TL;DR Summary No, hamsters and gerbils should not live together. Despite both being small rodents, hamsters and gerbils have very different social behaviors, dietary needs, and communication styles, which make cohabitation risky and potentially harmful to both animals. Hamsters are solitary and territorial, preferring to live alone, whereas gerbils are social creatures that thrive in…
Author: Vivian Whiskerson
Hamster Health: Is Parsley a Safe Choice?
TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can eat parsley, but it should be given in moderation as part of a balanced diet. Parsley is nutritionally beneficial, offering vitamins and minerals that can support a hamster’s health, such as vitamin A, C, and K, along with iron and calcium. However, it’s important to introduce parsley slowly to avoid…
The Whole Seed Story: Can Hamsters Have Sunflower Seeds?
TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can eat sunflower seeds, but they should be given in moderation due to their high-fat content. Sunflower seeds are nutritious, offering proteins, vitamins E and B, and minerals beneficial to hamsters, but overfeeding can lead to obesity and nutritional imbalances. Treat your hamster to a couple of seeds every other day,…
Uncovering the Truth: Can Hamsters’ Eyes Really Fall Out?
TL;DR Summary No, hamsters cannot intentionally make their eyes fall out. However, they can suffer from a condition known as eye proptosis, where the eye may bulge or protrude abnormally, which can sometimes lead to the eye becoming dislodged from the socket due to severe trauma or pressure from underlying health issues. It’s a rare…
Can Hamsters Munch on Watermelon Rind Safely?
TL;DR Summary Hamsters can technically eat watermelon rind, but it’s not straightforward. If you choose to give your hamster watermelon rind, it must be organic, thoroughly washed, and the hard green outer layer removed. Serve only the white part in tiny, hamster-bite-sized pieces and in extreme moderation—no more than once a week and in very…
Tropical Temptation: Is Mango on the Menu for Hamsters?
TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can enjoy mango as an occasional treat, but it must be offered in moderation due to its high sugar content. A small cube (no larger than a cubic centimeter) every couple of weeks is sufficient. Always ensure the mango is fresh, properly washed, and peeled to avoid any health risks. Introduce…
Naptime Nooks: Designing the Perfect Hamster Sleeping Quarters
Hello, fellow hamster enthusiasts! Dr. Vivian Whiskerson here, your guide to all things small and furry. Today, we’re diving into the soft, fluffy world of hamster sleeping quarters. Creating a cozy nook for your furry friend isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s essential for their health and happiness. Let’s burrow into the importance of crafting the…
The Great Noodle Debate: Is Spaghetti Safe for Hamsters?
TL;DR Summary No, hamsters should not eat spaghetti. Spaghetti is made from wheat, which contains gluten that hamsters have difficulty digesting, and it’s often cooked with ingredients like salt, garlic, and onions that are toxic to hamsters. Feeding hamsters spaghetti can lead to health issues such as digestive distress, obesity, and nutritional imbalances. Instead, provide…
Hamster Houdinis: Understanding and Curbing Escape Behaviors
Hello, fellow hamster enthusiasts! Dr. Vivian Whiskerson here, your guide to the fascinating world of hamsters. Today, we’re diving into a topic that has perplexed many a hamster parent: Hamster Houdinis. These tiny escape artists can squeeze through the smallest of gaps, turning your home into their adventure playground. But why do they do it,…
The Bony Truth: Uncovering Hamster Anatomy
TL;DR Summary: Yes, hamsters do have bones. Their skeletal system, comprising hundreds of bones, is crucial for their physical support, movement, and overall health. This system allows them the flexibility to burrow and squeeze through tight spaces. Understanding the hamster’s anatomy, including their bone structure, is essential for proper care. A balanced diet, safe environment,…