Can Hamsters Eat Raspberries? Vet Appoved Facts & FAQ
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Disclaimer: Before changing your hamster’s diet or introducing new ingredients or supplements that they haven’t eaten before, especially when it comes to human food, make sure to consult your veterinarian first. Every pet is different and requires an individual approach to nutrition, depending on their age, health, level of activity, and medical history. The guidelines offered in our article have been fact-checked and approved by a veterinarian but should be used as a mere guide on food safety, rather than an individual nutrition plan.
Summer gives us many pleasant experiences, including various fresh fruits to enjoy. We love to take advantage of raspberries when they are in season, but have you ever wondered if you can share them with your hamster?
The good news is that hamsters can indeed enjoy raspberries, but there are a few considerations that you should know about.
Here, we discuss raspberries, how they benefit hamsters, and the best way that you can give tasty raspberry treats to your hammy.
The Healthy Raspberry
Raspberries are members of the rose family. Besides the red raspberries that most people are accustomed to, they also come in black, purple, and golden.
They are low in calories but are full of beneficial nutrients.
- Calories: 64
- Carbs:7 grams
- Fiber: 8 grams
- Sugars: 4 grams
- Protein: 5 grams
- Fat:8 grams
Raspberries also contain several vitamins and minerals, including vitamins C, B, A & E, as well as calcium, iron, potassium, phosphorus and zinc.
The Hamster’s Diet
- 35–40% carbohydrates
- 15–20% protein
- 5-10% crude fiber
- 4–5% fat
They can be given timothy hay for eating, nesting, and burrowing. Hay provides fiber and environmental enrichment. They can be fed fruits and vegetables as treats and for their nutritional value. They should only be given several times a week and just in small amounts; about a teaspoon sized serving.
How Do Raspberries Benefit Hamsters?
Raspberries have quite a few nutritional benefits that are ideal for us and for hamsters.
Antioxidants
Raspberries are a rich source of antioxidants, which in humans can help prevent diseases like cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Fiber
Raspberries contain fiber, which supports a healthy digestive system. Eating raspberries on occasion can help keep your hamster’s gastrointestinal tract in good shape and help prevent stomach issues.
Are There Any Risks to Giving Raspberries to Your Hamster?
If they overeat raspberries, your hamster might develop some diarrhoea.
Unfortunately, when a small pet develops something like diarrhea, it can become quite serious in a short period of time. It can also turn into wet tail, which can be life threatening.
How Many Raspberries Can You Feed Your Hamster?
Raspberries should be fed to your hamster in moderation, as treats. You can give your hamster 1-2 raspberries twice a week at most. Raspberries should be served at room temperature and in pieces no bigger than what can fit in their paws. While this might seem like a tiny amount, it would be like a large apple for us!
You should prepare the raspberry by cleaning it quite well beforehand and checking for any spoilage. The best way to remove chemicals and pesticides from fruit is by rinsing it under running water. The FDA advises that running water is all you need, so don’t use any soap or other produce wash.
FAQ
Are Raspberry Leaves Okay for Hamsters to Eat?
Absolutely! Limit the leaves to just one or two at a time, and ensure that they are washed to remove any pesticides. Although they may not enjoy the taste.
Are There Any Raspberry Treats That Hamsters Should Avoid?
Any raspberry products containing added sugar, preservatives, or artificial ingredients should be avoided. Don’t give your hammy raspberry jam, anything from a tart or pie, or any other raspberry-flavored snack.
What Are Other Kinds of Fruit That Hamsters Can Eat?
As long as your hamster is eating a well-balanced pellet diet, you can feed them various fruits in moderation.
- Apples
- Bananas
- Strawberries
- Watermelon
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Papaya
- Cherries
- Kiwis
- Peaches
- Pears
- Plums
What Kinds of Fruit Should Hamsters Not Eat?
- Citrus fruit: Avoid any citrus fruits like oranges, grapefruit, lemons, and limes. They are too acidic for your hamster’s stomach.
- Dragon fruit: This has too many seeds, which can be a choking hazard.
- Mango: This is high in sugar.
- Grapes: These are high in sugar.
- Dried fruit: Dried fruit, even of fruit that is safe for hamsters, is off-limits because the sugar is quite concentrated. Too much dried fruit can lead to diabetes and stomach upset.
Conclusion
Raspberries are tasty and healthy treats for hamsters as long as you only give them a small amount. They do provide health benefits, and your hamster will probably love them, so you should feel free to add raspberries to your hamster’s menu.
Just be sure to wash them, and cut them into small pieces that your hamster can handle. If you are using frozen raspberries, thaw them out first. If your hamster ultimately decides that they don’t like them, there are plenty of other fruits that you can give to your pet.
Featured Image Credit: Dionisvera, Shutterstock
