Your pet hamster provides you so much delight, and you may repay the favor by providing healthy hamster food. What should you give your pet hamster? What kinds of healthy foods will help your pet’s general well-being? What goodies can add a little magic to your hamster’s life?
The right kinds of food for hamsters
Pellets
Pelletized hamster food provides comprehensive nutrition without the worry of leaving something out. Hamsters enjoy chewing on them, and the pellets do not spoil as quickly as vegetables or fruits.
The biggest advantage of pelleted foods is that hamsters can’t sift through them to find their preferred small pieces. While you may put together a balanced diet from various nuts, vegetables, and fruits, your hamster will most likely only eat its favorites.
Pellets are homogeneous in appearance and resemble small cookies or biscuits. Feed nothing that you are unsure about.
Seed mixes
Seed combinations are more fascinating for your hamster, but they are also riskier. Some seed mixtures incorporate pellets or dried fruits in addition to the various seeds. Hamsters will sort through to discover their favorites and discard the others.
Feeding seed mixes provides balanced nourishment, but make sure your hamster completely empties the food bowl before adding more mix. If you have more than one hamster, you may choose to supplement with just pellets on a regular basis.
Because just seeds will not give adequate nutrients for your hamster, it is advisable to combine them. You should pay great attention to this because you don’t want to leave your hamster’s bowl empty, but replenishing may allow your hamster to consume only particular foods.
Fresh foods
Fresh foods thrill hamsters the most, and they frequently make excellent treats to complement your hamster’s diet as well as enrichment. There are several safe fruits and vegetables you may feed your hamster, including:
- Most greens – Greens provide critical nourishment and fiber to your hamster while also helping to relieve chewing demands. They are minimal in calories while providing essential nutrients and water.
- Fruits – Bananas, apples, strawberries, and blueberries are all tasty treats for your hamster. They are nutritious and low in calories, but don’t overfeed them to your hamster or it may refuse to eat the regular diet.
- Vegetables – Peas, sweet potatoes, and squash can all be healthful snacks for your hamster. Make sure to thoroughly clean the bowls to avoid accidently leaving damaged food.
- Whole grains – Whole grain toast or bread can give fiber and can be a nice treat when you don’t have access to fresh vegetables or fruits.
- Mealworms, eggs, and other proteins – Make sure you buy mealworms from reputable sources or give your hamster some protein. They’re fantastic as a one-time treat.
Foods you should avoid
There are some foods you should avoid feeding your hamsters. Some are hazardous, while others may cause intestinal problems. The most important thing to remember is to avoid using any spices, salts, or harsh meals.
- Sugary foods – Sugar is unhealthy for your hamsters and may harm their health. These should be avoided at all costs.
- Citrus – Citrus fruits irritate your hamster’s digestive system. Instead, opt for tiny berries or bananas.
- Chocolate – Chocolate, like sugary foods, is harmful.
- Other foods – Rhubarb and raw rhubarb, apple seeds, garlic, onions, almonds, or raw beans are all no-nos.
If you are unsure whether you can feed something to your hamster, do some research beforehand. Hamster digestive systems differ from those of people and even other pets; there is nothing to choose out, so your hamster always gets a whole meal.
Getting portions right
Pellets should constitute the majority of your hamster’s diet. They’re simple to use, and you know your hamsters are always getting a balanced feed. If you wish to utilize a seed mix, having pellets in the mix is beneficial.
The seed mixes should include a variety of seeds, and vegetables can be added on occasion. To provide a complete meal, make sure the hamster finishes the bowl. The inclusion of veggies and fruits might be a terrific alternative, but make sure the container is completely cleaned.
Fruits should be provided sparingly so that your hamster can continue to eat pellets or seeds. If you use chicken, make sure it’s properly cooked and leave the seasoning off.
Give your hamster the appropriate foods
The recommendations above are simple to implement, and supplying your hamster with a range of diets and treats will aid in bonding and mental enrichment. Those pellets are foolproof, but hamsters, like us, may require something more thrilling every now and then.
Consider your hamster’s health and well-being to ensure that you can enjoy your hamster’s company for as long as feasible. A happy hamster is the result of an occasional treat and the correct nutrition.
If you want more helpful advice on looking after your hamster, including tips on food, toys, accessories and accommodation, add a comment below to let us know!
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