Can Hamsters Eat Beet? A Complete Safety Guide For Hamsters
⚠️ Due to sugar content (6.76g per 100g), beets should only be given to Syrian and Roborovski hamsters in small amounts. Not recommended for Campbell's, Winter White (Russian), or Chinese hamsters due to diabetes risk. Feed raw or cooked, but always without seasonings.
Quick Answer On Whether Hamsters Can Eat Beet
Yes, hamsters can safely eat beet when given in appropriate portions.
Species-Specific Guidance For Eating Beet For Hamsters
Safe for:
- Syrian Hamsters (in small amounts)
- Roborovski Dwarf Hamsters (in tiny amounts, less prone to diabetes)
Not Recommended for:
- Campbell's Dwarf Hamsters - high diabetes risk
- Winter White Dwarf Hamsters - high diabetes risk
- Chinese Hamsters - diabetes risk
Proper Portions For Feeding Beet To Hamsters
Small piece (1/4 inch cube) for Syrian hamsters, tiny piece (1/8 inch cube) for Roborovski hamsters, not recommended for other species
Preparation Instructions Of Beet For Hamsters
- Choose fresh, firm beet
- Wash thoroughly under cool water
- Peel completely
- Can be served raw or cooked (no seasonings)
- If cooking, cool completely before serving
- Cut into very small pieces
- Remove any tough parts
- Pat dry to reduce moisture
Health Benefits Of Beet For Hamsters
- Rich in antioxidants
- Good source of fiber
- Contains potassium
- Rich in folate
- Provides manganese
- Contains vitamin C
- Natural anti-inflammatory properties
Risks & Considerations Of Beet For Hamsters
- Sugar content (6.76g per 100g)
- Can contribute to diabetes in susceptible species
- May cause red-colored urine/droppings
- Can stain habitat items
- May cause digestive issues if overfed
- Risk of choking if pieces too large
- High oxalate content
Nutritional Profile Of Beet For Hamsters
Values per 100 grams:
Calories
43
kcal
Protein
1.61
grams
Total Fat
0.17
grams
Carbohydrates
9.56
grams
Fat Profile
Saturated Fat
0.027
grams
Monounsaturated
0.032
grams
Polyunsaturated
0.06
grams
Omega-3
0.021
grams
Omega-6
0.039
grams
Protein Content
Percentage
1.61%
Quality
Medium
Digestibility
Medium
Amino Acids
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Threonine
- Valine
- Isoleucine
- Phenylalanine
- Tryptophan
Other
Fiber
2.8
grams
Sugar
6.76
grams
Vitamins
Vitamin A
33
IU
Vitamin B Complex
B1: 0.031 mg
B2: 0.04 mg
B3: 0.334 mg
B6: 0.067 mg
B9: 109 mcg
Vitamin C
4.9
mg
Vitamin E
0.04
mg
Vitamin K
0.2
mcg
Minerals
Calcium
16
mg
Iron
0.8
mg
Phosphorus
40
mg
Potassium
325
mg
Sodium
78
mg
Zinc
0.35
mg
Storage Information Of Beet For Hamsters
Temperature
2-4°C (35-39°F)
Duration
2-3 weeks whole, 3-5 days when cut
Storage Tips
- Store whole beets in refrigerator
- Keep in plastic bag with air holes
- Remove greens before storing
- Don't wash until ready to use
- Check regularly for softness
- Use cut pieces within 24 hours
- Store cooked beets separately