Can Hamsters Eat Rabbit Food? What Happens If They Do?

What Are Hamsters?

Hamsters are one kind of rodent. But they have different appearances. Hamsters have short tails, small ears, and stubby legs. They have a stout body shape and they look wider.

What Do Hamsters Eat?

There are more than 16 types of hamsters in the world. Naturally, they may have slightly different eating habits. But generally, they eat vegetables, fruits, seeds, and protein (little). They should not eat caffeine or sugary foods. Even, you should not also give them citrus foods.

Can Hamsters Eat Rabbit Food and What Happens If They Do?

Hamsters with their little cute faces can be great pets. Now, you may also have a rabbit. Therefore, you may ask yourself – Do hamsters eat Rabbit food?

The answer to this question is – yes and no.

Yes, because some rabbit foods are ideal for hamsters. No, because some foods are not suitable for them. So, let’s check out – which rabbit foods are good for Hamsters.

Vegetables

* Broccoli
* Kale
* Bok Choy
* Basil
* Parsley
* Rosemary
* Mint
* Watercress
* Cilantro
* Clover
* Carrots
* Carrot Tops
* Dandelion Greens
* Bell Peppers
* Mustard Greens
* Romaine Lettuce

The above vegetables and green leaves may be safe for rabbits and Hamsters. But, hamsters have a very sensitive digestive system. That’s why you should offer these foods occasionally and the amount of food should not be too much.

Fruits

* Apple (without seeds)
* Mango
* Banana
* Pears
* Raspberries
* Strawberries
* Melons
* Plums
* Star Fruit

These fruits should be served in a lower amount. Overfeeding of these fruits may not be good for hamsters. You should not offer citrus or watery fruits.

Water

Your rabbit and your hamster need a consistent supply of water. Water is an important part of rabbits’ and hamsters’ diets. That’s why you should supply water for 24 hours.

Grass Hay

Alfalfa, Timothy, and meadow hays are good for your rabbit and hamster. These hays have a good amount of fiber in them. As a result, they help your hamster to improve its natural digestive function.

Timothy hay is good for your hamster because it has a lower amount of calcium and protein. Apart from that, the fibers may help your hamster to build strong jaws. These fibers might file down their teeth and this could be beneficial for them.

What Happens When Hamsters Eat The Wrong Food (rabbit food)

Hamsters with sensitive digestive systems often suffer from diarrhea. So, if they eat unsafe foods (rich in protein or citrus fruits), their digestive system may fail.

Which Rabbit Foods Are Dangerous For A Hamster?

Some rabbit foods are dangerous for hamsters. You should avoid these foods to keep your pet healthy.

Vegetables

* Potato
* Mushrooms
* Okra
* Eggplant
* Iceberg Lettuce
* Rhubarb

Fruits

* Grapes
* Oranges
* Watermelon
* Tangerines
* Apple Seeds and Skins
* Grape Skins

Rabbit Pellets

Rabbit pellets have a higher amount of fiber. As a result, these pellets are not suitable for your little hamster. Hamsters’ digestive system needs around 20% of the protein in their diets. Hence, rabbit pellets are not a safe food for them.

Some foods are only meant for Hamsters and these foods are safe. You can offer some rabbit foods to your pet. But you should serve those foods with caution. Hamsters have smaller bodies and their food habits are also different from rabbits. Therefore, you should offer the right amount of rabbit food to your hamster.