One of the healthiest snacks for humans is oats. Having them daily imparts many benefits, but what about pet rodents? Can hamsters eat oats? Is sharing oats with your hammy safe? Well!
The good news for you is yes. You can share oats with your furry friend. Though oats impart many nutritional benefits, consumption in large amounts can cause problems too. So, keep reading to know more!
How Are Oats Good For Hamsters?
Oat is a cereal grain that is the most common breakfast option for weight-conscious people. Rich in fiber, vitamins, proteins, and minerals, it is an excellent snack that keeps your gut healthy but can hamsters eat oats? What’s good in oats for hamsters? Let’s figure it out!
As aforementioned, Oats contain many nutrients. But what are these nutrients, and how do they benefit hamsters?
Here’s your answer:
Oats are enriched with fiber
Dietary fiber in oats plays a crucial role in keeping the digestive system healthy. As it aids the stomach in food processing and smooth bowel movement, it is suitable for your hammy.
A good amount of protein
Proteins and their building blocks, amino acids, are essential for various body functions. Oats provide a good amount of protein that your gnawer requires for metabolism and many other body functions. Hence, making oats a good snack.
Contains fat
Yes! Oats have an adequate amount of fats. These fats are good and, if consumed in small amounts, won’t make them obese or prone to other diseases.
Provide your hammy vitamins
Oats contain many essential vitamins like riboflavin, thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid, and pyridoxine. All these vitamins are crucial to boosting your gnawer’s overall health.
Source of minerals
Oats provide hamsters with nutrients like calcium, iron, folate, phosphorus, potassium, etc. Intake of all these minerals means a healthy and active hammy.
What Makes Oats a Bad Choice For Hamsters?
Can hamsters eat oats? Is it safe for them?
Oats and hamsters are a perfect match, but overfeeding can cause problems. Here we have highlighted some for you.
Digestive problems
The fiber in oats can cause bloating, abdominal discomfort, and other digestive problems. Therefore, stick to only small amounts of oats for hammies.
Do You Know?
Hamsters can eat a variety of foods, we have researched lots of them. Check out this One: Can Hamsters Eat Brussel Sprouts?
Sodium can be bad
The sodium in oats becomes problematic if consumed in large quantities. It can damage delicate hamster organs. So, be careful when it comes to offering oats to hamsters.
Pantothenic acid has a dark side too
Also known as vitamin B5, pantothenic acid causes diarrhea, irritability, and cramping. So, it is better to save this tiny creature from trouble.
A high intake of minerals is also problematic.
A high intake of minerals can weaken hamsters’ bones and cause other health problems. Hence, overeating can be a dangerous thing.
Can Hamsters Eat Oats in Raw Form?
Hamsters can surely eat raw oats. But the amount should be small. Before serving them to your furry friend, ensure they are washed thoroughly and presoaked in water for 10 minutes.
Also, ensure you buy organic oats free of pesticides and other chemicals. Sprinkle them on your hamster’s regular diet to give him a healthy boost.
How To Prepare Oats For Hammies?
Hamsters don’t need anything special when it comes to preparing oats. They can eat both dry oats as well as oatmeal. Giving them dry oats doesn’t require much effort. And they eat them with more interest.
Your gnawer can also eat oatmeal. First, you must prepare it by adding a spoonful of rolled oats to a water bowl. Next, place the bowl in the oven for 30 seconds. After that, take the bowl out and allow the content to cool. Now, serve it to your gnawer.
How Many Oats Are Safe For Hamsters?
Can hamsters eat oats? What is the right amount for them to consume?
No matter how healthy a food is, if consumed excessively, it has devastating effects on hamsters’ health. So, you need to know how much oats are safe for your furry friend.
Well! The right amount depends on the breed. Syrian hamsters are giants as compared to Robos and dwarfs. Give them only a teaspoon of oats every week. On the other hand, Robos can eat a teaspoon after every fortnight. The Dwarf hamsters should be fed only a tiny amount. Don’t exceed these amounts!
Wrapping It Up
Can hamsters eat oats? Well! The answer is yes. Hamsters can eat oats but in moderation.
They contain many nutrients, but it doesn’t mean you can overfeed them, as overfeeding oats can put your hamster in trouble, so it’s better to be on the safe side by not exceeding the safe amount.
