Diet
As an omnivore, Campbell's dwarf hamster can eat a variety of foods. A well-balanced diet for a hamster consists of 16-24% protein, 60-65% carbohydrates, and 5–7% fat, with constant access to fresh water. In their natural habitat, dwarf hamsters feed almost exclusively on plant materials. A pet hamster's basic dietary needs can usually be met with a quality packaged food designed specifically for hamsters. Commercially available hamster foods typically contain a mix of dry grains, nuts, and seeds that may be fortified with vitamins and minerals. An excess of any one particular seed or nut (even sunflower seeds) can lead to digestive problems, obesity and some form of nutritional deficiency.
In addition to a commercially prepared seed mix, a balanced diet for a domesticated Campbell's dwarf hamster includes a regulated variety of fresh vegetables and fruits. Fresh food, which can make up to 20% of a hamster's weekly intake, should be served dry and at room temperature. Leftovers should always be removed before spoiling. Very dark greens like kale and collards are rich in vitamins and minerals. Some wild vegetables, like yarrow, chickweed, and dandelion and raspberry leaves, are also a good source of variety that help prevent obesity. Small amounts of fruit low on the glycemic index, like apples, pears, strawberries, pitted cherries, and peaches, are also part of a well-rounded hamster diet.
In the wild, Campbell's dwarf hamster is a natural predator of burrowing worms and grubs. A hamster in captivity will relish the occasional mealworm or earthworm as a high-protein treat. Boiled egg whites and small pieces of clean, raw chicken are also acceptable sources of extra protein. Red meats, which are higher in fat, should be avoided.
The teeth of a Campbell's dwarf hamster never stop growing. Like all rodents, they must therefore gnaw regularly to keep their incisors from growing into the skin of the mouth and causing health problems. Smooth, young wood from non-toxic trees, especially apple and willow, is readily used by most dwarf hamsters. Most pet stores sell non-toxic wooden chews designed for rodents. Dog biscuits or thick, uncooked, whole wheat noodles can also be used. Teeth should be examined regularly to ensure they are not growing unchecked.
Certain food items commonly consumed by humans are toxic to hamsters and should be avoided completely. After being completely weaned at around 21 days of age, hamsters are lactose intolerant and cannot digest milk. Raw or cooked onion or garlic is very dangerous and can cause severe haemolytic anemia. Cabbage, celery, and lettuce contain too much water for their volume and can have a dangerous laxative effect on small animals. All parts of the parsley, rhubarb, and avocado plant are toxic. Potatoes and kidney beans are also highly toxic for hamsters unless well cooked. Although a single feeding is not typically lethal, grapes and raisins may contribute to acute renal failure. Chocolate is most often lethal, and sticky foods like peanut butter may solidify in a hamster's cheek pouches and lead to serious infections.
Diabetes is becoming a common problem in Campbell's dwarf hamsters. Although diabetes can be an inherited disease, its emergence is heavily influenced by diet. Unless an individual hamster's ancestry is known to be free of the illness, a Campbell's dwarf hamster should never be fed any foods high in refined sugar (including yogurt drops and many mass-manufactured treats.)
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