Can Hamsters Eat Hemp Seeds? A Complete Safety Guide For Hamsters
⚠️ Hemp seeds should be given in very small amounts due to high fat content (48.75g per 100g). Not recommended for diabetes-prone species (Campbell's, Winter White, Chinese hamsters) due to carbohydrate content (8.67g per 100g), though most carbs are fiber. Only use hulled hemp seeds (hemp hearts) to avoid choking hazards.
Quick Answer On Whether Hamsters Can Eat Hemp seeds
Yes, hamsters can safely eat hemp seeds when given in appropriate portions.
Species-Specific Guidance For Eating Hemp seeds 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 Hemp seeds To Hamsters
Syrian hamsters: 1/4 teaspoon, 1-2 times per week. Roborovski hamsters: few seeds, once per week. Not recommended for other species.
Preparation Instructions Of Hemp seeds For Hamsters
- Use raw, hulled hemp seeds (hemp hearts) only
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
- Never use flavored or roasted hemp seeds
- Check for any mold or rancidity
- Can be mixed with other seeds in small amounts
- Ensure seeds are fresh and not stale
Health Benefits Of Hemp seeds For Hamsters
- Excellent source of essential fatty acids
- High in protein with complete amino acid profile
- Contains gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
- Rich in minerals including phosphorus, potassium, and magnesium
- Good source of vitamin E
- Contains antioxidants
- Low in carbohydrates compared to other seeds
Risks & Considerations Of Hemp seeds For Hamsters
- High in fat - can lead to obesity if overfed
- May cause digestive issues if overfed
- Can become rancid quickly if not stored properly
- Small risk of choking if unhulled seeds are used
- May cause allergic reactions in some hamsters
- Contains trace amounts of THC (negligible but worth noting)
- Relatively expensive compared to other seeds
Nutritional Profile Of Hemp seeds For Hamsters
Values per 100 grams:
Calories
553
kcal
Protein
31.56
grams
Total Fat
48.75
grams
Carbohydrates
8.67
grams
Fat Profile
Saturated Fat
4.6
grams
Monounsaturated
5.4
grams
Polyunsaturated
38.1
grams
Omega-3
9.301
grams
Omega-6
28.698
grams
Protein Content
Percentage
31.56%
Quality
High
Digestibility
High
Amino Acids
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Threonine
- Valine
- Isoleucine
- Phenylalanine
- Tryptophan
- Methionine
- Histidine
- Arginine
- Glutamic Acid
- Glycine
Other
Fiber
4
grams
Sugar
1.5
grams
Vitamins
Vitamin A
3
IU
Vitamin B Complex
B1: 1.275 mg
B2: 0.285 mg
B3: 9.2 mg
B6: 0.6 mg
B9: 110 mcg
Vitamin C
0.5
mg
Vitamin E
9
mg
Vitamin K
1.8
mcg
Minerals
Calcium
70
mg
Iron
7.95
mg
Phosphorus
1650
mg
Potassium
859
mg
Sodium
5
mg
Zinc
9.9
mg
Storage Information Of Hemp seeds For Hamsters
Temperature
Refrigerated
Duration
Up to 3-4 months refrigerated, 1 year frozen
Storage Tips
- Store in airtight container in refrigerator
- Keep away from moisture and heat
- Freeze for longer shelf life
- Check regularly for rancidity
- Discard if smell is off or taste is bitter
- Keep away from strong odors
- Label with purchase date