Hamsters are very delicate animals, so they need the right kind of care to stay happy and healthy.
Taking care of a hamster properly means knowing what they need and avoiding some common mistakes that can harm them or make them unhappy.
I often see people on social media making mistakes in hamster care.
It’s important to be aware of these mistakes so you can avoid making them yourself.
Even small errors can lead to big problems for these tiny creatures, so being informed is the first step to becoming a great hamster owner.
Things Not to Do with Hamsters
Here are some common mistakes to avoid when taking care of a hamster:
Bathing Your Hamster
Hamsters should not be given water baths.
They clean themselves naturally, and water can make them sick because hamsters are not good at regulating their body temperature, and getting wet can make them catch a cold.
Instead of water, give them a sand bath to help keep their fur clean.
Hamsters love rolling around in sand, and it’s a natural way for them to stay clean without the risk of getting sick.
Grabing Them by the scruff
Don’t grab your hamster by the scruff or from above, as it can scare them.
Hamsters are prey animals, so sudden movements or rough handling can make them feel very stressed and scared.
This kind of stress can lead to biting or other defensive behavior.
Please scoop them up gently with both hands or let them climb into your palm so they feel safe.
Always approach your hamster slowly and give them time to recognize you before picking them up. The more comfortable they feel, the more they will trust you.
Taking Away the Exercise Wheel
Some people say things like, “The noise from my hamster running at night was too loud, so I removed the exercise wheel.”
However, the exercise wheel is an essential source of exercise for hamsters, so please do not take it away.
Hamsters are very active and need exercise to stay healthy. Their exercise wheel is extremely important for both their physical health and their mental happiness. If they don’t have a wheel, they can get bored, stressed, or even become overweight.
Always make sure they have a properly sized wheel that they can run on comfortably. A good wheel will help keep your hamster fit and provide them with the activity they need.
Letting Them Roam Outside
Letting hamsters roam outside is very dangerous.
They can be attacked by predators like cats or birds, eat poisonous plants, or get too cold or hot, which can make them very sick.
Instead, let them play in a safe, enclosed area indoors where you can supervise them. This way, they can explore and have fun without the risk of getting hurt. Make sure the play area is escape-proof and free from anything they could chew that might be dangerous.
Feeding Them the Harmful Human Foods
Some human foods, like chocolate, garlic, onions, and citrus fruits, are poisonous to hamsters.
Even foods that seem safe can be harmful if they have too much sugar, salt, or fat.
Hamsters have very sensitive digestive systems, and the wrong foods can make them sick very quickly.
Stick to hamster-safe fruits, vegetables, and good-quality pellets made for hamsters.
Always research before giving your hamster a new type of food to make sure it is safe for them to eat.
Feeding Them Too Many Sunflower Seeds
Hamsters love sunflower seeds, but they are high in fat.
If they eat too many, they can become overweight, which can lead to health problems like diabetes and heart disease.
Give sunflower seeds only as a treat and make sure your hamster’s diet includes other healthy foods, like fresh vegetables and high-quality hamster pellets.
Variety is key to keeping your hamster healthy, and treats should be given in moderation.
Conclusion
Please avoid these common mistakes to keep your hamster healthy and happy!
By understanding their needs and avoiding these pitfalls, you can make sure your hamster has a long, healthy, and happy life.
