Can Hamsters Eat Peanuts? A Complete Safety Guide For Hamsters
⚠️ Peanuts should be given in very small amounts due to high fat content (49.24g per 100g). Only raw, unsalted peanuts are safe. Not recommended for diabetes-prone species (Campbell's, Winter White, Chinese hamsters) due to carbohydrate content (16.13g per 100g) and sugar content (4.72g per 100g). Always remove the shell before feeding.
Quick Answer On Whether Hamsters Can Eat Peanuts
Yes, hamsters can safely eat peanuts when given in appropriate portions.
Species-Specific Guidance For Eating Peanuts 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 Peanuts To Hamsters
Syrian hamsters: 1/4 of a peanut, 1-2 times per week. Roborovski hamsters: tiny piece, once per week. Not recommended for other species.
Preparation Instructions Of Peanuts For Hamsters
- Use raw, unsalted, unshelled peanuts only
- Remove shell completely
- Break into small pieces
- Never give flavored, salted, or roasted peanuts
- Check for any mold (especially aflatoxin)
- Store in airtight container
- Discard if showing signs of rancidity
Health Benefits Of Peanuts For Hamsters
- Good source of protein
- Contains healthy unsaturated fats
- Rich in vitamin E
- Source of B vitamins
- Contains minerals like magnesium and phosphorus
- Provides antioxidants like resveratrol
- Contains fiber
Risks & Considerations Of Peanuts For Hamsters
- High in fat - can lead to obesity if overfed
- Contains carbohydrates - not suitable for diabetes-prone species
- Risk of aflatoxin contamination if not stored properly
- Potential choking hazard if pieces too large
- May cause digestive issues if overfed
- Risk of allergic reaction in some hamsters
- Shell fragments can cause injury if not removed completely
Nutritional Profile Of Peanuts For Hamsters
Values per 100 grams:
Calories
567
kcal
Protein
25.8
grams
Total Fat
49.24
grams
Carbohydrates
16.13
grams
Fat Profile
Saturated Fat
6.893
grams
Monounsaturated
24.426
grams
Polyunsaturated
15.558
grams
Omega-3
0.003
grams
Omega-6
15.555
grams
Protein Content
Percentage
25.8%
Quality
Medium
Digestibility
Medium
Amino Acids
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Threonine
- Valine
- Isoleucine
- Phenylalanine
- Tryptophan
- Methionine
- Histidine
- Arginine
Other
Fiber
8.5
grams
Sugar
4.72
grams
Vitamins
Vitamin A
0
IU
Vitamin B Complex
B1: 0.64 mg
B2: 0.135 mg
B3: 12.066 mg
B6: 0.348 mg
B9: 240 mcg
Vitamin C
0
mg
Vitamin E
8.33
mg
Vitamin K
0
mcg
Minerals
Calcium
92
mg
Iron
4.58
mg
Phosphorus
376
mg
Potassium
705
mg
Sodium
18
mg
Zinc
3.27
mg
Storage Information Of Peanuts For Hamsters
Temperature
Cool, dry place
Duration
Up to 3 months at room temperature, 6 months refrigerated
Storage Tips
- Store in airtight container
- Keep away from moisture and heat
- Refrigerate for longer shelf life
- Check regularly for mold or rancidity
- Discard if smell is off or taste is bitter
- Keep away from strong odors
- Label with purchase date