What to feed hamsters?

And first, let’s talk about who they are, our cute hamsters, and what they eat in nature. It’s hard to believe, but once these fluffy lumps were wild, walked around the steppes and ate everything edible that they came across. The basis of the diet of hamsters has always been cereals, but this was not limited to this. These seemingly harmless animals mercilessly ate those who are smaller and weaker than them, and did not even disdain carrion! These are our versatile cuties!

Summarizing the above, we see that hamster diet to a greater extent are cereals: millet, seeds, rye, oats, etc., and even nuts! But the instincts of predators are designed to satisfy chicken or other lean meat, boiled eggs, light cottage cheese – however, do not forget that the basis of nutrition for rodents is still grain, and it is better to feed hamsters animal food no more than twice a week.

Do not forget about water, because it is the main source of life for all living things, including hamsters 🙂 Since cereals are practically devoid of moisture, you must make sure that fresh boiled water is always in your pet’s cage.

All this is the basic diet of rodents, they can be actively used and absolutely not afraid of any complications!

Now let’s talk about supplements in the diet that need to be dosed and used only as an additive to the main food. Such additions are vegetables (carrots, tomatoes, cucumbers, etc.) and fruits (apples, bananas, pears, etc.). Make it a rule to occasionally pamper your hamster with a new treat, but don’t overdo it!

What can not feed hamsters!

First of all, these are sweets, spicy foods, smoked meats, exotic, fatty or salty foods. Here are a few examples of what you can’t feed hamsters: garlic, onions, peppers, sorrel, full-fat milk, milk-based dishes, butter, sausage (it contains a lot of spices and is also fatty), sweets: honey, halva, chocolate, yes and in general all sweet, exotic fruits: kiwi, oranges, lime, pineapple, watermelon, etc. All these foods are too heavy for the hamster’s digestive tract and can cause serious complications. Also, hamsters should not be given cherry and apricot pits: they contain acid, which is very harmful to the health of rodents.

At first glance, you may be intimidated by such warnings and you may think that it is very difficult to create the right diet for a hamster, but believe me, everything comes with experience and you will learn everything pretty quickly! After all, the most important thing is to provide basic nutrition and be careful with additions. And remember, if you do not know if it is possible to feed a hamster with one or another product, you can always ask a question on our forum, we will be happy to answer you!

Take care of your pet, you are the most important thing he has!