins a great source of vitamins A and B, which can promote a healthy immune system and maintain cellular health, but raisins may also benefit your pet’s kidneys and digestive tract and protect them from certain types of cancer.

raisin risks

Despite the numerous health benefits that come with eating raisins, there are some potential risks associated with feeding raisins to your hamster. Raisins are full of sugar. If fed in large quantities, your hamster can become obese and develop diabetes.

Also, too many raisins can damage your pet’s kidneys. Because of this, it’s important to keep your raisin intake to a minimum.

How to test new hamster treats

When introducing raisins to your hamster for the first time, you should do it slowly to make sure he doesn’t get an upset stomach.

The first thing you need to do is wash the raisins thoroughly to remove dirt, debris, and possible pesticides.

Second, offer your pet a very small piece of raisin. Wait a few days to see if she ate it.

If so, slowly incorporate a piece of raisin into their diet once or twice a week.

What if my hamster doesn’t like raisins?

If your rodent leaves the raisin untouched in its food bowl, be sure to remove it after a few days. She may not have a taste for raisins. If so, no big deal. While raisins can benefit a hamster’s health, there are many other fruits that are just as healthy for them.

Raisin alternatives for hamsters

If you don’t want to feed your hammie raisins, there are some good alternatives:

cherries

cherries figs

Fig papaya

papaya raspberries

raspberry pear

pear melon

melon strawberries

Strawberries honeydew melon

Remember to only serve these fruits to your hamster occasionally.

Can hamsters eat raisins? The final result

Raisins are non-toxic to hamsters and perfectly safe for your pet. Always give your hamster raisins in moderation. Never give her more than two servings of raisins a week to keep the risk of obesity and diabetes at bay.

If your pet turns up their nose at a raisin, try offering them a tasty alternative, such as a raisin, instead. B. a pear or cherry.

Your hammie can certainly take a small portion of raisins with him!

Selected image source: Pixabay

Cheese has been associated with rodents for ages, and cartoons have a lot to do with it. Do rodents really love cheese? Some do, and hamsters are rodents that tend to enjoy a variety of snacks and treats, which often include cheese. But is cheese healthy for hamsters? Cheese may be safe in small amounts, but there are better snacking options for hamsters.

Is Cheese Good for Hamsters?

Cheese may be safe for hamsters in small amounts but is not an essential part of their diet.

Hamsters are omnivores that can enjoy a wide variety of foods. In the wild, hamsters tend to eat seeds, grains, grasses and occasionally insects. Fortunately, complete and balanced commercial diets are available to ensure pet hamsters are getting everything they need. Hamster food usually comes in pellets or mixes and usually contains grains, seeds, vitamins and minerals.

In general, hamsters should eat at least 50% commercial hamster food and up to 50% raw vegetables to stay healthy. Many fresh raw vegetables are good for hamsters, including kale, spinach, dandelions, and broccoli. You can eat small amounts of fruits like apples and bananas. Other healthy treats include pasta, rice, and seeds. Small amounts of unsalted nuts work well. Hamsters don’t need large amounts of fat, sugar or salt in their diet, so foods with these should be avoided. They do not require dairy in their diet, so technically there is no need to ever offer cheese to a hamster.

Many hamsters love the taste of cheese, but its high fat and sodium content is not particularly healthy for hamsters. If your hamster likes cheese and seems to be able to tolerate it well, you can occasionally offer it in small amounts. Hamsters should be fed no more than a pea-sized amount of cheese once or twice a week. Choose a low-fat, low-salt cheese like low-fat cottage cheese or mozzarella. Avoid greasy or salty cheeses like aged cheddar, parmesan, and processed cheese products. Never offer your hamster “mold” cheeses such as Stilton or blue cheese as these can be harmful.

If your hamster loves cheese, it can be a great option for training and oral medication. Just remember to feed it sparingly.

Side effects of feeding hamsters cheese

Cheese is not toxic to hamsters. Too much cheese, however, can lead to health problems.

