Can hamsters eat crickets? Hamsters are omnivores and can eat various human food, animal food, or even insects. Cricket is one of the insects that most animals eat, but what about hamsters?
Can hamsters eat crickets? Well! The good news for you is that your hammy can eat crickets. Keep reading to learn more about crickets and hamsters.
Crickets are insects that belong to the family Gryllidae and are closely related to grasshoppers. There are over 900 species of cricket on Earth.
However, they are food to many animals, including reptiles and birds. But is the case the same for hamsters too? Let’s find it out!
Do Hamsters Like Crickets?
Can hamsters eat crickets? You have often seen crickets in your house or the garden. But have you ever seen your hamsters chasing a cricket? Do hamsters like crickets?
Well! Not all hamsters like the taste of crickets. Some eat them with quite an interest, while others hate them. So the answer to this question is not a clear yes or no. It only depends on your hammy’s choice.
Are Crickets Safe For Hamsters?
Can hamsters eat crickets? Are they even safe for hamsters? Well! The answer is yes. If you see your hamster eating a cricket, don’t panic. They can safely eat the insect.
You would be surprised to know that this insect you often crush under your feet contains many nutrients for your cute little rodent. But before feeding it, you must check whether the taste appeals to your gnawer.
What Are The Benefits Of Crickets For Hamsters?
Can hamsters eat crickets? How are they a healthy treat for your hamster? Let’s explore!
1. A source of protein
Crickets are a source of some vital nutrients for hamsters. They contain protein which plays a crucial role in metabolism and overall body functionality.
2. Contain fats
In adequate amounts, hamsters also need fats. The metabolism of these fats gives your hamster energy to stay active.
3. Fibers
Another important nutrient that crickets hold is fiber. They aid digestion and keep the intestines clear from obstruction, preventing constipation.
4. Vitamin C
Vitamin C in crickets prevents scurvy in hamsters and boosts their immunity.
Due to these reasons, crickets are a good option to go ahead with.
Do You Know?
Hamsters can eat a variety of foods, and we have researched lots of them. Check out this One: Can Dwarf Hamsters Eat Bird Food?
Risks Of Feeding Crickets To Hamsters
Unquestionably crickets have many important health benefits to hamsters, but they, too, have a handful of caveats. Here are some of them:
1. Sticking to only crickets can cause nutritional imbalances
Most hamster owners stick to only a single diet, but hamsters can eat diverse food. Sticking to only crickets does not meet all their nutritional requirements. So you have to look for other nutrient-dense foods as well.
2. Choking hazard
Crickets can sometimes even obstruct your hamster’s esophagus, leading to a choking hazard. Moreover, hamsters cannot vomit, so it can even cause the pet’s death if immediate action is not taken.
3. Live crickets can hurt your pet
Avoid live-feeding crickets to your little gnawer as they can bite your pet which can cause infections and other health issues.
What Is The Right Way Of Feeding Crickets To Hamsters?
Can hamsters eat crickets? What is the appropriate way of feeding these little insects to your hammy? The best way is to buy killed crickets from a pet store. They are clean and safe for your pet.
Additionally, wash them well with water and avoid adding any flavoring agent. Some gnawer owners first fry the insect, but it is a wrong practice.
As crickets already contain fats, frying them adds extra fats to your hamster’s diet, which is quite unhealthy. So avoid frying.
Also, if the crickets are frozen, do not feed them to your little rodent. Allow them to unfreeze first, and then serve the treat to your hamster.
Furthermore, feed your pet crickets with your hand. It will help strengthen the bond between you and your cute little furball.
The Right Quantity Of Crickets For Hamsters
Can hamsters eat crickets? How much can they eat? Depending on the hamster breed, the right amount of cricket varies greatly. The Syrian hamsters are large and can eat one small cricket only once a week.
On the other hand, the Robo hamsters are small compared to the Syrian breed and can eat one cricket every two weeks.
The smallest breed is Dwarf hamsters. Give them only one properly diced cricket after a month. Do not overfeed, as it can cause health problems.
Wrapping It Up – Can hamsters eat crickets?
Can hamsters eat crickets? The good news is yes! They can eat crickets but in moderation and as an occasional treat only.
Though they have many important nutrients for hamsters, the caveats can also not be underestimated. Therefore, limit the amount to only one cricket at a time.
