Can Hamsters Get Plague? A Comprehensive Guide

1. The bacterium responsible for plague is the Yersinia pestis, which is commonly found in domestic rats or brown rats. Hamsters do not carry the plague bacterium, meaning they are not capable of causing the disease. The bacterium is primarily transmitted by fleas, so it's crucial for owners to prevent their hamsters from getting fleas and to maintain a clean living environment for them.

2. It's important for pet owners to understand that hamsters are not born with diseases; they can only become ill if they are infected with a pathogen. Since pet hamsters are generally kept in cages, they are unlikely to contract serious diseases, let alone the plague.

3. Many people are wary of touching hamsters due to the misconception that they might carry the plague. However, there's no need to wear gloves when handling them, as they rarely bite and are generally quite gentle. Nonetheless, it's essential to be aware that while hamsters do not carry the plague bacterium, they do harbor many bacteria, like most mammals. After petting a hamster, it's important to wash your hands before eating, and it's also advisable to wash your hands before handling the hamster to prevent the transfer of bacteria.

4. If you are bitten by a hamster, there's no need to panic. If there's a bleeding wound, gently squeeze out any clotted blood, then wash the wound with soap and water or saline solution. Afterward, apply a small amount of alcohol to disinfect the area. If you're unable to care for the wound yourself, it's best to seek medical attention or receive a tetanus shot. Rest assured, rodents like hamsters typically do not carry rabies, so there's no need to worry about that.

5. Although hamsters do not carry rabies and are unlikely to carry the plague bacterium, they can still harbor other pathogens. Therefore, it's important to maintain a safe distance when interacting with them to prevent bites. Additionally, keep the living environment clean to reduce the risk of your hamster contracting any diseases.

Should you be concerned about the possibility of your hamster carrying the plague, it's not a bad idea to have it checked by a veterinarian for peace of mind. To ensure your hamster's health, always purchase from reputable pet stores.