What Happens If You Feed a Hamster Too Many Vegetables?

Taking care of and feeding hamsters can be a child's first pet-related job, or a responsibility for the whole family. Hamsters' diets consist of pellets composed of grasses, grains and essential vitamins for optimal growth and health. They also benefit from a small amount of fresh fruits and vegetables, but too many can cause problems for your hamster.

  1. Too Much Plant Matter

    • If your hamster has too many leafy greens or other veggies, it can develop diarrhea. To avoid such digestion distress, add a small amount of grass, carrots or other small veggies a day and watch your hamster for cues that it is healthy before increasing the amount.

    Unwashed Vegetables

    • If you are feeding your hamster a small amount of vegetables and it is still getting sick, make sure you are washing the veggies thoroughly. Unwashed fruit and vegetables can cause much distress in a hamster. Dry all pieces before giving them to your hamster.

    Citrus Fruits or Acidic Vegetables

    • Any amount of citrus or highly acidic vegetables such as oranges, lemons, tomatoes and lime are too much and harmful to a hamster. Abstain from giving it any of the above and it should maintain a healthy disposition and energy level.

    Conclusion

    • Give your hamster small amounts of washed and dried leafy greens, carrots, alfalfa and other non-acidic vegetables and your hamster should live a comfortable life. If too many of the above are ingested, simply take away the problem veggie and allow the hamster's system to rest, only eating dry pellet food. Then slowly re-introduce appropriate vegetables.