Can Hamsters Eat Apples? 22 Foods Hamsters can (& can’t) eat!
The best apple to be fed to your hamster is the seedless apple. If you peel an apple make sure there aren’t any seeds in it, as both Syrian and Dwarf hamsters can choke on the seeds – which is even more true for the small, Roborovski Hamster.
Like many other fruits, apples contain a lot of positive vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin C, vitamin K and calcium, so they are great for beefing up on vitamins after a turn on the hamster wheel.
A serving of only a quarter teaspoon is enough for your hamster and feeding your hamster this amount of apple once or twice per week is just perfect.
What others treats can I give my hamster?
Hamsters thrive on a high variety diet. Fruit and vegetables are with some exceptions a good and healthy choice that add antioxidants and healthy fats to a diet. In addition, food like meat and cheese can be important protein sources…
… and 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.
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, that are none of the above, and instead are the backbone of a good hamster diet.
Product
Best choice 
Best price
Good for
Both Syrian and Dwarf Hamsters
Both Syrian and Dwarf Hamsters
Both Syrian and Dwarf Hamsters
Features
Made from soya, whole peanuts and sunflower seeds
Non-GMO food made from three varieties of grass hay to support variety
Pelletted food made from a variety of corns and seeds
Pros
High protein content of 16%, even picky eaters love it
High protein content of 16%, good value for money. Crunchy pieces good for teeth health
Crunchy pieces that are good for teeth health
Cons
Quite expensive
Can get crumbly
Protein content of 13.5% on the lower end
Best choice
Product
Good for
Both Syrian and Dwarf Hamsters
Features
Made from soya, whole peanuts and sunflower seeds
Pros
High protein content of 16%, even picky eaters love it
Cons
Quite expensive
Product
Good for
Both Syrian and Dwarf Hamsters
Features
Non-GMO food made from three varieties of grass hay to support variety
Pros
High protein content of 16%, good value for money. Crunchy pieces good for teeth health
Cons
Can get crumbly
Best price
Product
Good for
Both Syrian and Dwarf Hamsters
Features
Pelletted food made from a variety of corns and seeds
Pros
Crunchy pieces that are good for teeth health
Cons
Protein content of 13.5% on the lower end
Interested in other treats for your hamster?
Can hamsters eat strawberries?
Can hamsters eat peanut butter?
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 mould / bacteria.
3. Do not overfeed on vegetables to avoid diarrhoea. 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.
Now you try it!
You are now well equipped to start feeding all kinds of treats to your hamster.
If you have any questions around any treat we have not covered please leave a comment below – we’ll be around to answer it.
The Hamster Owner's Handbook
This e-book is the complete guide for hamster owners. You'll learn about hamster breeds, behavior, health, hygiene, fitness, food, and more! We'll explain to you everything a hamster will go through, from beginning to end.
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