Nutrition

• Pumpkin is an excellent source of the antioxidant vitamin beta carotene, which is a precursor to vitamin A. Pumpkin also contains fiber and complex carbohydrates, which are essential for a hamster's health and well-being.
  
  

Seeds

• Commercial rodent feeds often contain pumpkin seeds, which are a very nutritious treat for hamsters. Pumpkin seeds are an excellent source of protein and fiber, which are missing from many hamsters' diets.
  
  

Similar Foods

• Most forms of squash, including pumpkin, provide a good nutritional profile for hamsters. Other nutritious squashes include butternut, zucchini and spaghetti squash.
  
  

Warning

• Pie filling and other forms of processed pumpkin may contain too much sugar for a hamster. Avoid giving a hamster any treat made with added sweeteners.
  
  

Considerations

• Because of its relatively high concentration of natural fruit sugars, pumpkin contains more calories than most other vegetables. Give it only in moderation to hamsters that are overweight.