Can Hamsters Popcorn?

In addition to being an absolute must at the movies, popcorn serves as the perfect handheld snack, especially with a bit of flavor to jazz it up. And if you’re a fan of popcorn, you may sometimes feel in the mood to share, especially with your pets.

But can your hamster eat popcorn? The answer is yes, but you’ll want to feed popcorn to your hamster sparingly.

Can Hamsters Eat Popcorn

Read on to get the health information about popcorn and to find out whether or not it is a good fit for your hamster.

Popcorn Nutrition Information

A one cup serving of plain, air popped popcorn gives you roughly the following amounts vitamins, minerals, and other compounds:

  • 31 calories
  • 2 g carbohydrates
  • 2 g fiber
  • 1 g protein
  • 4 g fat
  • 7 iu vitamin A
  • 5 mcg folate
  • 7 mg choline
  • 5 mg magnesium
  • 6 mg phosphorus
  • 3 mg potassium
  • 6 mg sodium
  • 2 mg zinc
  • 1 mg manganese

As you can see, popcorn isn’t the most nutritious snack your hamster can have, but it’s better than most things that may be considered as junk food.

How Much Popcorn Can You Give a Hamster?

The amount of popcorn you can safely give your hamster depends on the age of the hamster. Baby hamsters should not be given popcorn at all. When it comes to baby hamsters mother’s milk is always the best option. Adults can be given up to a whole kernel of popped popcorn. Before you give your hamster the kernel, make sure that any sharp bits are removed.

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Only give your hamster fully popped pieces, and only popcorn that has been air popped; no microwave popcorn for Hammy. Also make sure that there is no butter, salt, or any other kind of seasoning on the kernel before you give it to your hamster.

How Often Should You Feed a Hamster Popcorn?

Popcorn can be incorporated into your hamster’s food routine regularly, as long as the portions are monitored, as mentioned above. Avoid giving popcorn to your hamster on the days on which you give it other snacks that are outside its typical food regimen.

What Risks Are Associated with Feeding Hamsters Popcorn?

Popcorn isn’t particularly nutritious, so don’t count on it to give your furry friend the daily amount of nutrients it needs. Too much popcorn has the potential to give your hamster an upset stomach, so monitor your hamster for 12 hours or so to ensure that stomach upset did not occur.

Before introducing any treat into your hamster’s diet, it may be beneficial to consult your veterinarian, especially if you are unsure about how eating popcorn may affect your hamster.

Can Hamsters Eat Popcorn – Final Verdict

Popcorn is a treat that your hamster is sure to love. And if that’s the case, then it’s important to make sure that you follow the advice of your veterinarian in regard to the appropriate type of food and the suggested serving amount of popcorn. If you bear in mind all of the necessary considerations, then there’s nothing stopping you from sharing this healthy, tasty snack with your hamster.

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