Can hamsters eat peanuts?
Quick verdict
In moderation
Recommended amount
One plain, unsalted peanut occasionally.
Why
A plain, unsalted peanut now and then is fine for hamsters.
Can hamsters eat peanuts, and why?
A plain, unsalted peanut now and then is fine for hamsters. High in fat, so keep portions tiny and never give salted nuts.
Hamsters are omnivores who do best on a complete hamster mix, with small amounts of fresh food as treats. They are tiny and prone to obesity and diabetes (especially dwarf hamsters), with sensitive tummies, so portions must be minimal and sugary or watery foods limited.
How to feed peanuts to hamsters
- •How much: One plain, unsalted peanut occasionally.
- •How often: An occasional treat, not a daily food. A treat should be no bigger than a piece they can hold in their paws — roughly a teaspoon or less, once or twice a week.
- •Young pets: Young hamsters should stick to their staple mix; introduce treats only once they are well established, in tiny amounts.
- •Preparation: Always wash fresh produce, remove any pips, stones, seeds, peel or tough skin where relevant, and serve it plain — never with salt, sugar, oil, butter or seasoning.
More foods hamsters might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding hamsters well:
Frequently asked questions
Can hamsters eat peanuts?
In moderation. A plain, unsalted peanut now and then is fine for hamsters.
How much peanuts can a hamster have?
One plain, unsalted peanut occasionally.
Can hamsters eat peanuts every day?
It’s best as an occasional treat rather than a daily food. A treat should be no bigger than a piece they can hold in their paws — roughly a teaspoon or less, once or twice a week.
Can baby hamsters eat peanuts?
Young hamsters should stick to their staple mix; introduce treats only once they are well established, in tiny amounts.
Check peanuts for another pet