Feeding dwarf hamsters (in captivity)

23april2008
Source: EZNC
Ready made dry feed is available for dwarf hamsters. Every pellet has the same composition. This makes sure that the hamsters get all the substances they need. Less goes to waste, as the animals do not get a chance to select the feed.
There is also feed available composed of grass seeds, herbs and dried insects. Apart from this, most rodents (dwarf hamsters included) love to eat fruit. Almost all animals love apple, pear, peach, raspberry and banana. Most animals do not favor citrus fruit.
The dwarf hamster will eat most kinds of vegetables. Small pieces of endive, carrot, belgian endive, cauliflower or broccoli are usually appreciated. It is best not to feed any lettuce or cabbages. Vegetables and fruits should be given in small quantities. When the feed contains too much water, the animals may get diarrhoea. Pieces of fruit or vegetable that are not eaten straight away, should be taken out of the cage. Rotting fruit or vegetables can make the animals sick.

Almost all rodents eat their own excrement now and then (coprophagy). The reason for this is that the intestinal tract produces vitamin B12. By eating their excrement, the dwarf hamsters obtain their B12 intake.

Dwarf hamsters do not drink a lot, but should have access to clean drinking water al all times. Water should preferably be presented in a drinking bottle.