Can hamsters have broccoli, or is it on their “no-no” list?
That’s a good question, and one with a pretty straightforward answer!
Keep reading to find out if it’s safe for your sweet little pal!
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Table of Contents
Can Hamsters Eat Broccoli?
Yes, hamsters CAN eat broccoli (unless your vet says otherwise, of course).
In fact, broccoli is a great treat for hamsters and can even be served pretty regularly!
The best amount of broccoli is a half to one teaspoon every one or two days.
Told you it was a straightforward answer!
Take a look at this cute hamster eating broccoli:
READ MORE: Can Hamsters Eat Oranges?
What Others Treats Can I Give My Hamster?
Hamsters thrive on a high variety diet. Fruit and vegetables are with some exceptions good and healthy choices that add antioxidants and healthy fats to a diet. In addition, food like meat and cheese can be important protein sources [1].
Watching your hamster feast on its treats is sure to give you a warm and even proud feeling!
If you’re ever unsure about feeding your hamster a particular food, just don’t do it. Likewise, if your hamster ate something you’re not sure about, call your vet.
To answer the most common items given as treats (and some items not to give you hammy) we’ve put together a hamsterific infographic you can get below.
READ MORE: Can Hamsters Eat Peppers?
3-Step System for Testing New Hamster Treats
When I introduce new treats for my Hamster, Mr. Bubbles, there is a 3-step system I use every time to ensure it’s good for his little stomach.
How to Test New Hamster Treats
- Make sure its fresh, washed and doesn’t contain any pesticide (i.e. purchase organic treats)
- Test if your hamster can eat the treat. This is done by giving a little test piece and waiting a couple of days watching for any symptoms
- Introduce the treat into your hamster’s diet at more regular intervals over the coming weeks
Best Hamster Food
Besides giving your hamster treats, it is very important to give it the right kind of hamster food.
There is a lot of food out there with one of the following traits:
- Not enough protein in it
- Becomes dusty
- Your hamster simply don’t like it and leave a lot of food
That’s why, we have done the research and recommend the following three products, which are none of the above, and instead are the backbone of a good hamster diet.
READ MORE: Can Dwarf Hamsters Eat Spinach?
Other Feeding Tips for Your Hamster
1. Provide fresh water every day. The water bottle should be frequently checked for any dirt or leaks to avoid contamination of the water. It is also good to monitor your hamster’s water intake because a reduction of water intake can mean you need to visit the vet.
2. Remove any remnants of feed to avoid rotting- this is especially for fresh fruits, vegetables, and powdered food which tend to grow mold/bacteria.
3. Do not overfeed on vegetables to avoid diarrhea. Overfeeding on sugary fruits and treats is also discouraged because it tends to cause obesity in your pet.
4. When introducing a new kind of feed to your hamster, you should first give a small amount and observe for a week for any negative reaction to the food. If there is no negative reaction, then the feed is safe for consumption for your hamster. A sudden change in the diet of your pet may cause stress.
READ MORE: Can Hamsters Have Peanuts?
Now you try it!
You are now well equipped to start feeding all kinds of treats to your hamster.
If you have any questions about any treat we have not covered please leave a comment below – we’ll be around to answer it.
References
- 1. Hamster Care Sheet & Guide | PetSmart [Internet]. Petsmart.com. 2021 [cited 2021 Dec 6]. Available from: https://www.petsmart.com/learning-center/small-pet-care/hamster-care-guide/A0092.html
- 2. Ansley Hill, RD, LD. Top 14 Health Benefits of Broccoli [Internet]. Healthline. Healthline Media; 2018 [cited 2021 Dec 6]. Available from: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-broccoli
Can hamsters eat broccoli? Have you tried feeding it to your pet? Please share your experience with us below!
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