What Do Hamsters Eat?

Hamsters are popular pets for children, and for good reason. They are easy to care for and require minimal maintenance, but there is still a certain amount of responsibility that comes with owning a hamster. One of the primary responsibilities of being a hamster owner is knowing what to feed them.

Hamsters are Omnivores

Hamsters are omnivores, meaning they will eat food from both plants and animals. Their diet should include a balance of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Hamsters are also scavengers and may instinctively seek out seeds and grains in their environment. A healthy hamster diet should include a variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, seeds, and proteins such as cooked lean meats, eggs, or mealworms. It is best to vary their diet to ensure they are getting all the nutrients they need.

Recommended Hamster Food

The best food for a hamster is formulated, pellet-based foods. These are specifically designed to provide hamsters with the right combination of nutrients. Pelleted diets can be supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables. Some recommended fruits and vegetables for hamsters include apples, pears, carrots, celery, cucumber, and spinach. Additionally, small amounts of cooked lean meats, seeds, and nuts can be fed once or twice a week. Hamsters should always have access to fresh water.

It is important to be mindful of what food items you give your hamster. Avocados, chocolate, candy, and salty or sweet snacks are not suitable for hamsters. Too much of these items can make your hamster sick. As tempting as it may be, never feed your hamster table scraps. Other food items such as raw meat, dairy products, garlic, and onions should also be avoided.

Conclusion

Hamsters are delightful, easy-to-care-for pets, making them a great choice for households with children. Knowing what to feed a hamster is an important part of being a responsible pet owner. A balanced diet should consist of specialized pellet-based food, fresh fruits and vegetables, some lean proteins such as cooked meat, eggs, and mealworms, and small amounts of nuts and seeds. It is important to avoid unhealthy food items such as candy, chocolate, avocados, and garlic. With the proper nutrition, your hamster should live a healthy, happy life.