Some hamsters tolerate cheese and other dairy products well, while others suffer from lactose intolerance. Hamsters may vomit and/or have diarrhea after eating cheese or other dairy products. If you are unsure whether your hamster can tolerate cheese, start with small amounts of cheese and see how your hamster handles it. If no diarrhea or vomiting occurs, gradually work your way up to a pea-sized amount of cheese at a time.

Hamsters can become overweight if fed too much cheese, especially if the cheese is high in fat. Too much salt (from cheese or other salty snacks) can cause dehydration and kidney problems in hamsters.

Don’t give your hamster too much cheese; He may try to put it in his cheek pouches and bring it back to his habitat for storage. It won’t be long before the cheese goes bad. Hamster lovers often enjoy seeing those sweet chubby cheeks completely stuffed, but some foods (like sticky cheese) can get stuck in the cheek pouches.

What to do if your hamster has too much cheese?

Mistakes happen, and you may find that your hamster has eaten more than its fair share of cheese. Overeating cheese once or twice is unlikely to harm a hamster, but it’s always important to watch for signs of illness such as lethargy, vomiting, diarrhea and loss of appetite. Be sure to consult an exotics veterinarian if you are concerned about your hamster’s health.

Hamsters tend to save their food for later, so extra cheese may be in their cheeks or anywhere in their habitat. Check your hamster’s habitat and bedding for hidden cheese stashes and discard them. If you’re in doubt about feeding your hamster cheese, it’s probably best to avoid it altogether and choose a healthier type of treat.

We all know birds like seeds, but can hamsters eat them, especially sunflower seeds? Yes! Hamsters tend to love sunflower seeds and they might even be included in the pellet mix you normally feed them.

For many smaller animals, seeds make great snacks. They are packed with healthy fats and carbohydrates and are often very nutritious. On the human side, seeds are usually relatively cheap to buy and easy to find at any pet store. If you wish, you can even pick them up when you go grocery shopping.

Can hamsters eat sunflower seeds?

Yes, hamsters can eat sunflower seeds. In fact, they’re usually a favorite treat for these fluffy runabouts. Watching them eat seeds is quite a cute spectacle for us as they hold and nibble on them with both paws.

Since hamsters eat sunflower seeds much longer than they should, you must not overfeed them. Robo, dwarf, and Syrian hamsters are particularly fond of sunflower seeds, so watch out!

Types of sunflower seeds

There are all kinds of sunflower seeds. Some of these come from slightly different plants, but most strains have to do with how producers prepare them.

Striped sunflower seeds

These sunflower seeds have stripes running down the middle and down the sides. They are the most common type of seed you can buy. Hamsters will almost always love them and are safe to eat a moderate amount.

Black Oil Sunflower Seeds

These are not as readily available for commercial consumption, but are instead a desirable addition to birdseed. Black oil sunflower seeds have a much higher oil content and are meatier on the inside. Visually, they are completely black and tend to be much thinner than striped sunflower seeds.

Of the two, black oil sunflower seeds are harder to find and will feed your hamster outside of a bird feeder. It’s better for them to eat striped sunflower seeds anyway, since they don’t need the extra calories that black oilseeds have.

Besides these two types of sunflower seeds, there are also different ways in which sunflower seeds can be produced and packaged. They can be shelled or unshelled, and both types are safe for your hamster, although shelled sunflower seeds are arguably better because shelling keeps your hamster occupied and improves jaw and dental health.

When buying sunflower seeds in the store, make sure that they are not salted. Salted sunflower seeds are very popular with humans, but that extra sodium isn’t healthy for hamsters.

Salt from the outside of a sunflower seed is enough to start your hamster suffering from high blood pressure. It can even lead to fatal heart problems and shorten their lifespan.

Nutritional Benefits of Sunflower Seeds for Your Hamster

In the right amount, sunflower seeds are a healthy snack for your hamster. They’re packed with vitamins and nutrients that help improve your hamster’s overall health, including:

As long as the seeds are not salted, the nutrients in the seeds will keep your hamster’s blood and blood pressure relatively healthy. They also contribute to the health of your hamster’s bones and teeth. The vitamin E keeps your hamster’s eyes and skin healthy.

