Foods to avoid

Educational reference, not exhaustive — when in doubt, skip it or ask an exotics/small-animal vet.

• Chocolate

  Contains theobromine — toxic to hamsters, can be fatal.

• Citrus fruits

  Too acidic; can cause mouth sores and stomach upset.

• Almonds (bitter/raw)

  Can contain cyanogenic compounds — avoid entirely.

• Onion & garlic

  Can damage red blood cells, same risk family as in dogs/cats.

• Raw potato & green potato skin

  Contains solanine, toxic in raw/green form.

• Kidney beans (raw)

  Contain phytohaemagglutinin — toxic unless fully cooked.

• Sticky/dried fruit in large amounts

  Can cause pouch impaction — hamsters store food in cheek pouches.

• Salty or sugary human snacks

  Hamsters are prone to diabetes (especially dwarf species) and kidney strain.

• Anything with caffeine or alcohol

  Toxic in tiny amounts relative to hamster body size.

• Peanuts/walnuts in excess

  High fat — fine as an occasional treat, not a staple.

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