Pet rodents, despite their small size, have very delicate and balanced dietary needs. Rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs, chinchillas, mice, and gerbils each have different digestive systems, nutritional requirements, and tolerances. Therefore, the answer to the question “What can you feed a rodent?” depends on the animal’s species, age, activity level, and overall health condition.

In this article, we take a detailed look at the basic principles of rodent nutrition, forbidden foods, sample diets, and key tips to keep in mind. A proper feeding routine is not only essential for physical health but also plays a major role in mental balance and behavioral development.

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1. Basic Principles of Nutrition
   Although the proportions of food groups vary for each rodent species, some fundamental principles remain the same:

• Use fresh, clean, and natural ingredients.

• Food and water should always be accessible.

• Choose foods high in fiber and low in fat.

• Remove leftover food daily.

• Avoid forbidden foods completely.

Because rodents have sensitive digestive systems, even small mistakes can cause serious health issues. That’s why regular and controlled feeding is essential.

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1. Feeding Rabbits
   Rabbits are not rodents but belong to the lagomorph order. However, in terms of care and feeding, they are often considered alongside rodents.

Diet Composition:

• 80% Hay (Timothy, Meadow, Orchard grass): Essential for dental health and digestion.

• 10% Fresh Greens: Parsley, dill, basil, arugula (should be given daily).

• 5% Vegetables: Carrot, zucchini, broccoli (in moderation).

• 5% Pellets: High-fiber pellets specially formulated for rabbits.

Avoid:

• Potatoes, onions, garlic

• Citrus fruits

• Processed foods like bread or biscuits

• High-sugar fruits like bananas and grapes (only very limited)

Water: Should be provided in a ceramic bowl or bottle and refreshed daily.

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1. Feeding Hamsters
   Hamsters are omnivores, meaning they eat both plant- and animal-based foods. They also need protein supplementation.

Diet Composition:

• 70% Commercial Hamster Mix: A balanced combination of seeds, grains, and fortified pellets.

• 10% Fresh Vegetables: Cucumber, carrot, broccoli.

• 10% Fruit: Apple, strawberry (only twice a week in very small amounts).

• 10% Protein Sources: Boiled egg, yogurt, chicken.

Avoid:

• Chocolate, sugary foods

• Citrus fruits

• Onions and garlic

• Spicy foods

💡 Tip: Always check leftovers daily. Due to their hoarding habits, there is a risk of food mold.

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1. Feeding Guinea Pigs
   Guinea pigs cannot synthesize Vitamin C, making them one of the most sensitive rodents when it comes to diet.

Diet Composition:

• 70% Hay: Should always be available (especially Timothy hay).

• 15% Vegetables: Arugula, parsley, bell pepper, cucumber.

• 10% Pellets: Guinea pig food fortified with Vitamin C.

• 5% Fruit: Kiwi, strawberry, apple (a few times a week).

Vitamin C Supplementation:

• Daily intake of 10–30 mg Vitamin C is required.

• Water-soluble Vitamin C drops can be placed on food.

Avoid:

• Cabbage, spinach (can cause bloating)

• Citrus fruits

• Starchy foods like bread or pasta

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1. Feeding Chinchillas
   Chinchillas have extremely delicate digestive systems. They must never be given fatty, sugary, or wet foods.

Diet Composition:

• 80% Hay (Timothy, Meadow): Their main fiber source.

• 15% Pellets: High in fiber, low in protein.

• 5% Dried Herbs or Flowers: Sage, chamomile, etc.

Treats (Only 1–2 Times a Week):

• Dried apple, carrot chips.

Avoid:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables

• Fatty seeds

• Nuts

• Grains (can cause bloating)

Note: Chinchillas must always have access to fresh, cool, clean water.

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1. Feeding Mice and Gerbils
   Pet mice and gerbils are intelligent, energetic animals that thrive on a versatile diet.

Mice:

• Pellet-based mouse food should form the foundation of the diet

• Grains (barley, oats), small portions of vegetables

• Protein sources: boiled egg, low-salt cheese

• Fruit: small amounts weekly

Gerbils:

• Seed mixes, grains, small amounts of dried fruit

• Hard foods are important for dental health

Forbidden Foods (for both):

• Chocolate, sugar, alcoholic foods

• Onion, garlic

• Caffeinated drinks

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1. General Feeding Rules

Bowl Choice:

• Ceramic or stainless steel is best

• Plastic bowls can be chewed and are harmful

Freshness:

• Provide fresh food daily and remove leftovers

• Never give stale or moldy food

Storage:

• Keep food in a dry, cool, dark place

• Pellets should be airtight

Water Use:

• Drip bottles must be cleaned weekly

• In hot summer months, water should be refreshed twice daily

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1. Sample Daily Menu Suggestions

For Hamsters:

• Morning: 1 tablespoon pellet food + a few sunflower seeds

• Evening: A small piece of carrot + a bit of boiled egg

For Rabbits:

• Unlimited hay throughout the day

• Noon: A bunch of parsley + cucumber slice

• Evening: 1–2 tablespoons of pellets

For Guinea Pigs:

• Morning: Vitamin C-fortified pellets + a slice of bell pepper

• Evening: Hay + a mix of fresh herbs

For Chinchillas:

• Unlimited hay throughout the day

• Evening: 2 tablespoons of pellets + 1 piece of dried apple

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1. Most Common Feeding Mistakes

• Giving too much fruit → causes diarrhea and bloating

• Feeding starchy foods → leads to sugar addiction and obesity

• Offering human food → results in liver and digestive problems

• Using unnecessary vitamin supplements → risk of overdosing

💡 Reminder: Well-intentioned spoiling can sometimes cause serious health problems.

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Conclusion: Small Bodies Require Great Balance
For pet rodents to live long, healthy, and happy lives, a balanced, natural, and proper diet is vital. Each species has unique needs, and understanding these differences is the key to truly caring for them.

Remember: The health of our little companions is entrusted to our knowledge and attention!