Possible dangers of sunflower seeds for your hamster

Sunflower seeds should be fed to your hamster in moderation to avoid health problems. Too much of a good thing can definitely be bad for your health.

The most significant risk of sunflower seeds or seeds for that matter is the fat content. Sunflower seeds are high in fat that can help your hamster maintain a healthy coat, but too much can cause obesity and diabetes. Both are tough on their health and will ultimately shorten their lifespan.

Sunflower seeds should be like dessert for your hamster. They can become full quickly, which is not conducive to a varied, nutrient-dense diet.

Although taking vitamins is generally a good thing for your pet, too much harms them. Too much vitamin C in particular can put a strain on the digestive system. It can eventually cause diarrhea when ingested in large amounts.

How to feed your hamster sunflower seeds

Your hamster should be given sunflower seeds as a reward after he finishes his other food. If you don’t have your hamster on a feeding schedule, you need to be even more careful about giving him treats.

The smaller the hamster, the fewer sunflower seeds it should get. Large hamsters, like Syrians, can eat about four sunflower seeds a day.

Robo hamsters are smaller, but not the smallest species of hamster commonly sold in pet stores. You should only get about two sunflower seeds each day.

Finally, dwarf hamsters should only be given 1 sunflower seed every other day. You will gain weight much faster with these seeds and should be monitored closely. These little rodents are also much more prone to obesity, which means treats should be used sparingly.

If you like to give your hamsters a treat every now and then, they will definitely appreciate sunflower seeds. By limiting the amount you feed them, you can protect them and still bring the joy of a tasty treat into their lives.

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Pumpkin seeds are a true superfood, packed with protein and other essential nutrients. They are an excellent snack for humans and can also be very useful for hamsters. In general, almost any hamster will enjoy having a few pumpkin seeds in their food, which offers more benefits than meets the eye.

Pumpkin seeds are readily available at most grocery stores, but they are easy to make and prepare at home. If you’re considering adding them to your hamster’s diet, read on to learn more about the benefits and side effects of pumpkin seeds:

Can hamsters eat pumpkin seeds? Can all breeds of hamsters eat them?

Yes, hamsters can eat pumpkin seeds, and there are many reasons why. They are very nutritious and can balance out your hamster’s diet, even adding just a few seeds per day. Pumpkin seeds are a great way to change up your hamster’s typical strain, especially to the larger hamster species. Even the pumpkin fruit is safe to eat, packed with nutrients your hamster will benefit from.

As with anything else, some foods aren’t as safe or healthy for smaller breeds of hamsters. Luckily, all species can eat pumpkin seeds, although dwarf hamsters and other small breeds struggle with the size of the seeds. If you have one of the smaller hamster species, it’s best to start with a smaller pumpkin seed to ensure he can eat it safely without choking.

Are Pumpkin Seeds Healthy for Hamsters?

Yes! In addition to being delicious, pumpkin seeds are highly nutritious and can offer several benefits. They are rich in antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, fiber, calcium and B12. All of these play important roles in your hamster’s health, including immune system, digestive health and even bone health. The seeds also naturally provide omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are essential to your hamster’s overall health.

There are many obvious reasons to give your hamster some pumpkin seeds, but there’s one more reason: they help grind their teeth. Hamsters kept as pets or in captivity will need to have their teeth trimmed to prevent them from becoming uncomfortably long. The pumpkin seed shells are hard enough to abrade teeth while chewing, which in turn helps keep teeth at a comfortable length.

How Many Pumpkin Seeds Are Safe and How Should They Be Prepared?

The number of pumpkin seeds you feed your hamster depends on the breed, especially for dwarf hamster breeds. If you have a smaller breed, just a pumpkin seed or two should be enough. For larger hamsters, 2 or 3 pumpkin seeds will suffice. If your hamster has never had pumpkin seeds before, we recommend starting with half a seed or a full seed. Introducing a new food slowly will help avoid shocking the digestive system and reduce the severity of an allergic reaction.

