Have you been wondering what food to feed your pet hamster? If you’ve asked any of these questions, then this food list is for you!
- What can hamsters eat?
- What can my hamster eat?
- What food can I feed my hamster?
- What vegetables can hamsters eat?
- What fruits can hamsters eat?
- What human food can hamsters eat?
- What nuts can hamsters eat?
We have prepared a quick, no-beating-about-the-bush compilation of what you can feed your hamster. This list covers foods in the following categories: meats, seafood, fruits, vegetables, dairy and eggs, grains, nuts, seeds, herbs, spices and condiments, sweets and snacks, insects, worms, and weird and nontraditional foods the average curious hamster owner wants to feed to their pet. Let us know if we’ve missed anything.
Remember, Hamsters have their unique nutritional requirements and feeding habits distinct from those of other pets. Understanding these needs is crucial for maintaining their health and well-being. Here’s a quick overview:
Nutritional Requirements:
- Balanced Diet: Hamsters are omnivores, requiring a mix of grains, vegetables, and protein. A high-quality commercial hamster mix typically provides a balanced base diet consisting of seeds, grains, cracked corn, and pellets.
- Protein: Animal protein is an important part of a hamster’s diet. Small amounts of boiled eggs, mealworms, or crickets can supplement their protein intake.
- Fruits and Vegetables: Fresh fruits and vegetables can provide essential vitamins and minerals. However, these should be given in moderation due to their high sugar and water content, which can cause diarrhea if overconsumed.
- Fiber: Adequate fiber is crucial for digestive health. The fiber in their pellet mix and small amounts of hay can help maintain a healthy digestive system.
- Vitamins and Minerals: Hamsters need various vitamins and minerals, especially Vitamin C, as some species cannot produce them themselves. Ensure their diet includes vitamin C-rich foods or supplements as a vet recommends.
- Water: Fresh, clean water must always be available, typically provided in a drip-feed bottle to keep it clean.
Feeding Habits:
- Regular Feeding Schedule: Feeding hamsters simultaneously each day helps maintain a routine. They typically require feeding once or twice a day.
- Moderation is Key: Overfeeding, especially with high-fat seeds or sugary fruits, can lead to obesity and health issues. Portion control is important.
- Food Storage: Hamsters have cheek pouches for storing food. They often hide food around their cage for later consumption. Regular cage cleaning is necessary to remove old or hidden food and prevent spoilage and bacterial growth.
- Chew Toys: Hamsters need to gnaw to keep their constantly growing teeth at a manageable length. Providing chew sticks or untreated wood toys can help meet this need.
Other Considerations:
- Age and Health: Nutritional needs can vary with age and health. For example, pregnant or nursing hamsters and young pups have higher protein requirements.
- Diet Variety: While a commercial hamster mix can provide a balanced diet, adding variety through safe fruits, vegetables, and occasional treats can prevent boredom and promote nutritional balance.
- Avoid Toxic Foods: Certain foods, including onions, garlic, chocolate, and any sugary or processed human foods, are toxic to hamsters.
You can use the CTRL+F button or your browser’s “Search” function to find the food item you are contemplating feeding your hamster.
Can Hamsters Eat Grapes
Yes, hamsters can eat grapes in moderation, but they should be given sparingly due to their high sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Strawberries
Yes, hamsters can enjoy strawberries as an occasional treat, ensuring they are fresh and properly washed.
Can Hamsters Eat Bananas
Yes, bananas are safe for hamsters, but only in small amounts due to their sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Blueberries
Yes, hamsters can eat blueberries; they are a nutritious snack when fed in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Carrots
Yes, carrots are good for hamsters and provide essential nutrients.
Can Hamsters Eat Cheese
Yes, but cheese should be offered sparingly to hamsters due to its high-fat content.
Can Hamsters Eat Salami
No, hamsters should not eat salami as it is high in fat and salt.
Can Hamsters Eat Tomatoes
Yes, but only ripe tomatoes and in very small amounts to avoid stomach upset.
Can Hamsters Eat Apples
Yes, apples are safe for hamsters, but remove the seeds as they can be toxic.
Can Hamsters Eat Celery
Yes, but it should be cut into small pieces to prevent choking.
Can Hamsters Eat Cucumber
Yes, cucumbers are safe and hydrating for hamsters, making them a great treat.
Can Hamsters Eat Lettuce
Yes, but choose dark leafy varieties like romaine instead of iceberg, which has little nutritional value.
Can Hamsters Eat Watermelon
Yes, in small quantities, as its high water content can cause diarrhea.
