Foods That Make Hamsters Fat

According to the book "Caring for Your Hamster," hamsters in the wild eat foods high in fiber and low in fat. When a hamster's diet is skewed out of proportion, providing more of some nutrients than others, the chance of obesity increases. This is particularly true if you're supplementing your hamster's diet with treats and other foods. If your hamster is having problems maintaining an ideal weight, speak to a licensed veterinarian.

  1. People Food

    • While it's tempting to share small pieces of your meal with your hamster, it isn't always the healthiest option. Foods high in refined sugar or fat may be tasty, but they also contribute to hamster obesity, according to "The Hamster: An Owner's Guide to a Happy, Healthy Pet." Some foods aren't just fattening--they're dangerous, too. Avoid problems by resisting the urge to give your hamster pieces of people food.

    Nuts and Seeds

    • Commercial hamster food is packed full of nuts and seeds. These aren't entirely unhealthy--they contain necessary proteins, as noted by the book "Small Animal Care and Management." In moderation, items like chestnuts, sunflower seeds, peanuts, cashews, squash seeds, pumpkin seeds and soybeans are tasty morsels for a hamster. Problems arise only when these items make up the majority of a hamster's diet. Keep your hamster from getting fat by providing nuts and seeds as one part of a balanced diet.

    Grains

    • One of the most common misconceptions regarding hamsters is their dietary needs, notes "The Laboratory Hamster and Gerbil." Hamsters aren't exclusively herbivores--in the wild, they supplement scavenged grains and greens with insects and other bits of found protein. While hamsters consume a large quantity of high-fiber grains, processed grains and starches such as white bread, crackers and biscuits can cause problems. When a hamster's body processes these foods, excess blood glucose and insulin may result. In addition to weight gain, a diet rich in heavily processed grains can exacerbate issues like insulin resistance and diabetes. Avoid bleached, starchy grains and opt for whole grain products.

    Dairy

    • Some hamsters like dairy products; others don't. If your furry friend takes a liking to items such as milk, yogurt and cottage cheese, don't shy away from feeding them--in moderation. "Nutrition for Veterinary Technicians and Nurses" points out the downside of dairy products--when overfed, dairy items can cause upset stomach, diarrhea and gas. Unpleasant effects aside, dairy products are high in fat, comparatively speaking, for the needs of a hamster. Foods high in fat can cause hamsters to gain weight. Opt for a low-fat version of your hamster's favorite dairy treat and stick to using dairy items as an occasional snack.