Have you recently adopted a hamster? Congratulations! These tiny furballs make fun and adorable pets. Just like any other animal, hamsters need proper nutrition in order to stay healthy. While there are many things that hamsters can eat, there are also plenty of foods that are dangerous for them. Read on to learn about hamster nutrition in this article from a Lawrenceville, GA veterinarian.
Main Meals
Hammie can have commercial food for his main meals. Most pet stores sell both pellet foods and seed mixes. Both have their own pros and cons. Pellet foods are nutritionally complete, but might be a bit bland. Seed mixes may taste better, but they make it very easy for your tiny furball to stash his favorite bits for later and then beg for more. This is how many hamsters get chubby!
Produce
Hamsters can enjoy many different types of fruits and veggies. Some of the things your tiny furball can eat include asparagus, bean sprouts, carrots, cucumbers, peas, spinach, cabbage, and celery. Zucchini, kale, and corn are also acceptable. Hammie can also have broccoli and cauliflower, but don’t give him too much, as he might get gas. As for fruits, your little pal can enjoy apples (not the seeds), blueberries, strawberries, melons, papaya, and seedless grapes. Just don’t give your furry buddy too much fruit, as it’s very high in sugar.
Treats
Hamsters love treats! Some suitable treats include grasshoppers, mealworms, and crickets. Never give your pet wild bugs, as they can harbor bacteria or parasites. Head to the pet store to buy your pet’s insects instead. Not all of Hammie’s favorite snacks are creepy-crawly. Your tiny furball can also have cooked eggs; unseasoned, cooked beef, pork, or chicken; cheese; and dog biscuits. Plain popcorn, whole-wheat bread or pasta; brown rice; and dry cat food are also fine on occasion. Certain seeds and nuts, such as unsalted peanuts and pumpkin seeds, are also suitable.
Dangerous Foods
Always research new foods before giving them to your pet. Many foods are dangerous to little Hammie. Chocolate, candy, onion, peanut butter, garlic, apple seeds, junk food, almonds, and raw beans and potatoes are all toxic to these little furballs. You’ll also want to avoid giving your hamster citrus fruit, as it can be very acidic.
Please contact us, your Lawrenceville, GA vet clinic, for more information on feeding your hamster. We are here to help!