Can Hamsters Eat Broccoli
Yes, hamsters can eat broccoli, but it should be given in moderation to avoid gas.
Can Hamsters Eat Bread
Yes, but only plain, whole-grain bread in very small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Oranges
No, oranges are too acidic for hamsters and can cause health issues.
Can Hamsters Eat Peanut Butter
Yes, but only in tiny amounts due to its stickiness and high-fat content.
Can Hamsters Eat Spinach
Yes, spinach is nutritious, but it should be offered in moderation due to oxalates, which can affect calcium absorption.
Can Hamsters Eat Almonds
No, almonds, especially bitter almonds, can be toxic to hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Lettuce Leaves,
Yes, in moderation, particularly dark leafy greens like romaine or red leaf lettuce.
Can Hamsters Eat Raspberries
Yes, raspberries can be a healthy treat in moderation due to their antioxidants.
Can Hamsters Eat Apple
Yes, but ensure it is seedless and in small quantities to prevent diabetes.
Can Hamsters Eat Bell Peppers
Yes, bell peppers are safe and can provide vitamin C, but avoid the seeds and stem.
Can Hamsters Eat Blackberries
Yes, blackberries are safe for hamsters when given in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Cabbage
Yes, but only in very small amounts to prevent gas and diarrhea.
Can Hamsters Eat Cherries
Yes, without pits and stems, and in moderation, as cherries are safe for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Chocolate
No, chocolate is toxic to hamsters and should be strictly avoided.
Can Hamsters Eat Meat
Yes, but only lean meats like chicken, and it should be cooked and unsalted.
Can Hamsters Eat Peanuts
Yes, but unsalted peanuts should be given sparingly due to high fat.
Can Hamsters Eat Popcorn
Yes, but only plain, air-popped popcorn and in small quantities.
Can Hamsters Eat Chicken
Yes, cooked and unseasoned chicken can be a protein source for hamsters in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Eggs
Yes, hard-boiled or scrambled eggs are a good protein source, served in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Mango
Yes, mango is safe in small pieces and sparingly due to its high sugar level.
Can Hamsters Eat Pineapple
Yes, but only in very small amounts and occasionally, as its acidity can cause issues.
Can Hamsters Eat Raisins
Yes, but only one or two at a time due to high sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Spaghetti
Yes, but only plain, cooked spaghetti and as a rare treat.
Can Hamsters Eat Walnuts
Yes, walnuts can be offered sparingly as a treat due to their high-fat content.
Can Hamsters Eat Avocado
No, avocado is not recommended for hamsters due to its high-fat content and potential toxicity.
Can Hamsters Eat Broccoli Raw
Yes, hamsters can eat raw broccoli in small amounts to prevent gas.
Can Hamsters Eat Cantaloupe
Yes, cantaloupe is safe for hamsters when given in small, manageable pieces.
Can Hamsters Eat Cilantro
Yes, cilantro can be a flavorful addition to a hamster’s diet in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Green Beans
Yes, green beans are safe and nutritious for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Kale
Yes, but only in small quantities to avoid digestive issues.
Can Hamsters Eat Peaches
Yes, but ensure they are ripe and remove the pit before feeding.
Can Hamsters Eat Asparagus
Yes, in moderation, as it’s a healthy vegetable option for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Corn
Yes, but only in small amounts and preferably fresh rather than canned.
Can Hamsters Eat Crackers
Yes, but only plain, unsalted crackers and very sparingly.
Can Hamsters Eat Guinea Pig Food
No, hamster dietary needs differ from guinea pigs, so their food may not be suitable.
Can Hamsters Eat Pistachios
Yes, but only unsalted and in moderation due to high-fat content.
Can Hamsters Eat Pumpkin Seeds
Yes, but ensure they are clean and unsalted.
Can Hamsters Eat Rice
Yes, but only plain, cooked rice and in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Sunflower Seeds
Yes, they are a favorite treat but should be given in moderation due to high fat.
Can Hamsters Eat Zucchini
Yes, zucchini is safe and can be a hydrating vegetable for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Banana
Yes, bananas are safe in small amounts due to their high sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Brussel Sprouts
Yes, but only in moderation to prevent gas.
Can Hamsters Eat Cashews
Yes, unsalted cashews are fine in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Cauliflower
Yes, in moderate,on to avoid causing gas.
Can Hamsters Eat Kiwi
Yes, but only a tiny amount due to high sugar and acid.
Can Hamsters Eat Mealworms
Yes, they are a good protein source, but they should be given sparingly.
