Hamsters are fun little pets that are easy to take care of. They are curious critters that are fine with human handling if the handling starts while they are still babies. They like to burrow, climb, and play. As omnivores, hamsters enjoy eating many different foods too. They eat grasses, wheat, bugs and insects, and a variety of fruits and vegetables.
Your hamster would appreciate fresh fruits and vegetables as snacks to ensure optimal health and vitality as they age.
The big question is should mangoes be a part of their regular diet? Is mango good for hamsters? The answer is a resounding yes! Hamsters love the taste of mango, and there is no reason to keep this tasty fruit from their reach. Here is what you need to know about feeding mango to your hamster.
Why Mangoes Are Healthy for Hamsters
Mangoes are healthy for hamsters for many of the same reasons that they are healthy for humans. They contain a high amount of vitamin C and minerals that help support a hamster’s immune system as time goes on. Mango is also full of fiber, which will help keep your hamster’s digestive system healthy and keep problems like diarrhea to a minimum.
Mango is also thought to promote eye health and regulate cholesterol levels as a hamster gets older. Overall, mangoes are a healthy addition to any hamster’s diet. Since they are so good for humans too, consider sharing a mango with your tiny furry pet occasionally. Even if you do not enjoy eating mango, there is no reason to keep this juicy fruit from your pet hamster.
Dangers to Be Aware Of
Mango is not inherently dangerous for your hamster. However, there are a couple of things to be aware of so you can ensure a safe and healthy experience for your hamster. First and foremost, if the skin of the mango is thick, it can be a choking hazard, so it should be peeled before being offered to your hamster.
Also, eating a large amount of mango regularly can lead to diabetes because it is so full of sugar. It can also make your hamster obese, which could lead to other health problems. However, as long as the fruit does not make up more than about 10% of your hamster’s weekly diet, there should not be anything to worry about.
Mango Feeding Suggestions
There are many fun ways to feed mango to your hamster as snacks. Of course, you can simply give them a slice of fresh mango flesh to chew on. But if this seems boring, try the following ideas:
Any of these serving options are sure to tickle your hamster’s fancy and give you peace of mind in knowing that you are providing them with the nutrients and enjoyment that they need for high quality of life.
Conclusion
There are many great reasons to feed your hamster mango, at least occasionally. The nutrients in mango will help your hamster thrive, while the flavor and juiciness will take care of their natural food cravings. What types of fruits have you fed your hamster so far, and how did they react? We want to hear from you! Leave us a message in our comments section.
Featured Image Credit: Pixabay
