Let me tell y’all a little story about the time I adopted a hamster. I was convinced they were these tiny, delicate creatures that needed to be handled with kid gloves.
So, I went out and bought the fluffiest bedding, the smallest cage, and the tiniest wheel.
But, as it turns out, my little hammy was tougher than I gave him credit for. He was constantly escaping from his cage, and he absolutely loved gnawing on everything in sight. I came home one day to find him happily munching on the corner of my couch.
So, are hamsters easily hurt? The short answer is no, they’re not. But, there are a few things to keep in mind when it comes to their care and handling.
Hamsters are relatively hardy animals that can withstand a good amount of roughhousing and exploration.
Table of Contents
The Lowdown on Hamster Bones
Hamsters have tiny bones that are easily breakable, so it’s important to be gentle when picking them up and handling them.
But, don’t let that fool you into thinking they’re fragile. They’re actually pretty sturdy little critters that can handle a fair amount of play and exploration.
Just be sure to provide them with plenty of safe spaces to burrow and hide, as well as plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained.
What About Their Teeth?
Hamsters have constantly growing teeth, so it’s important to provide them with plenty of chew toys to gnaw on.
Otherwise, they’ll start gnawing on everything in sight, including (but not limited to) your furniture, shoes, and power cords. Trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way.
What to Watch Out For
While hamsters are hardy animals, there are a few things to watch out for. For example, they can get heat stroke if the temperature in their environment gets too hot, so be sure to keep them in a cool, well-ventilated area.
Additionally, they’re prone to certain health issues, such as tumors and dental problems, so it’s important to keep an eye out for any signs of illness and to take them to a vet if you suspect something is wrong.
FAQ
Q: Do I need to handle my hamster a lot?
A: Not necessarily. Hamsters are independent animals that are perfectly content to spend most of their time in their cage, as long as it’s properly set up with plenty of toys and activities.
However, it’s still a good idea to handle them occasionally to bond with them and to check for any signs of illness.
Q: Can I keep more than one hamster in the same cage?
A: It’s not recommended. Hamsters are solitary animals that can become aggressive towards each other if housed together. If you want more than one hamster, it’s best to keep them in separate cages.
Q: How often should I clean my hamster’s cage?
A: You should clean your hamster’s cage at least once a week, but more often if needed. This includes spot cleaning any soiled areas, changing the bedding, and washing the food and water dishes.
However, it’s important to not disturb their nest too much as they like to keep their living space clean.
My Final Whistle
In conclusion, hamsters may be small, but they’re definitely not fragile. They’re hardy, curious, and playful animals that can withstand a fair amount of roughhousing and exploration.
Just be sure to provide them with a safe and comfortable environment, and you’ll be rewarded with a happy and healthy hamster.
So, if you’re considering adopting a hamster, don’t be afraid to get your hands a little dirty. Just remember to handle them gently and provide them with plenty of toys and activities to keep them entertained.
And remember, don’t be like me and expect them to be delicate, they’re tougher than they look!