Can hamsters eat tuna?
Quick verdict
Unsafe
Key risk
Salt and oil are harmful to such a small animal.
Why
Tuna is too salty and oily for hamsters; avoid it.
Can hamsters eat tuna, and why?
Tuna is too salty and oily for hamsters; avoid it. Salt and oil are harmful to such a small animal.
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.
Warning — what to watch for
Salt and oil are harmful to such a small animal.
If your hamster has eaten tuna, don’t wait for symptoms — contact your vet immediately, or call the Animal PoisonLine on 01202 509000 (24/7, UK). Signs of a problem can include vomiting, diarrhoea, drooling, lethargy, tremors or loss of appetite.
More foods hamsters might eat
Make treat time better
Handy kit for feeding hamsters well:
Frequently asked questions
Can hamsters eat tuna?
Unsafe. Tuna is too salty and oily for hamsters; avoid it.
What happens if my hamster eats tuna?
Salt and oil are harmful to such a small animal. If your hamster has eaten tuna, contact your vet or the Animal PoisonLine (01202 509000) straight away — don’t wait for symptoms.
Is tuna poisonous to hamsters?
Unsafe. Tuna is too salty and oily for hamsters; avoid it.
Check tuna for another pet