Category: Q&A

TL;DR Summary No, hamsters should not swim. While they can instinctively paddle in water if necessary, swimming is not a natural or safe activity for them. Hamsters originate from dry areas where swimming isn’t required for survival, and their bodies are not designed for it. Forced swimming can cause significant stress, cold stress, and even…

TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can safely enjoy zucchini as part of their diet. Zucchini is non-toxic to hamsters and offers hydration and essential nutrients like potassium and vitamins. However, it should be introduced gradually and in small amounts to avoid digestive upset. Always use organic or thoroughly washed zucchini to minimize pesticide exposure. Feed zucchini…

TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can safely enjoy walnuts as an occasional treat in their diet. However, it’s important to serve walnuts in small, manageable pieces and ensure they are unsalted and unflavored to avoid health risks. While walnuts provide beneficial nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids and protein, they should be given sparingly due to their…

TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can have rice, but it should be offered in moderation. Rice is safe for hamsters when it’s cooked and plain, without any added salt, spices, or flavorings. While it provides a quick source of energy due to its carbohydrate content, rice lacks essential nutrients and does not offer a balanced diet…

TL;DR Summary Yes, hamsters can eat pasta in moderation. Both cooked and uncooked pasta are safe when plain and unseasoned. Pasta provides carbohydrates for energy but lacks essential nutrients, so it should only be an occasional treat. Offer small portions, about the size of a fingernail, once or twice a week. Always monitor your hamster…

TL;DR Summary If your hamster’s eyes are closed, it could be due to normal sleep habits, as these creatures are often active at night and rest during the day. However, if they’re keeping their eyes shut during their usual active hours, it could signal health issues like eye infections, irritation from dust or bedding, allergies,…

TL;DR Summary Covering your hamster’s cage during the day can help mimic the dark, quiet environment they naturally seek for sleep. However, it’s important to ensure the cover is made of breathable material to allow for proper ventilation and to prevent overheating. A partial cover may be best to provide both shade and air flow….

TL;DR Summary Hamsters do not intentionally harm themselves. The misconception that they can engage in self-harm arises from misinterpreting their natural behaviors or responses to stress, inadequate living conditions, or illness. It’s crucial to provide hamsters with a spacious and enriching environment, understand their solitary nature, and ensure they have proper nutrition and exercise. Recognizing…

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…

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…