In moderation, certain seeds and nuts make suitable additions to a hamster’s main diet. Some healthy options include:
- Chia Seeds – High in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. Mix a few into their food bowl 2-3 times per week.
- Flax Seeds – Also contain beneficial omega-3s. Offer a pinch of ground flax once or twice a week.
- Sunflower Seeds – A favorite treat, but high in fat. Feed just 1-2 small seeds 2-3 times per week.
- Pumpkin Seeds – Loaded with vitamin K. Provide 1-2 small seeds every few days.
- Sesame Seeds – Contain plant protein, iron, and calcium. Sprinkle a few into their food a couple times weekly.
- Walnuts – High in antioxidants. Offer a small piece of walnut about once a week or less.
- Peanuts – Either whole or as peanut butter are enjoyed in moderation. High in fat so provide sparingly.
- Avoid raw almonds and macadamia nuts, which contain toxins.
Seeds and nuts supplement a hamster’s commercial food diet. Feed them in very small amounts as they are high calorie. Introduce new items slowly and discontinue if they cause diarrhea.
