Teewy food shaped chews: unsafe for dwarfs or good?

[ModernIdiot742]

They’re on Amazon, there seem to be quite a few versions shaped like different fruits or vegetables. Here’s one:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0FLN9GC4Z

But I noticed the ingredients. The pea pod has: Timothy Hay, Barley Grass, Pea Fiber, Corn Starch, Alfalfa, Pumpkin, Vegetable Glycerin, Apple, and Spirulina.

First is the fruit, then the glycerin. They’re both low on the ingredient list but they’re both sugars. So there may be the diabetes risk.

So these are out right? Or do they contain a low enough amount it would be fine?

 

[Maz]

Hi. They're probably not the best treats for a hamster - they don't need to eat timothy hay - that is more for Guinea pigs Also assume you have a dwarf hamster with the mention of sugars. Something like whimzee mini toothbrushes might be better.

 

[ModernIdiot742]

Thanks that’s what I figured. I was a little suspicious of the hay as well. I don’t have a hamster yet but I’ve started buying supplies, and I am targeting a dwarf, realistically a hybrid because that’s likely what it would be.

 

[Maz]

It's great you're getting all prepared before getting the hamster. It really helps them settle and reduces stress, if everything is set up and doesn't need to be changed later. Feel free to ask if you need any tips on enclosures, bedding or contents

I've linked the safe and unsafe food guide below - it gives an idea of treats and all sorts of other things hamsters can eat. There's also a thread on here for recipes and baked hamster items you can make yourself (if you have the inclination!). Most treats sold for hamsters aren't great to be honest - I tend to stick to natural treats like pumpkin seeds (the ones in white shells are good as they enjoy cracking the shells open) or half a shelled walnut (they love those), or even a bit of fresh food like a bit of porridge or chopped hard boiled egg. And they love their daily veg.

All they really need is a good hamster mix, a very small piece of veg each day (only every 3 days or so for the first couple of weeks), and some kind of chew stick for their teeth. Hence mentioning the whimzee mini toothbrushes. Or you can get apple sticks for chewing - some chew them, some ignore them. You can also make boredom breaker treats or chews - out of cardboard toilet roll inners or cardboard egg boxes - just painted with flour and water and seeds stuck on (again if you have the inclination!).

Safe and Unsafe Food list for Hamsters

Many human foods are safe for hamsters, but some are toxic to hamsters. Our hamster site has a researched and referenced food list gives up to date information on safe and unsafe foods for hamsters.

www.thehamsterforum.com