Niacin (Vitamin B3) is a key player in energy metabolism, helping your hamster convert carbohydrates, fats, and proteins from food into cellular energy. It supports healthy skin, a properly functioning digestive tract, and nervous system health. Hamsters can synthesize some niacin from the amino acid tryptophan, but dietary sources remain important to meet full requirements. Whole grains, seeds, and protein-rich foods like mealworms and eggs are reliable niacin sources.
A couple of mealworms provide roughly 0.5mg of niacin — your hamster needs approximately 20-40mg of niacin per kilogram of feed, about 0.2-0.5mg per day. Whole grains, fortified pellets, seeds, and occasional protein treats provide more than adequate niacin.
0.0% of daily nutrient intake
Vitamin B3 (Niacin) makes up 0.0% of your hamster's total daily nutritional requirements by weight. That's a tiny amount — but it matters.
Skin inflammation and dermatitis, diarrhea, loss of appetite, poor coat condition, and lethargy. Severe niacin deficiency (pellagra) is rare in hamsters but can occur on extremely restricted diets.
Niacin has a wide safety margin and excess is excreted readily as a water-soluble vitamin. Dietary toxicity is not a practical concern for hamsters.
| Life Stage | Size | Min | Max | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult | — | 20 | 40 | mg/kg feed | Approximately 0.2-0.5mg per day. Adequately supplied by seeds, mealworms, and whole grains. |
Source: NRC 1995, general exotic pet veterinary consensus
