Broccoli can be a very divisive food amongst humans. Most people either love it or hate it. And if you’re one of the people who love it, you may be tempted to share a morsel or two with your pet, even your hamster.
But can your hamster eat broccoli? The short answer is yes, but you’ll want to be careful of how much and how often you give.
Read on to get the health information about broccoli and find out whether or not it’s a good fit for your hamster.
Contents
Broccoli Nutrition Information
One cup of broccoli will give you roughly the following amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other compounds:
- .3 grams fat
- 496 miligrams sodium
- 457 miligrams potassium
- 11 grams carbohydrates
- 5 grams dietary fiber
- 4 grams protein
- 101 milligrams vitamin c
- 62 milligrams calcium
- 168 micrograms folate
- .4 milligrams vitamin b6
- .4 milligrams manganese
- 33 milligrams magnesium
- 105 milligrams phosphorous
- 100 micrograms vitamin k
- 120 milligrams vitamin a
As you can see, the nutritional content in broccoli is such that it is a more than acceptable treat for your hamster.
How Much Broccoli Can You Give a Hamster?
The amount of broccoli you can safely give a hamster depends on its age. Baby hamsters should not eat any broccoli at all. Adult hamsters can have the equivalent of a 1-inch long broccoli floret, dependent on their size and their breed, as certain breeds may have difficulty eating broccoli, or may require smaller pieces to safely digest. Hamsters are able to eat raw broccoli, or broccoli that is lightly steamed and without any sort of seasoning. Always ensure broccoli is washed before giving it to your hamster.
How Often Should You Give Your Hamster Broccoli?
You can give your hamster broccoli regularly to munch on, up to three times a week alongside a diet of normal hamster food, and opposite days that you might give them other vegetables that might cause gas or bloating. Always make sure your hamster has plenty of clean water with which to wash down the broccoli.
If you are unsure about giving your hamster broccoli, consult with your veterinarian and follow their recommendations.
What Risks Are Associated With Feeding Hamsters?
In the case of hamsters and broccoli, there is a risk of stomach upset, such as diarrhea and gas. So, make sure to offer small amounts of broccoli to your Hammy, and to monitor them for about 12 hours after eating for signs of tummy trouble.
Less of a safety risk and more of a rule of thumb, if your hamster doesn’t seem to like broccoli, don’t force it on them. Just as not all humans have a taste for broccoli, not every hamster has a taste for broccoli, and continually offering food your furry friend won’t eat may affect their appetite overall.
A Final Word on Hamsters and Broccoli
Broccoli is a nutritious and delicious snack for both humans and hamsters, provided that the right amount is given in the right intervals. It’s worth incorporating into the hamster diet along with other veggies like carrots.