Can Hamsters Eat Mushrooms
No, some mushrooms can be toxic, so it’s best to avoid them.
Can Hamsters Eat Parsley
Yes, it’s safe and can add variety to their diet.
Can Hamsters Eat Pears
Yes, in small amounts and without the seeds.
Can Hamsters Eat Pecans
Yes, but sparingly due to high fat.
Can Hamsters Eat Peppers
Yes, bell peppers are safe in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Potatoes
No, raw potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic.
Can Hamsters Eat Pumpkin
Yes, but in moderation and ensure it’s plain.
Can Hamsters Eat Rabbit Food
No, rabbit food doesn’t meet hamsters’ nutritional needs.
Can Hamsters Eat Radish
Yes, in small quantities as a treat.
Can Hamsters Eat Radishes
Yes, they can eat radishes sparingly due to their spicy nature.
Can Hamsters Eat Bell Pepper
Yes, bell peppers are safe and nutritious.
Can Hamsters Eat Cheerios
Yes, but only plain Cheerios and very sparingly.
Can Hamsters Eat Dandelions
Yes, they’re safe and nutritious.
Can Hamsters Eat French Fries
No, they are too fatty and salty.
Can Hamsters Eat Grass
Yes, but ensure it’s not treated with pesticides.
Can Hamsters Eat Hay
Yes, timothy hay is beneficial for their digestion.
Can Hamsters Eat Human Food
It depends on the food; some are safe in moderation, while others should be avoided.
Can Hamsters Eat Nuts
Yes, but only unsalted nuts and in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Oats
Yes, plain oats are a good source of fiber.
Can Hamsters Eat Pasta
Yes, but only plain, cooked pasta and occasionally.
Can Hamsters Eat Romaine Lettuce
Yes, it’s a preferred lettuce due to its nutritional value.
Can Hamsters Eat Sweet Potato
Yes, in small amounts and cooked without any additives.
Can Hamsters Eat Timothy Hay
Yes, it’s good for their diet and dental health.
Can Hamsters Eat Veg
Yes, many vegetables are safe and healthy for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Cherrys
Yes, but remove the pits and offer in moderation due to sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Cranberries
Yes, cranberries are safe in moderation and unsweetened.
Can Hamsters Eat Green Peppers
Yes, green bell peppers are nutritious and safe for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Ham
No, processed meats are unhealthy for hamsters due to high salt and fat.
Can Hamsters Eat Honey
Yes, but very sparingly because of its high sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Iceberg Lettuce
No, it’s not toxic, but it offers little nutritional value and can cause diarrhea.
Can Hamsters Eat Peas
Yes, peas are nutritious and safe for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Pomegranate
Yes, in very small amounts, as it’s high in sugar.
Can Hamsters Eat Raw Broccoli
Yes, but in moderation to avoid gas.
Can Hamsters Eat Shrimp
No, it’s best to avoid seafood for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Squash
Yes, squash is safe and healthy for hamsters in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Arugula
Yes, arugula can be included in their diet in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Basil
Yes, basil is safe and can add variety to their diet.
Can Hamsters Eat Bird Food
No, bird food does not meet the nutritional needs of hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Cherry Tomatoes
Yes, but only in small amounts, and ensure they are ripe; avoid the leaves and stem
Can Hamsters Eat Coconut
Yes, in small amounts, as it’s high in fat.
Can Hamsters Eat Crickets
Yes, crickets can be a protein source, but only occasionally.
Can Hamsters Eat Grape
Yes, grapes are safe but should be given sparingly.
Can Hamsters Eat Green Bell Peppers
Yes, green bell peppers are nutritious and safe for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Melon
Yes, melon is safe in moderation, but remove any seeds first.
Can Hamsters Eat Onions
No, onions are toxic to hamsters and can cause blood problems.
Can Hamsters Eat Pecan Nuts
Yes, but only unsalted and in moderation due to high fat.
Can Hamsters Eat Pickles
No, pickles are too acidic and salty for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Pretzels
No, pretzels are too salty and not suitable for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Red Peppers
Yes, red bell peppers are safe and provide vitamin C.
Can Hamsters Eat Turkey
Yes, but only cooked, unseasoned turkey in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Acorns
No, acorns can be toxic and pose a choking hazard.
Can Hamsters Eat Almond
No, almonds, especially bitter almonds, can be toxic.
Can Hamsters Eat Bacon
No, bacon is too fatty and salty for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Boiled Eggs
Yes, boiled eggs are a good protein source in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Chickpeas
Yes, but only cooked and unsalted chickpeas in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Dog Food
No, dog food does not meet the nutritional requirements of hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Fries
No, fries are too greasy and salty for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Goldfish
Yes, but it’s best to avoid feeding another pet to your hamster.
