Can Hamsters Eat Basil? A Complete Safety Guide For Hamsters
⚠️ Safe for all hamster species due to very low sugar content (0.3g per 100g). Feed in moderation as a supplement to regular diet. Strong aroma may initially deter some hamsters.
Quick Answer On Whether Hamsters Can Eat Basil
Yes, hamsters can safely eat basil when given in appropriate portions.
Species-Specific Guidance For Eating Basil For Hamsters
Safe for:
- Syrian Hamsters
- Campbell's Dwarf Hamsters
- Winter White Dwarf Hamsters
- Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters
- Chinese Hamsters
Not Recommended for:
Proper Portions For Feeding Basil To Hamsters
One small leaf for Syrian hamsters, half leaf for dwarf species. Can be offered 2-3 times per week as part of varied greens.
Preparation Instructions Of Basil For Hamsters
- Choose fresh, bright green leaves
- Wash thoroughly under cool water
- Remove any wilted or damaged parts
- Pat completely dry
- Tear into appropriate sized pieces
- Remove thick stems
- Serve at room temperature
- Only feed fresh leaves
Health Benefits Of Basil For Hamsters
- Very low sugar content
- Rich in antioxidants
- Good source of vitamin K
- Contains essential oils
- Anti-inflammatory properties
- Contains calcium
- Natural antibacterial properties
Risks & Considerations Of Basil For Hamsters
- Strong aroma may deter some hamsters
- Essential oils can be potent if overfed
- May cause digestive upset if too much given
- Risk of pesticide residue if not organic
- Can wilt quickly in habitat
- Should not replace main diet components
- May cause loose stools if overfed
Nutritional Profile Of Basil For Hamsters
Values per 100 grams:
Calories
23
kcal
Protein
3.15
grams
Total Fat
0.64
grams
Carbohydrates
2.65
grams
Fat Profile
Saturated Fat
0.088
grams
Monounsaturated
0.088
grams
Polyunsaturated
0.389
grams
Omega-3
0.315
grams
Omega-6
0.074
grams
Protein Content
Percentage
3.15%
Quality
Medium
Digestibility
Medium
Amino Acids
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Threonine
- Valine
- Isoleucine
- Phenylalanine
- Tryptophan
Other
Fiber
1.6
grams
Sugar
0.3
grams
Vitamins
Vitamin A
264
IU
Vitamin B Complex
B1: 0.034 mg
B2: 0.076 mg
B3: 0.902 mg
B6: 0.155 mg
B9: 68 mcg
Vitamin C
18
mg
Vitamin E
0.8
mg
Vitamin K
414.8
mcg
Minerals
Calcium
177
mg
Iron
3.17
mg
Phosphorus
56
mg
Potassium
295
mg
Sodium
4
mg
Zinc
0.81
mg
Storage Information Of Basil For Hamsters
Temperature
2-4°C (35-39°F)
Duration
5-7 days when refrigerated properly
Storage Tips
- Store with stems in water like flowers
- Cover loosely with plastic bag
- Keep away from cold spots in fridge
- Check daily for wilting
- Remove any blackened leaves
- Don't wash until ready to use
- Best used within 3 days of purchase