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You are here: Home / Diet / What do Hamsters Eat?

What do Hamsters Eat?

Hamsters are popular pets, and for good reason – they are adorable and fun to watch. But like all animals, hamsters need proper nutrition in order to stay healthy. In this guide, we will discuss the best foods to feed your hamster, as well as some of the nutritional needs that they have. We will also cover some common myths about hamster nutrition, so that you can be sure that you are providing your pet with the best possible diet.

Hamsters are omnivores, which means they eat both vegetables and meat. Their natural foods include grains, seeds, vegetables, and insects and they will also eat corn, oats, or wheat mixed with dry dog food.

A good way to think of it is that hamsters need a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. However, the specific nutritional needs of hamsters vary depending on the species. For example, Syrian hamsters (the most common type of pet hamster) have different nutritional needs than dwarf hamsters.

When it comes to feeding your hamster, it is important to remember that every animal is different and has unique nutritional needs. This guide should be used as a starting point, but you should always consult with your veterinarian to ensure that you are providing your pet with the best possible diet.

Hamster Diet

Hamsters favourite foods are foods native to their dry habitat, like seeds. For protein and variety, they will eat some small insects.  Hamsters like a variety in their food and it also helps to keep them healthy.

One common myth about hamster nutrition is that hamsters only need to eat seeds and pellets. While these are certainly a part of a healthy diet for hamsters, they should not be the only things that your pet eats.

A good diet for a hamster should also include fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as some high-quality hay.

What Do Hamsters Eat?

Hamsters like vegetables, however, feed them fresh food in moderation.

One important nutrient that all hamsters need is fiber. Fiber helps to keep the digestive system healthy and prevents constipation. The best sources of fiber for hamsters are fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as hay. 

Another important nutrient for hamsters is protein. Protein is necessary for the growth and repair of tissues, as well as for the production of enzymes and hormones. Good sources of protein for hamsters include dry dog food and insects.

You should avoid giving your hamster too much protein.

Finally, hamsters need a source of essential fatty acids. These are necessary for the proper development and function of the nervous system, as well as for maintaining healthy skin and fur. Good sources of essential fatty acids for hamsters include seeds and nuts.

Premixed hamster food from a pet store has complete nutrition, however, some hamsters will not eat it.

Hamsters need to have fresh water constantly available. The best sort of container is a sipper/drip bottle, which can be attached to the side of the cage. A bottle with a wide neck and metal top will be easy to clean every other day. The hamster will quickly learn how to sip from it.

Both Syrian and dwarf hamsters should be fed timothy hay for the health of their teeth rather than for its nutritional value.

What Can’t Hamsters Eat?

Do not feed your hamster chocolates or sweets, this is very bad for them. Feed your hamster at the same time each day or leave a constant food supply. Hamsters will not overeat but will often store food in their cheek pouches and put it in a hiding place to eat later. Remove food that is no longer fresh each day and clean out the ‘hidden’ food once a week. Put food in heavy ceramic or plastic food dishes (so they will not tip over) and clean them weekly.

You should avoid giving your hamster processed foods, as these can be low in fiber and high in sugar.

Hamsters should not eat too much fruit as it is high in sugar.

Do not feed your hamster caffeine or alcohol.

About Joanne Spencer

I've always been passionate about animals which led me to a career in training and behaviour. As an animal professional I'm committed to improving relationships between people and animals to bring them more happiness.

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