What dried flowers can hamsters eat?

What are the best dried flowers for hamsters? Read our handy guide to ensure you feed your little furry friend the right floral snack to keep it happy and healthy. 

Dried flowers aren’t just pleasing to the eye. They’re also a deliciously tasty snack for some of our favourite pets.

In this guide, we turn our attention to the tastiest and safest dried flowers for hamsters. These adorable nocturnal omnivores need all the nutrients they can get to live a healthy and happy life. So, read on to get the scoop.

Are dried flowers safe for hamsters?

Although there aren’t mountains of research into the effects of dried flowers on hamsters, there is information to suggest that there are types of dried flowers that are safe for hamsters.

Not only are dried flowers a tasty treat in your hamster’s diet, but it enhances natural foraging behaviours that they would have to use out in the wild.

Dried herbs and flowers do have a lot of good properties to them. For example, certain herbs can benefit their health, and many provide good antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals.

The best dried flowers for hamsters

Before throwing in any old, dried flowers, it’s best to check which are safest. We’ve compiled a list to help you:

•       Chamomile flowers have a positive effect on indigestion.
  
  This dried flower can provide calming effects and anti-inflammatory properties, but it should be given in small amounts, as too much will upset their stomachs and digestive systems.
  
  Introduce this flower to their diet slowly so you can monitor their reaction.

• Sunflower petals provide beneficial nutrients like antioxidants and plenty of fibre to your little furry friend whilst adding tastiness to hay for added foraging fun and activity.
  
  This dried flower makes the perfect natural treat with lots of mineral elements. 

•       Rose petals contain vitamin C, which can help prevent disease and infections. But they should be given in moderation as too many can cause bloating and discomfort.
  
  It’s important to note that red-rose petals contain harmful chemicals called cyanidins and should NOT be fed to hamsters.
  
  
•       Marigold flowers, like calendula petals, have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal qualities and are safe for your hamster.
  
  However, not all marigold plants are safe, and certain ones can be toxic. You should avoid basic marigolds you’d often find in gardens and stores. Marsh marigolds fall into this category too.

If you want to give your furry friend marigolds, opt for wild ones like calendula.

However, it’s super important to research and ensure they’re natural, as many plants get treated with harmful chemical fertilisers and pesticides.

•       Cornflowers as they help with constipation and are anti-inflammatory.
  
  For example, blue cornflower is a dried flower high in natural fibre, supports normal digestion, and possesses anti-inflammatory properties.
  
  They can be sprinkled around as a treat or added to food and hay to reduce boredom and stimulate foraging instincts.
  
  
•       Dandelion flowers/leaves are high in vitamins A, C, and B. They also contain a small amount of Vitamin K and iron.
  
  This tasty flower should only be given as a treat, as little hamsters can get an upset stomach if they digest too much of it.
  
  It’s also essential to get them from a reliable source. And if you’re drying your own, make sure no pesticides or herbicides are used in the area and pick from a spot that other larger animals can’t go to the toilet on.
  
  
•       Hibiscus flowers are anti-bacterial and aid digestion.
  
  Hamsters should be given hibiscus in small amounts, and it's best to introduce it into their diet slowly to monitor their behaviour and health.
  
  You can sprinkle this immune system-supporting dried flower with their regular food for a treat.
  

• Echinacea strengthens the immune system and is considered safe for hamsters (and humans!)
  
  The roots, leaves, stems, and flowers can all be used for medicinal properties, even though the roots are potent.
  
  Before giving this flower to your hamster, your pet must receive the correct dosage for its size and health condition, so it is best to use echinacea in supplements formulated for pets.

Some other dried flowers and herbs are safe for your hamster, including raspberry leaves, parsley stalks, nettle leaves, dill, blackberry leaves, basil, birch leaves, and more.

Just remember that this list isn’t all-inclusive, and different research can suggest varying things. If you’re unsure about a dried herb or flower, then don’t take the risk without speaking to your vet.

Hamsters can live healthy lives with or without dried flowers. So, if your hamster doesn’t eat the dried flowers, there’s no need to panic. Equally, not all hamsters will like every flower listed above, so monitor your pet when you give them something new.

How do I dry flowers for hamsters?

If you want to treat your hamster to some dried flowers but don’t want to purchase them from a store online, you can make your own at home.

1. First, find a dark place to hang your flowers to be left alone and undamaged.
   
   
2. Gather your flowers and tie them in small bouquets. (Keeping the bouquets small with help the flowers dry more quickly.)
   
   
3. Then you want to tie the stems together with string or thread.
   
   
4. When you have done this, hang the small bouquets or leaves upside down in your dark and dry location for two weeks.

Buy beautiful (and edible) dried flowers

If you want to buy a pet-friendly dried flower bouquet, you’re in the right place. At The Last Bunch, we offer flower arrangements that are handmade from flowers that are 100% safe for your furry friends.

From mini bouquets to small vases, there’s a bouquet to fit everyone’s taste and preference.

In the meantime, if you want to see more interesting dried flower content, follow us on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, Pinterest, and LinkedIn.