Coconuts add a bit of tropical flair to any dessert, smoothie, or even cocktails. In addition to being delicious, coconuts boast an array of health benefits to the humans who consume them. So, if you enjoy coconuts, you may be wondering if this tasty, tropical treat is one that your pet would also like – especially if you have a hamster.
But can your hamster eat coconuts? The answer is yes, but there are several things to consider before doing so. Read on to get the health information about coconuts and find out whether or not it’s a good fit for your hamster.
Contents
Coconut Nutrition Information
An entire cup of chopped coconut gives you roughly the following amounts of vitamins, minerals, and other compounds:
- 3g protein
- 10g carbohydrates
- 27g fat
- 5g sugar
- 7g fiber
- 60% daily value manganese
- 15% daily value selenium
- 44% daily value copper
- 13% daily value phosphorus
- 6% daily value potassium
- 11% daily value iron
- 10% daily value zinc
How Much Coconut Can You Give a Hamster?
The amount of coconut you can safely give a hamster depends on its age. Baby hamsters should not eat any coconut at all. Adult hamsters can safely have a piece of coconut meat measuring an inch long under supervision. And while coconut contains many health benefits, it’s important to give your hamster pieces coconut alongside a balanced diet of regular hamster food. Always wash coconuts before you share them with your hamster.
How Often Should You Give Your Hamster Coconut?
Coconuts should only be given to hamsters once in a while, even if your Hammy seems to have developed a taste for it. The recommended serving frequency is a week to two weeks, depending on the size of your hamster.
What Risks Are Associated With Feeding Coconut to Hamsters?
The fat content in coconut has the potential to cause stomach upset in hamsters, including vomiting and diarrhea, so your hamster should be monitored for a few hours after munching on some coconut.
It’s recommended to consult your vet before you give your hamster coconut, as certain breeds are predisposed to conditions like diabetes, and the amount of sugar contained in coconut has the potential to trigger or worsen the condition.
What Other Benefits Do Coconuts Have?
Believe it or not, coconuts can serve your hamster other purposes besides being a healthy, tasty snack. The shell of the coconut can be used to help to keep their teeth in good shape, and the shell can even be hollowed out to make a hiding place for your furry friend to hang out in.
A Final Word On Hamsters and Coconut
Coconut can be a good source of vitamins and minerals for both people and animals, but when it comes to hamsters, it’s good to use a cautious approach when offering some to Hammy, only using small portions in accordance with the needs of your hamster breed or the recommendations of your vet.
