Can hamsters have avocados?
This is one of man’s superfoods, so are they also good for our pets?
It is tempting to feed them what we know is good for us.
Although sometimes, it does not work that way.
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Some animals react differently to this fruit, so we must be cautious when giving them to our fur-babies.
Are avocados good?
Think healthy food and avocados will be on top of the list.
From dips to salads and desserts, they make good tasting and nutritious meals!
They are good for the skin, improve brain performance, and help improve our nervous system’s better functioning.
However, this is how it works for us – humans. Hamsters are wired differently.
They may have a bit of it from time to time, but too much will not do them good as it adds unnecessary weight to them, which does not help in their general condition.
What makes them bad for hamsters?
1. Upset Stomach – Avocados are high in acid, fats, and calories that may be too much for your pet.
You are having more than enough that may upset its stomach, leading to diarrhea or vomiting.
It also has contents like salt, phosphorus, and calcium that may not help the little ones.
2. Getting Overweight – Since it is a fruit, it also contains some form of sugar, which aids weight gain, and though being round may be cute, it is dangerous for hamsters.
Being overweight makes your pet more prone to many health conditions like heart ailments and diabetes.
3. Chronic Fatigue – This condition comes as a consequence of being obese.
This may cause your pet to be prone to depression, which can shorten its lifespan.
Another thing to consider is the texture of avocados.
Since they are sticky, they can get stuck on the cheek pouch.
This may then lead to decomposition that can result in abscesses.
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It can be very dangerous to your pet. High-calorie food can cause an impacted cheek pouch.
Some signs that your pet suffers from this are a swollen head and excessive drooling.
When you give it to your pet the first time, be sure to monitor it closely.
What to do in case of an emergency?
Left untreated, this situation can be fatal for your pet.
Here is what you should do if you see the above signs:
1. Gently massage the impacted region, or using an eyedropper, wash out the pouched with a salt solution.
2. Avoid using any sharp tool to try to dislodge the food as this may harm your pet.
3. When in doubt, bring your pet to the vet. It is better safe than sorry.
What is a healthy compromise?
Ultimately, we see that avocados do not bring much value to the overall health of hamsters.
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Their nutritional contents are not significant enough to consider adding them to our pet’s diet.
They are high in fats and could lead to obesity, which could then lead to death.
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Left with no other choices, we can give avocados but in a very small serving only.
Introduce it a small portion at a time. Better yet, choose to feed them healthier alternatives instead.
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Broccoli, cabbage, carrots, and cucumbers are some of the options you have.
