Complete Hamsters Food Guide

What Can Hamsters Eat?

Hamsters are omnivores that need a varied diet. Commercial hamster food should be the base, with fresh treats in moderation.

🥣

1-2 tbsp

Daily Food

🥦

Varied

Diet Type

🥚

10-15%

Protein Needed

🍓

Small

Treat Portions

✅Safe Foods for Hamsters

🥣

Hamster Pellets

Base of diet, quality brand

🥕

Carrots

Small pieces, vitamin A

🥦

Broccoli

Small florets, nutritious

🥒

Cucumber

Hydrating, low calorie

🥚

Hard-Boiled Egg

Protein treat, small amount

🌾

Oats

Plain, dry oats

🚫TOXIC Foods - Never Feed

🍊

Citrus Fruits

AVOID

Too acidic for hamsters

🧅

Onions/Garlic

TOXIC

Blood cell damage

🍫

Chocolate

TOXIC

Theobromine poisoning

🥜

Almonds

TOXIC

Contain cyanide compounds

🥔

Raw Potatoes

TOXIC

Solanine poisoning

🍎

Apple Seeds

TOXIC

Cyanide

🍽️ Hamsters Diet Basics

Commercial Mix

1-2 tablespoons daily of quality hamster food.

Fresh Vegetables

Small amounts 2-3 times per week. Remove uneaten food.

Protein

Occasional mealworms, egg, or chicken for protein.

Fresh Water

Water bottle changed daily.

🆘If Your Pet Eats Something Toxic

1. Stay Calm

Note what was eaten, how much, and when.

2. Call For Help

ASPCA Poison Control: 888-426-4435 or your vet.

3. Don't Wait

Time matters. Don't try home remedies first.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can hamsters eat cheese?▼

Small amounts occasionally. Many hamsters love cheese, but it's high in fat. Tiny piece once a week max.

What fruits can hamsters eat?▼

Small amounts of apple (no seeds), strawberry, blueberry, banana. Fruit is high in sugar—rare treat only.

Do hamsters need protein?▼

Yes! Occasional mealworms, plain cooked chicken, or hard-boiled egg provides needed protein.

Learn More About Hamsters

Explore our complete care guides, cost estimates, and breed information.

Browse Breeds →Cost Guide