Can Hamsters Eat Barley? A Complete Safety Guide For Hamsters
⚠️ Due to high carbohydrate content (73.48g per 100g), barley should be limited for Syrian and Roborovski hamsters, and avoided for diabetes-prone species (Campbell's, Winter White, Chinese hamsters). Must be served raw and dry.
Quick Answer On Whether Hamsters Can Eat Barley
Yes, hamsters can safely eat barley when given in appropriate portions.
Species-Specific Guidance For Eating Barley For Hamsters
Safe for:
- Syrian Hamsters (very limited amounts)
- Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters (very limited amounts)
Not Recommended for:
- Campbell's Dwarf Hamsters
- Winter White Dwarf Hamsters
- Chinese Hamsters
Proper Portions For Feeding Barley To Hamsters
Few grains (2-3) for Syrian hamsters, 1-2 grains for Roborovski hamsters. Not recommended for other species. Maximum twice per week.
Preparation Instructions Of Barley For Hamsters
- Use raw, uncooked barley only
- Check for any mold or discoloration
- Remove any debris
- Serve dry - never cooked
- Store in airtight container
- No additives or processing
- Ensure grains are whole
Health Benefits Of Barley For Hamsters
- Good source of fiber
- Contains minerals
- Source of B vitamins
- Contains protein
- Rich in antioxidants
- Provides energy
- Contains essential amino acids
Risks & Considerations Of Barley For Hamsters
- High carbohydrate content
- Not suitable for diabetes-prone species
- Can cause weight gain if overfed
- Risk of hoarding
- May raise blood sugar levels
- Should not replace main diet components
- Can be too hard if not properly dried
Nutritional Profile Of Barley For Hamsters
Values per 100 grams:
Calories
354
kcal
Protein
12.48
grams
Total Fat
2.3
grams
Carbohydrates
73.48
grams
Fat Profile
Saturated Fat
0.482
grams
Monounsaturated
0.295
grams
Polyunsaturated
1.523
grams
Omega-3
0.117
grams
Omega-6
1.406
grams
Protein Content
Percentage
12.48%
Quality
Medium
Digestibility
Medium
Amino Acids
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Threonine
- Valine
- Isoleucine
- Phenylalanine
- Tryptophan
- Methionine
Other
Fiber
17.3
grams
Sugar
0.8
grams
Vitamins
Vitamin A
1
IU
Vitamin B Complex
B1: 0.191 mg
B2: 0.114 mg
B3: 4.604 mg
B6: 0.26 mg
B9: 23 mcg
Vitamin C
0
mg
Vitamin E
0.02
mg
Vitamin K
2.2
mcg
Minerals
Calcium
33
mg
Iron
3.6
mg
Phosphorus
264
mg
Potassium
452
mg
Sodium
12
mg
Zinc
2.77
mg
Storage Information Of Barley For Hamsters
Temperature
Room temperature
Duration
Up to 12 months when properly stored
Storage Tips
- Store in airtight container
- Keep in cool, dry place
- Check regularly for moisture
- Monitor for insects
- Discard if moldy
- Keep away from strong odors
- Label with purchase date