Can Hamsters Eat Carrots? Portion Size and Feeding Tips

Most healthy pet hamsters can have a small piece of plain carrot. Carrot should be an occasional fresh-food addition to a balanced hamster ration, not a daily vitamin supplement or a substitute for species-appropriate food.

How much?

Blue Cross recommends fresh-food portions around the size of the hamster’s ear. Start smaller if the hamster has not eaten carrot before. Remove uneaten fresh food so it does not spoil in a hidden cache.

Preparation

• wash the carrot;
• serve it raw or plainly cooked with no salt, butter or seasoning;
• cut a very small piece;
• introduce one new fresh food at a time.

Carrots do not “wear down the teeth” enough

Hamster incisors grow continuously, but ordinary carrot is not a dental treatment. Hamsters need appropriate gnawing opportunities and a balanced diet. Overgrown teeth or difficulty eating needs veterinary attention.

What about sugar?

Carrots contain natural sugars, so there is no reason to feed large portions. This is especially important for dwarf hamsters when a veterinarian has concerns about weight or metabolic disease.

Build the diet around hamster food

A complete commercial hamster ration should remain the foundation, with tiny quantities of suitable fresh foods for variety and foraging.

Sources

• Blue Cross: Hamster Care
• RSPCA: Hamster Diet