Hamster food basics, explained simply
A good diet is one of the best gifts for a long, healthy life. This is a friendly overview, not veterinary advice.
Illustrated GugaStart with a good base
Look for a food made for hamsters (not a generic small-animal mix). Many keepers check the label for roughly 17 to 19 percent protein, 4 to 7 percent fat and 6 to 15 percent fiber for adult hamsters, and avoid mixes with lots of sugar. A veterinarian can advise on your hamster's needs.
Serve it in a way that encourages foraging
Offering about a tablespoon and scattering it, rather than keeping the bowl topped up, encourages foraging and reduces picky eating.
Fresh extras in small amounts
Many keepers offer tiny amounts of safe vegetables, and occasional protein such as plain tofu, boiled egg white or dried mealworms. Introduce new foods slowly. Dwarf hamsters can be prone to diabetes, so sweet fruit and carrots are usually limited for them.
Foods keepers commonly avoid
Citrus fruit, avocado, onion, garlic, iceberg lettuce, raw potato, chili, processed or sugary foods, and fruit seeds.