5 Best Hamster Treat Options for the Health of Your Fur Ball

So when it comes to maintaining your pet hamster in the best shape possible, knowing the 5 top hamster treats can be a difference maker. But small hamsters do need their share of the food. But treats can be so much more than just a fun way to bond with your furry friend; they greatly contribute to your furry friend’s diet. In this post, we look at our top picks for giving your hamster all the food they need, while delighting them.

Why must Hamsters have Treats?

A hamster’s diet highly depends on treats. These are all ways to reward good behavior, keep your pet stimulated mentally and keep them active. But the best treats won’t matter if they aren’t healthy and packed with nasty additives. You have to feed your hamster a safe diet, well balanced with safe treats, to keep your hamster whole and healthy.

1. Fruits and vegetables fresh produce

This means fresh produce is one of the best hamster and healthy treats you can offer. 

Here are some fantastic options which are rich in vitamins and minerals:

Carrots 

How to Serve: A couple of times a week — small slices.

Benefits: Supports vision and immune health and is high in vitamin A.

Apples (without seeds) 

How to Serve: One small, seedless chunk once a week.

Benefits: It boosts and helps with fiber and aids in digestion.

Cucumber 

How to Serve: Two to three times a week, thin.

Benefits: Hydrating, low calorie, good for kidney function.

Broccoli 

How to Serve: Raw or steamed (without salt), small florets once or twice a week.

Benefits: Everything it is rich in fiber and antioxidants promoting digestive health.

Blueberries 

How to Serve: For a treat, four or five berries a week.

Benefits: Antioxidants safeguard their cells from damage.

Spinach 

How to Serve: Fresh and clean small leaves a day a week.

Benefits: Great for blood health, packed with iron and vitamins.

Bell Peppers (any color) 

How to Serve: You’ll be giving them little pieces of this two to three times a week.

Benefits: Contributes to immune health; contains vitamin C

Romaine Lettuce

How to Serve: Provide small, fingernail-sized pieces once or twice a week.

Benefits: Provide small, fingernail-sized pieces once or twice a week.

Banana 

How to Serve it to your hamster: One piece only the size of a pea every week.

Benefits: These benefit their nerve and muscle function, high in potassium.

Kale 

How to Serve : A small piece once a week.

Benefits: Contains more than 18% of the vitamin K, which is good nutrition for blood and bones.

Strawberries 

How to Serve: A small slice once a week.

Benefits: Both vitamins and antioxidants are good for overall health.

Zucchini 

How to Serve: Raw or slightly steamed twice a week, thin slice twice (two to three times).

Benefits: Hydrating and good for your digestion, yet low calorie.

Advantages of Fresh Produce

Fresh fruits and vegetables are the most important for your hamster well-being as they provide your fur ball with all the essential nutrients and hydration.While it’s always important to wash the produce well and add new items gradually to avoid digestive problems.

2. Commercial Hamster Treats

At pet stores, there are many commercial treats suitable for hamsters. Look for options that are:

Natural: Free of artificial colors and preservatives.

High in fiber: For digestive health.

Varied: Variety to include different grains, seeds and dried fruits.

Suggested Brands

Alternative brands suggested are Kaytee, Oxbow, and Sunseed. You should read the ingredient list and avoid sugary or fatty options.

3. Timothy Hay Cubes

It is necessary to feed a hamster with Timothy's hay. Timothy hay cubes are actually great for dental health and also a great treat. It will keep your hamster's teeth trimmed, as they love to gnaw on the cubes.

Why Choose Timothy Hay?

High in fiber: Supports healthy digestion

Dental health: It reduces the risk of getting dental issues.

Low in calories: No worries when you can offer it daily.

4. Special Treats – Nuts and Seeds

Extra fat is packed in nuts and seeds. Hamsters enjoy them but don’t give not too much of them. 

Some great choices include:

Sunflower seeds: So high in fat, limit to 1 or 2 a week.

Pumpkin seeds: High in nutrients and are a nice occasional treat.

Almonds: The unsalted ones only give them a tiny piece, but make sure they're unsalted.

Nutritional Advantages

These are both rich in protein and good fats, chock full of energy, and keep your hamster busy. Don’t forget to search for unsalted and unflavoured versions.

5. Homemade Hamster Treats

Making some homemade hamster treats are the easy way to ensure that your little fur ball is having all the healthy ingredients they require.

 Here's a simple treat they'll love:

Oat and Banana Treats

Ingredients:

1 ripe banana

1 cup rolled oats

honey (optional, can be excluded to be healthier)

Instructions:

Place your oven at 350°F (175°C), and heat it up.

Beat a banana with a fork or chopstick, until it has broken down into smooth puree.

Add in the oats and honey until it‘s all combined.

Place them on a parchment paper in the shape of small rolled balls.

Bake these balls for 15 minutes until they get light brown.

Serve to your hamster after it has cooled.

These homemade treats are fresh and with no additives, making them a healthy choice!

When to Introduce New Treats

It is very important to gradually add small amounts of the new treats into your hamsters diet as sometimes it can cause side effects if you give heavy amounts of it. 

Here are some tips:

Start small: Give your pet a tiny piece and see what it does with it.

Monitor for allergies: Look out for anything not right with their belly or discomfort.

Ensure variety: To keep them entertained and not bored, rotate treats.

Conclusion

Adding these 5 best hamster treats to your furry friend's's diet is a good indication of their health. You can choose from variety of options from homemade goodies to fresh produce of fruits and vegetables. Always choose health and quality over quantity.

What have you had of these treats? Share about how you are doing or what your hamster’s favorite treats are in the comments below!

FAQ’s

1. How many treats should I provide my hamster each day?

Treats don't need to be a big deal and most people treat once or twice a week. Some risk of obesity and other health problems can increase if treats are increased.

2. Are all hamsters allowed to eat the same types of treats?

However, most hamsters do not have to be quite so particular when it comes to suitable treats, as long as they are not diabetic, such as dwarf hamster related. You should always research what treats are safe to feed your hamster, dependent on the type of breed and size he is.

3. What foods are poisonous or toxic to hamsters?

Of course, some foods like citrus fruits, as well as onions, garlic, chocolate and any other processed food can be harmful to hamsters. Never assume that any food or treat is safe for hamsters; always check.

4. What do you do with home made and commercial hamster treats?

 Homemade treats stored in an airtight container will keep for a week for freshness. Store commercial treats in a cool, dry place away from heat, and watch the expiration date. And if you’re exposing any treats to moisture, they can get mold, so you’re best off avoiding exposing any treats to moisture.

5. What should I do if a new treat causes my hamster to look uncomfortable?

Discontinue a new treat, if your hamster seems uncomfortable or shows signs of digestive distress (like diarrhea). Keep their diet as normal as they can until the symptoms pass, and if problems continue, consult a vet.