Top 10 Hazards to Avoid in Hamster Care: A Beginner's G

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What to Avoid When Keeping Hamsters

1. Avoid Feeding Human Food

Human food, rich in oils, salts, and additives, can be detrimental to hamsters. It burdens their metabolism and can significantly impact their health. Therefore, it's crucial not to feed your hamster human food during the breeding period.

2. Keep Hamsters Out of Direct Sunlight

Hamsters are not wellequipped to handle heat. Prolonged exposure to sunlight or high temperatures can lead to heatstroke. In the summer, ensure your hamster's habitat is wellventilated and cool to prevent discomfort and potential health issues.

3. Do Not Bathe Hamsters in Water

Hamsters are not suitable for water baths due to their dense and fine fur. Wet fur takes a long time to dry, which can lead to colds—a serious concern for these little creatures. Instead, provide bath sand for their regular cleaning needs.

4. Never Give Hamsters Raw Water

Unfiltered tap water contains chlorine, which can cause "chlorine poisoning" in hamsters. Always provide your hamster with cooled, boiled water to stay healthy.

5. Avoid Housing Multiple Hamsters Together

Despite their cute appearance, hamsters are quite territorial. Keeping them in the same cage can lead to fights. It's best to keep them singly to avoid conflicts and ensure their wellbeing.

6. Maintain a Quiet Living Environment

Hamsters are quite shy and sensitive to noise. Keep their habitat in a quiet area to prevent stress and potential health problems caused by sudden scares.

7. Do Not Use Recycled Paper as Bedding

Good bedding is essential for warmth, cleanliness, and odor control. Avoid using recycled paper like newspapers, as they have poor absorbency and insulation, which can lead to a smelly cage.

8. Choose a Spacious Cage

Hamsters need room for water bottles, food bowls, nests, and exercise wheels. Opt for a larger cage to provide ample space for movement and exercise. This not only keeps them healthy but also prevents obesity, which can be harmful to their hearts and lifespan.

These are some key dos and don'ts for hamster care. We hope this guide helps new hamster owners. Lastly, if you already have a cat, especially a feisty one, it's not advisable to keep a hamster. Cats can easily scare them, leading to stress and potential harm.

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