Can hamsters eat chocolate?
Quick Answer
No
Chocolate is toxic to hamsters and can cause serious health problems or even death.
What Is It?
Chocolate is a sweet, usually brown food preparation of roasted and ground cacao seeds that is made in the form of a liquid, paste, or in a block, or used as a flavoring ingredient in other foods.
Why It Can Be Risky
Feeding your hamster chocolate can lead to numerous health risks.
- Chocolate contains theobromine and caffeine, both of which are harmful to hamsters.
- It can cause diarrhea, rapid breathing, and increased heart rate.
- In severe cases, it can lead to seizures, coma, or even death.
Safe Alternatives
- Instead of chocolate, you can feed your hamster fruits like apples and pears.
- Vegetables such as carrots and cucumbers are also safe for hamsters.