If you’re a hamster parent, you might ask yourself whether hamsters can eat blueberries. The short answer is yes, but you should be mindful of portion sizes.
With that in mind, let’s see how you can make blueberries a healthy treat for your hammie.
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How Safe Are Blueberries?
These fruits are safe, as long as your hamster eats them in moderation. Too many blueberries equal too much sugar, which raises their blood sugar and can lead to a lot of health issues.
Besides, hamsters are omnivores, so fruits aren’t off the table for them. In the wild, hamsters would eat small pieces of fruit, including the delicious blueberries.
Even blueberry leaves are safe for your hamster to eat, but chances are he won’t because they’re not as tasty.
How Many Blueberries Can My Hamster Eat?
Remember that a big, Syrian hamster requires about a tablespoon of food per day. Blueberries and other snacks should approximate 15% of the amount of food your furry friend receives each day.
In the case of blueberries, this translates into two medium blueberries for a Syrian hamster and half a medium blueberry for a Dwarf hamster, once or twice per week.
When you first introduce blueberries to your hamster, give him half at first. Notice if there are any side effects, particularly GI distress. If not, it’s safe to assume your hamster tolerates blueberries and won’t react badly if you offer more.
What Are The Health Benefits Of Blueberries For My Hamster?
Blueberries have been touted as a superfood because they’re packed with nutrients that protect our health, both for humans and rodents.
- Hamsters are at risk for high cholesterol, but blueberries are packed with polyphenols and manganese that reduce bad cholesterol.
- Blueberries are low in calories, so they don’t contribute to unnecessary weight gain.
- Blueberries are packed with fibres, that aid the hamsters’ digestive systems.
- Blueberries have a lot of vitamin C and antioxidants, which boost the immune system.
One of the recent myths is that blueberries can treat bumblefoot in hamsters, but that’s not the case. The research shows blueberries are effective in preventing this disease, though, thanks to their positive effects on hamsters’ immune systems.
Can My Hamster Eat Blueberry Muffins?
Yes, but you have to make sure the muffins have a low-sugar content. Otherwise, your hamster may develop serious health issues, including cardiovascular problems and diabetes. A high sugar and carb content also makes hamsters obese.
Besides, because the blueberries in these muffins are cooked, many vitamins and minerals are lost in the process, so they have fewer nutritional benefits.
Give your hamster just a few crumbs of blueberry muffins, as a reward and don’t make it a daily or weekly habit.
Can Dwarf Hamsters Eat Blueberries?
Yes, especially considering all their health benefits. Just remember to limit their intake to half a blueberry a maximum of two times per week.
Can Syrian Hamsters Eat Blueberries?
Yes! Syrian hamsters are bigger, but you still need to adjust the portion of blueberries according to their weight and size. So one to two blueberries once or twice per week is fine.
How Do I Feed My Hamster The Blueberries?
The main rule is to chop the blueberries in smaller pieces to reduce the risk of choking.
Otherwise, you can feed hamsters fresh or dried blueberries, as a treat or a reward, or together with their food.
In Conclusion
Your hamster can eat blueberries, as long as you respect the recommended portion sizes and alternate blueberries with other healthy fruits and veggies. Remember not to feed the blueberries whole, and you’re food to go!