Can Hamsters Eat Grapes with Skin
Yes, but ensure they are cut into small pieces to prevent choking.
Can Hamsters Eat Green Grapes
Yes, green grapes are safe in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Kiwi Fruit
Yes, but only in very small amounts due to high sugar.
Can Hamsters Eat Mangoes
Yes, mangoes are safe in small, manageable pieces.
Can Hamsters Eat Nectarines
Yes, but without the pit and in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Plums
Yes, without the pits and in moderation.
Can Hamsters Eat Potato
No, raw potatoes contain solanine, which is toxic.
Can Hamsters Eat Rat Food
No, rat food may not meet the nutritional needs of hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Snap Peas
Yes, snap peas are safe and can be a healthy snack.
Can Hamsters Eat Yogurt
Yes, but only plain, unsweetened yogurt and in very small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Apple Skin
Yes, apple skin is safe as long as the apple is organic and washed.
Ensure the apple is free of pesticides and offered in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Bird Seed
Yes, but it should not replace their specialized diet; offer only as a treat.
Can Hamsters Eat Cashew Nuts
Yes, but only unsalted and in moderation due to their high-fat content.
Can Hamsters Eat Cheez Its
No, Cheez Its are too salty and processed for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Chicken Nuggets
No, chicken nuggets are too greasy and not suitable for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Dried Cranberries
Yes, but only in very small quantities because of the sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Fish
No, fish is not a natural part of a hamster’s diet and should be avoided.
Can Hamsters Eat Green Apples
Yes, but in moderation and ensure they are cut into small pieces.
Can Hamsters Eat Green Peas
Yes, green peas are safe and can be a nutritious addition to their diet.
Can Hamsters Eat Hard Boiled Eggs
Yes, hard-boiled eggs are a good protein source, but only in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Marshmallows
No, marshmallows are too sugary and not healthy for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Mouse Food
No, mouse food might not meet the specific nutritional needs of hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Noodles
Yes, but only plain, cooked noodles and in very small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Pancakes
No, pancakes are too sugary and may contain ingredients that are harmful to hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat People Food
It depends on the food; some human foods are safe in moderation, while others should be avoided.
Can Hamsters Eat Rose Petals
Yes, rose petals are safe as long as they’re free from pesticides and chemicals.
Can Hamsters Eat Sugar Snap Peas
Yes, in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Can Hamsters Eat Cardboard
Yes, hamsters can chew on plain, untreated cardboard as it helps with their teeth, but they shouldn’t “eat” it.
Can Hamsters Eat Cat Food
No, cat food is formulated for carnivores and doesn’t meet the dietary needs of omnivorous hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Cheddar Cheese
Yes, but only in very small amounts due to its high fat content.
Can Hamsters Eat Chia Seeds
Yes, chia seeds can be a nutritious addition in tiny amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Clover
Yes, clover is safe and can be part of their foraging.
Can Hamsters Eat Flowers
Yes, but it depends on what type of flowers. It’s important to ensure the flowers are safe and non-toxic to hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Honey Nut Cheerios
Yes, but sparingly due to the sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Honeydew Melon
Yes, but ensure it’s in small pieces and offered occasionally as a treat due to its sugar content.
Can Hamsters Eat Ice Cream
No, ice cream is too cold and sugary for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Jicama
Yes, jicama is safe for hamsters in small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Onion
No, onions are toxic to hamsters and can cause blood issues.
Can Hamsters Eat Orange Peels
No, orange peels might contain pesticides and are too tough for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Papaya
Yes, papaya can be offered in small, manageable pieces.
Can Hamsters Eat Pear
Yes, pears are safe in moderation, without the seeds.
Can Hamsters Eat Raw Pumpkin
Yes, but in small amounts and ensure it’s fresh.
Can Hamsters Eat Raw Pumpkin Seeds
Yes, but clean and unsalted.
Can Hamsters Eat Red Cabbage
Yes, in small amounts as part of a varied diet.
Can Hamsters Eat Ritz Crackers
No, they are too salty and not suitable for hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Salt
No, excessive salt is harmful to hamsters.
Can Hamsters Eat Steak
No, it’s not advisable due to high fat and the risk of seasoning toxicity.
Can Hamsters Eat Tortillas
Yes, but only plain and unseasoned, in very small amounts.
Can Hamsters Eat Watermelon Rind
Yes, but in very small amounts to prevent digestive issues.
