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Fruit can be part of a healthy diet for hamsters, particularly when it’s in low quantities and consumed with other food items. Some fruits are higher in sugar than others, so make sure to keep that in mind when you’re providing them as a form of enrichment for your hamster.
The article will go over what the different types of fruit to provide your pet hamster with, as well as what the best types are. The post will also discuss why fruit is important for the health of your pet in general and how, if used correctly, it can help their mental and physical well-being.
Why do I need to provide my pet hamster with fruit?
Hamsters are omnivores, meaning they need both plant and animal based food sources to consume. Fruit can be a great way to add some variety to your pet’s diet and will also provide them with valuable nutrients that they might not get otherwise (e.g., vitamins and minerals).
During the winter, hamsters may spend more time sleeping and will often reduce their activity levels. Providing them with fruit during this time may help them get some energy, which can help when it comes to physical exercise. This is particularly important for Syrian hamsters, which are very active during the day and night.
Fruit is low in protein and fat, which means it’s not a suitable form of enrichment for hamsters. It should only be given in small quantities as part of a healthy diet.
What types of fruit are suitable for hamsters?
There are several fruits you can provide your hamster with, including:
- apple
- avocado
- banana
- beetroot – [may lower blood sugar] must be cooked first to remove oxalates; otherwise it may cause stones/liver/kidney damage; avoid feeding this raw to your pet.
- blueberries – [may lower blood sugar] always add a squeeze of lemon juice to make sure the blueberries are not moldy/sour
- grapes – [may lower blood sugar] remove the seeds to prevent them from being eaten; also, do not feed this raw or if the skin is already broken. Otherwise, it may cause kidney damage. Avoid these altogether if you know your hamster has a weak stomach or is prone to diarrhea. Grapes should be used in moderation as they can cause a lot of gas. They also contain seeds and skin, both of which they can eat and potentially choke on.
If you enjoyed this article you might also like to read about Can Hamsters Eat Strawberries?
