While not staples of a hamster’s diet, small amounts of hay and grass can provide enrichment.
- Timothy Hay – A handful of timothy hay in their cage allows nesting material. Ensure it is very fresh.
- Meadow Hay – Meadow hay provides variety. Place some in or near their hideaway.
- Oat Hay – Oat hay gives another option for nesting material. Provide just a pinch at a time.
- Orchard Grass – A few strands of orchard grass introduces new flavors and textures.
- Fresh Grass – Offer a pinch of organic, pesticide-free lawn clippings for added enrichment.
- Rotate Types – Rotate through different grass hays and fresh grasses to keep it interesting.
- Monitor Closely – Always monitor hamsters closely when introducing new grass and hay items. Discontinue if it causes diarrhea.
- Not a Staple – Hay and grass should never replace the staple hamster diet of a quality hamster food mix and some fruits/veggies. Offer it sparingly.
- Avoid Alfalfa – Alfalfa hay is too high in protein and calories for a hamster’s needs. Do not feed it.
Adding tiny amounts of hay and grass can enrich a hamster’s environment, but a commercial hamster food should remain the dietary foundation. Only provide hay/grass in very small quantities.