Both raw and baked pumpkin seeds are safe for hamsters, but baked seeds are preferred due to the hard shell. Baked seeds should be unsalted, as salt can cause dehydration, which is much harder to detect in hamsters early on. Flavored pumpkin seeds should always be avoided, especially those with onion or garlic spices. They can be dangerous and even fatal to hamsters, so stick to plain, unsalted pumpkin seeds instead. If you want to feed raw pumpkin seeds, you can also try feeding a small amount of the pumpkin fruit with it. Pumpkin fruits are also healthy for hamsters but need to be portioned properly to prevent digestive problems.

Are pumpkins related to gourds? Are Pumpkin Seeds Safe?

Pumpkins belong to the Cucurbitaceae family, which is also home to gourds and squashes. Pumpkins are indeed related to pumpkins, but that doesn’t mean they’re necessarily safe to eat. Some pumpkins are safe, some are not, which can be confusing. We highly recommend sticking with Pumpkin to avoid confusion. Pumpkin seeds are also much more readily available than pumpkins and pumpkin seeds, making them the better option of the two.

What shouldn’t be fed to hamsters?

Hamsters can eat a variety of things, from alfalfa hay to insects. They are casual eaters and love to eat, but there are things hamsters shouldn’t eat. Some foods can be downright deadly, so being able to identify safe and toxic foods is important. Here is a list of foods that can be toxic to hamsters:

Toxic Foods For Hamsters:

Before feeding your hamster anything, even commercial hamster pellets, always read the label to make sure it doesn’t contain anything toxic. It is imperative to stay safe when handling seeds, kernels, leaves and stems as they can be quite toxic. Although some seeds are not only safe but also beneficial for your hamster, others can cause toxicity and possibly death.

About hamster diets

Hamsters are famous for their cheek pouches, which they like to use to store food in the wild. They fill their cheek pouches and go back to their burrows, eating or storing their finds. Their diet consists primarily of seeds, fruits, vegetation, and even insects, making them omnivores. Hamsters only eat about 1 to 2 tablespoons a day and keep the rest in a hiding place in case they are unable to eat later.

Your pet hamster needs to have a diet that mirrors their natural diet, which should include seeds, fruits, vegetables, and hamster pellets. Pellets should be purchased by age as pellets are manufactured to ensure your hamster is receiving a complete and balanced diet at its current life stage. Fresh, clean water should also be available at all times, as hamsters are prone to dehydration.

Final Thoughts

Hamsters love to munch and nibble throughout the day, with their meals ranging from small pieces of fruit to insects when the opportunity arises. Pumpkin seeds can help their diet quite a bit, especially for pet hamsters. They are easy to obtain and can be raw or prepared at home, making them an easy and inexpensive addition to your hamster’s meals. If you’re considering feeding your hamster pumpkin seeds, try adding one seed at a time and watch for adverse side effects. You can even feed your hamster the pumpkin fruit, making pumpkin a versatile food for your pet.

Credit for selected images: Pixabay

In the wild, hamsters will eat a wide variety of plants, seeds, fruits and even insects, and it is this variety of food that keeps them healthy and happy. In captivity, owners often make the mistake of only feeding them one type of food, which can result in an unbalanced and unhealthy diet. The most common food fed to hamsters is commercial hamster pellets and these specially manufactured pellets should meet all of their nutritional needs.

In addition to commercial pellets, hamsters also enjoy the occasional treat, and this can include fruits, nuts, and seeds. You may have a pet bird at home and are wondering if you can feed your hamster some of your bird seed as a treat. But can hamsters eat birdseed? Is bird seed safe for hamsters? The answer is yes, as an occasional treat, bird seed is usually fine to give to your hamster. However, there are some caveats to be aware of, and the answer largely depends on the type of bird seed you choose to treat your hamster with.

