Top Foods for Hamsters to Boost Calcium Intake

1. It's often assumed that milk is the goto calcium supplement for hamsters, but this isn't the case. Hamsters, once weaned, typically develop lactose intolerance, and drinking milk can easily lead to diarrhea in these little creatures. While milk does contain a fair amount of calcium, if their digestive systems can't process it, the calcium won't be absorbed, and the purpose of supplementation is defeated. However, offering your hamster dairy products can be a gentler option, as their digestive systems may be more accommodating to these foods.

2. If a hamster fractures a bone during a scuffle or after a fall from the second level of its cage, calcium supplementation might be necessary. You can feed your hamster the protein from boiled eggs, but avoid the yolks, which are high in cholesterol and not ideal for hamsters. The yolks' high cholesterol content can be harmful to their health.

3. Mealworms are also rich in calcium and protein, but it's best to provide them in their dried form for optimal nutrition. Additionally, small shrimp can be a delightful treat for hamsters, offering calcium and being a favorite snack. However, overindulgence can lead to heatiness, so it's important to regulate the portion sizes even if you're aiming to boost their calcium intake.

4. If your hamster's diet usually consists of grains, switching to a formulated hamster food can be beneficial during calcium supplementation. These foods are packed with nutrients and calcium, and they also help with dental health. If your hamster is accustomed to grains and dislikes the formulated food, you can sprinkle it as a powder over their regular food to gradually introduce it and make the transition smoother.

5. For those looking to boost calcium through the diet, animalbased foods like cheese balls, wheat worms, and dried fish can be excellent choices. These treats not only provide calcium but also contain vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and overall health. However, it's crucial to avoid overfeeding these items to prevent nutritional imbalances.

Some hamster chew stones also contain calcium, so in most cases, your hamster can obtain sufficient calcium through their regular diet without the need for additional supplementation. Should you have further questions about hamster calcium needs, there are plenty of other informative articles available on the website.