Russian Campbell diet

Question
Hi Tammy
I recently rescued a neglected dwarf Russian Campbell from a shelter and I have been doing some reading on their diet. (I also have a gerbil and two long hair Syrian hamsters,  all kept separately of course). The information varies a lot and I have read that a complete diet in pellet form is best but I have also read that a mouse/rat seed mix works well for the dwarf hamsters because it has extra nutrients that the hamster seed mix doesn't. I like to give her a bit of seed and pellet. I also offer her a small piece of fresh carrot and kale each night and a tiny piece of apple 3 times a week as I understand diabetes is a problem for this type of hamster. I'm wondering what your opinion is, what has worked for you?  Thanks for your time. KJ

Answer
Hi KJ,

you seem to be really considerate of your hamsters diet and that is a really good quality.

I own over 20 hamsters, mostly Roborovskis, but also three Russian Campbells and one Syrian.

I feed all of my hamsters on the same food - Burgess Supa Hamster Complete Mix - and i have never had a problem with any of them.  They all seem to enjoy it and it also says on the front of the pack that it is suitable for Mice and Gerbils so maybe it has the extra nutrients you were talking about.

I always add bits of hay to their diets and oats as well as small amounts of fresh fruit and vegetables too.

To give my pregnant and nursing hamsters extra protein i give them bits of scrambled eggs and made up ready brek.

It would be fine for you to give your hamsters this too if you think it is neccesary but just make sure to introduce new foods gradually and watch for any signs of illness and discontinue new food if any illness does occur.

Please let me know if need any more info and please keep me posted.

Regards,

Tammy