In this article we take a look at the potential benefits and potential dangers of feeding your hamster birdseed. Let’s start!

Different types of bird seed

First, it’s important to note that there are different types of bird seed commonly used by bird keepers, all of which have varying degrees of quality. There are a variety of ingredients that fall under the term “bird seed” and this is an important consideration before giving it to your hamster.

Most common bird seed mixes contain varying amounts of the following:

Aside from seed mixes, most bird owners also have commercial bird pellets and these can contain a variety of seeds, grains, fruits and vegetables depending on the brand and are often fortified with vitamins and minerals essential to birds. While seed mixes are generally good to feed your hamster, these commercial pellets may contain ingredients that you do not want to feed your hamster, so take extra care when reading the ingredient list.

Potential Benefits of Feeding Birdseed to Hamsters

With the wide variety of seeds found in bird seed, your hamster has many benefits. However, seeds contain a lot of fat and should only be given in moderation. Common seeds in birdseed include sunflower seeds, which are a great source of vitamin C and vitamin A, protein and fiber, and also contain essential minerals including calcium, iron and magnesium. However, the high fat content can lead to excessive weight gain, and vitamin C can cause diarrhea.

Pumpkin seeds are also a great addition to your hamster’s diet as their hard shell gives your hamster a great dental workout. They also contain a lot of useful vitamins and minerals, namely protein and calcium.

Possible risks of feeding hamsters bird seed

The biggest problem with feeding your hamster birdseed is the fat, and sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds, along with most other types of seeds, contain large amounts of fat. Therefore, they should only be administered in moderation. A small handful of mixed seeds every two or three days is suitable, but they should not be part of your hamster’s daily diet. Additionally, bird seed cannot replace your hamster’s regular diet as it does not provide the nutrients it needs to thrive. Hamsters need high-fiber, low-fat food, and birdseed generally contains large amounts of fat from seeds.

Be sure to check the bird seed mixes for other ingredients as well. Some types of bird food contain dried fruit, some of which can be harmful to your hamster due to the large amounts of sugar in excess. These dried fruits may also contain artificial preservatives that are unhealthy for hamsters.

Commercial bird pellets may also contain artificial colors and preservatives that you do not want your hamster to ingest. Commercial bird pellets are specifically designed to feed birds and not rodents, so a hamster would not be getting a balanced diet.

Foods that hamsters should not be given

There are some nuts, seeds and fruits that are potentially toxic to hamsters and are occasionally found in some bird feeds. These include:

Final Thoughts

As an occasional treat, birdseed is perfectly safe for hamsters. However, some brands and varieties of bird food may contain ingredients that are potentially harmful to hamsters, so check the ingredients carefully beforehand. We recommend avoiding commercial pellets and sticking with seed mixes, but even these should not be viewed as a substitute for your hamster’s regular diet.

In summary, a small handful of bird seed is safe and possibly even beneficial for hamsters, but make sure you give them moderation.

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Featured image: guvo59, Pixabay

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“An apple a day keeps the doctor at bay” We’ve all heard that age-old saying about apples, but this saying applies to humans.

What about hamsters? Can an apple a day keep the vet away from your hamsters?

Or is it advisable to keep your hamster away from apples?

Read along to find out how we answer everything related to feeding apples to hamsters.

Get Your Own Hamster Owner’s Guide!

Can hamsters eat apples?

The short answer is yes. Hamsters can eat apples provided you follow a few basic rules for feeding apples to your hamster. In fact, if your hamster likes the sweet apple flavor, it can become one of the best treats for hamsters.

However, as we will discuss further, it is important not to accustom them to the sweet taste.

The best apple to feed your hamster is the seedless apple. If you peel an apple, make sure there are no pits in it, as both Syrian and dwarf hamsters can choke on the pits – even more so for the little Roborovski hamster.

Like many other fruits, apples also contain many beneficial vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K and calcium, making them ideal for vitamin refueling after a round on the hamster wheel.

