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What is the best food for a dwarf hamster?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Try pellets! Pellets prevent the hamster from selectively eating the tasty, but less nutritious, part of their food. The muesli-type hamster foods are a balanced diet only if the hamster eats all of it, rather than leaving the less tasty bits in the bowl.

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Why can't dwarf hamsters have carrots?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

This is because carrots have a high sugar content, and in excess, could predispose a hamster to develop diabetes. However, be assured that carrots are not toxic as such, it's more a case of too much of a good thing having the potential to cause a problem.

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Question

Can a Russian dwarf hamster eat red peppers?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Yes. These are safe for hamsters and contain lots of lovely vitamin C. However, introduce small pieces, as an an unaccustomed food risks upsetting the stomach.

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Question

Can a winter white dwarf hamster have green bell peppers?

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While you can give your winter white dwarf hamster a small serving of green bell peppers, they don't offer a high nutritional value. They're also acidic, so they may give your pet an upset stomach. As a healthier alternative, try giving them slices of celery or carrots. These snacks will be easier on their tummy.

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Can Campbell's dwarf hamsters eat cornflakes everyday as a treat?

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Cornflakes aren't the best option for a daily treat. While your pet might find this kind of cereal really yummy, you should only give your Campbell's dwarf hamster cornflakes on a rare basis, like once every 2 weeks.

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Can I make my dwarf hamster a food mix made out of apples, pears, and grapes as a meal (instead of just a treat or dessert)?

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Apples and grapes have a high sugar content, so you should avoid giving your dwarf hamster servings of these to prevent your pet from developing diabetes. While pears are a great option as a treat, they don't offer a high enough protein content for a fully balanced meal. Instead, give your dwarf hamster 1 tbsp (15 g) of commercial hamster food.

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