Although hamsters are cute, their diet requires special attention. Many foods that are harmless to humans can be deadly to hamsters. Here are the categories of foods that hamsters should never eat and the reasons:
1. High-sugar and High-fat Foods
Chocolate, Candies, Cakes: These foods can cause hamsters to become obese and may even lead to diabetes. The theobromine and caffeine in chocolate pose a serious threat to the nervous system of hamsters, which may result in convulsions and even death.
Nuts (such as almonds, walnuts): Although nuts are rich in protein, they have a high fat content. The digestive system of hamsters can hardly bear it. Excessive consumption may lead to fatty liver or renal failure.
2. Processed Foods and High-salt Foods
Potato Chips, Biscuits, Sausages: These foods contain high amounts of salt and flavorings. The kidneys of hamsters are unable to metabolize excessive salt, and long-term intake may lead to renal failure.
Fried Foods: Such as fried peanuts, potato chips, etc. They not only have a high fat content but may also contain substances harmful to hamsters, which can easily cause gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. Poisonous Fruits and Vegetables
Onions, Garlic, Chinese Chives: These vegetables contain sulfides that can destroy the red blood cells of hamsters, leading to hemolytic anemia and may even be life-threatening in severe cases.
Citrus Fruits (such as oranges, lemons): They are too acidic and will irritate the stomach and intestines of hamsters, causing diarrhea.
Grapes and Raisins: They may trigger acute renal failure and are absolutely prohibited from being fed to hamsters.
4. Irritating Foods
Chili Peppers, Black Pepper: The spicy components will irritate the digestive system of hamsters, leading to diarrhea or gastroenteritis.
Alcohol and Alcoholic Beverages: The liver of hamsters cannot metabolize alcohol. Even a small amount may cause damage to the nervous system and even death.
5. Raw Meat and Raw Fish
Raw Meat, Raw Fish: They may contain bacteria or parasites, which pose a serious threat to the health of hamsters. It is recommended to choose cooked eggs or special protein snacks.
6. Other Dangerous Foods
Milk and Dairy Products: Hamsters cannot digest lactose, and eating them may cause diarrhea.
Hard or Sticky Foods: For example, the pits of fruits may damage the teeth, and sticky foods like rice cakes can easily get stuck in the esophagus, causing suffocation.
Moldy or Spoiled Foods: Hamsters have high requirements for the freshness of food. Any moldy or spoiled food may cause food poisoning.
Conclusion
The diet of hamsters needs to be strictly controlled, avoiding high-sugar, high-fat, high-salt, irritating, and poisonous foods. For the health of hamsters, it is recommended to choose special hamster food and washed fruits and vegetables, and regularly check the freshness of the food. If it is found that a hamster has accidentally eaten the above-mentioned foods, contact a veterinarian immediately for treatment.