A serving of just a quarter teaspoon is enough for your hamster and feeding your hamster this amount of apple once or twice a week is just perfect.

READ MORE: Do hamsters like cheese?

Can dwarf hamsters eat apples?

Yes, you can. Don’t let the smaller size of dwarf hamsters fool you; Because of their high metabolism, they can eat anything their larger Syrian cousins ​​can eat.

However, since dwarf hamsters are more susceptible to diabetes and apples are high in sugar, keeping them to a minimum is strongly advised.

Can hamsters eat apples with their skin on?

Yes, skins shouldn’t be a cause for concern when feeding apples to your hamsters. seeds should be. Be sure to remove the pits from the fruit before giving it to your hamster.

Also wash the apple thoroughly before feeding it to your hamster. This ensures that no pesticides enter your digestive system via the fruit.

See Also: Can Hamsters Eat Tomatoes?

4 benefits of eating apples for hamsters

It’s a good idea to supplement your hamster’s diet with apple as it has the following health benefits:

#1 Lowers bad cholesterol

Apples contain soluble fiber, which helps prevent cholesterol from building up in the lining of blood vessel walls. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease.

Several studies have shown that apples lower LDL (bad) cholesterol as well as triglyceride levels.

#2 Lowers the risk of diabetes

If you didn’t know, your hamster could have diabetes, which is more common in dwarf hamsters. It is therefore recommended to feed them foods that can lower their risk of diabetes. One such fruit is the apple. Due to the antioxidants they contain, apples protect the body from harmful chemical reactions.

Also, the soluble fiber in apples can slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream and improve blood sugar levels. This can further reduce the chances of your hamster developing diabetes.

#3 Improves gut health

It’s no secret that fiber aids digestion. The soluble fiber helps slow digestion, leaving you feeling full, and the insoluble fiber helps move food through your digestive system and relieve constipation.

Since apples contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, it is an excellent fruit to include in your hamster’s diet. Make sure you feed them the apple peel as well, as it contains much of the insoluble fiber.

#4 Supports a healthy immune system

Your hamster needs a more robust immune system to fight off disease. The vitamin C contained in apples helps with this. Vitamin C strengthens the epithelial barrier against pathogens and also protects against environmental stresses such as pollution. Plus, the vitamin C will give your hamster glowing, healthy skin.

Risks that make apples bad for hamsters

Despite all the health benefits, apples come with risks, so care should be taken when feeding them to hamsters. Some of the significant risks you should be aware of before deciding to stock them with apples are:

High sugar content

Like many other fruits, apples have a high natural sugar content. This increases the risk of diabetes and as you already know, your hamster is susceptible to diabetes.

For this reason, apples should not be part of your hamster’s staple diet; it is better off being an adjunct. Therefore, a small teaspoonful of apples every two weeks is more than enough for hamsters.

Poisonous Apple Seeds

Apple seeds contain a chemical compound called amygdalin. Amygdalin can release cyanide, a potent toxin, when in contact with digestive enzymes.

Although humans need to eat at least 16 apples to have such a toxic effect on them, hamsters, which are smaller, don’t need to eat as many apples.

Therefore, avoid giving your hamster seeds while you are feeding them apples. Apple seeds and chocolate are two of the most toxic foods to keep away from your hamster.

READ MORE: Can hamsters eat strawberries?

What other treats can I give my hamster?

Hamsters thrive on a varied diet. Fruits and vegetables are good, healthy choices with some exceptions that add antioxidants and healthy fats to a diet. Also, foods like meat and cheese can be important sources of protein…

… and watching your hamster eat his treats is sure to make you feel warm and even proud!

If you’re ever unsure about feeding your hamster a certain food, just don’t. Call your vet if your hamster has eaten something you are unsure about.

To answer the most common items given as treats (and some items that won’t give you a hammy), we’ve put together a hamster infographic that you can download below. ADD_THIS_TEXT

3 step system for testing new hamster treats

When I introduce new treats to my hamster Mr. Bubbles there is a 3 step system I use every time to make sure it’s good for his small stomach.

Make sure it’s fresh, laundered, and free of pesticides (i.e. buy organic treats). Test if your hamster can eat the treat. This is done by giving a small test piece and waiting a few days to watch for symptoms. Introduce the treat into your hamster’s diet at regular intervals over the coming weeks

Best hamster food

For your information, this section contains affiliate links. We earn a commission when you make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Aside from giving your hamster treats, it is very important to give them the right type of hamster food.

There are many foods with one of the following properties:

Not enough protein in there

Gets dusty

Your hamster just doesn’t like it and leaves a lot of food

For this reason we have researched and recommend the following three products, which are none of the above and instead form the backbone of good hamster nutrition.

More feeding tips for your hamster

Provide fresh water daily. The water bottle should be checked regularly for dirt or leaks to avoid contaminating the water. It’s also good to monitor your hamster’s water intake, as a decrease in water intake may mean a trip to the vet.

Remove all leftover food to prevent rot – this is especially true of fresh fruit, vegetables and powdered foods which are prone to mold/bacterial growth.

Don’t overfeed on vegetables to avoid diarrhea. Overfeeding sugary fruits and treats is also discouraged as it will lead to obesity in your pet.

When introducing a new type of food to your hamster, you should give a small amount first and observe for a week for negative reactions to the food. If there is no negative reaction, the food is safe for your hamster. A sudden change in your pet’s diet can cause stress.

frequently asked Questions

How many apples can I give my hamster? Considering their high sugar content, just a tiny teaspoon of apple every two weeks is more than enough for your hamster. Can apple kill hamsters? Yes, it can, but it requires feeding lots of apples with intact seeds. However, to reduce the chance of poisoning, it is recommended that you remove the seeds before feeding the apple to your hamster. Can hamsters eat apples? Yes, it’s okay for hamsters to eat apples, but only in small amounts and occasionally. What fruits can hamsters eat? Although vegetables are a much healthier option for your hamster, they can also be fed fruit in smaller amounts. Some of the fruits they can eat are; Apples, strawberries, bananas and watermelons. Can apples make my hamster sick? When you introduce your hamster to a new food, there is a potential risk that it will upset its stomach. Apples are no different in this case. That’s why it’s important to gradually introduce new foods into the diet, even in tiny portions.

Conclusion

Apples can make an excellent treat for your hamster, but it’s important that you only keep them as an occasional treat. Making apples a part of your hamster’s staple diet will do more harm than good. Also, be sure to remove any seeds before feeding your hamster apples. When done in moderation and with the right precautions, your hamster can be safe to enjoy this delicious sweet treat.

resources

Barrie, Leslie. 2020. “7 Outstanding Health Benefits of Apples.” Everyday Health.com. October 2, 2020. https://www.everydayhealth.com/diet-nutrition/impressive-health-benefits-of-apples/.

“Hamster care sheet & guide | PetSmart.” 2021a. Petsmart.com. 2021. https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/small-pet-care/hamster-care-guide/A0092.html.

“Hamster care sheet & guide | PetSmart.” 2021b. Petsmart.com. 2021. https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/small-pet-care/hamster-care-guide/A0092.html.

Koutsos, Athanasios, Samantha Riccadonna, Maria M Ulaszewska, Pietro Franceschi, Kajetan Trošt, Amanda Galvin, Tanya Braune, et al. 2019. “Two apples per day lower serum cholesterol and improve cardiometabolic biomarkers in mildly hypercholesterolemic adults: A randomized, controlled, crossover study.” The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 111(2): 307–18. https://doi.org/10.1093/ajcn/nqz282.

PetMD Editorial. 2016. “What can hamsters eat? Carrots, Grapes, Tomatoes and More.” Petmd.com. PetMD. March 2016. https://www.petmd.com/exotic/nutrition/evr_ex_hm_what-can-hamsters-eat.

Can hamsters eat apples? Have you tried giving it to your pets? Please let us know below!