A hamster is a small, typically long-legged, quadruped mammal. They are typically named for their ham-shaped TNT. However, there are many different types of hamsters, so you cannot just call your hamster by this name!
Typically, hamsters are social and intelligent animals. When isolated, they may be forced to utilize a hobby or tool to get the attention it needs. This can be difficult when you have two copies of this animal!
Handling an immature or unplanned baby Hamster is not recommended due to the risk of urinary tract infection and possible histoplasma capsular compression. Thankfully, non-urinary tract infections are the exception rather than the rule with babies.
The best way to care for a baby Hamster is to slowly introduce it to its surroundings and reduce stress as you do so.
Why would I use cat litter for my hamster?
There are several reasons you could use cat litter for your hamster. These include: saving it the wheel, eliminating possible allergies, accomplishing a hamster habitat, and creating a pen for it to wheel in.
Saving the Wheel
If you have a large wheel that your hamster would like to climb, you can put some cat litter in its hopper and let it work with it. It will need to be updated often, though as hamsters grow and/or change what they need.
Albinos do not use any sort of litter box so if you have a duty-free area at the airport, you can create a fenced-in area for your albino to get away from home. Just make sure it is secure so it does not escape!
An efficient habitat is key when trying to create an environment for your hamster.
Reasons not to use cat litter for your hamster
While most people think of a hamster as a little baby hamster, it is not recommended to put one in a litter box until it is at about half the size of the typical hamster.
This is due to the fact that when an adult hamster tries to use the litter box, it can end up in an awkward position with its legs stuck in the container and its tail on the floor. This can be disastrous as it would have to sit there all day while friends and neighbors cleaned up its mess!
The other issue is that while some species of hamsters live several months, others do not. The ones that do not may not survive long after birth because they are in such a difficult position to sit and use the litter box.
What should I use instead?
If you are looking to change up your hamster’s diet, do not use fresh fruits and vegetables! These items may be too sweet or fresh, may not be available to your hamster in their cage or habitat.
Instead, you can find many different products that are made for them. Some of these include:
Vegetables such as potatoes and carrots . These are supreme for helping with muscle development and building up your hamster’s weight.
such as . These are supreme for helping with muscle development and building up your hamster’s weight. Soups made from vegetables such as carrots , peas, and spinach . This may help with digestion as well as providing enough nutrition for your hamster.
such as , . This may help with digestion as well as providing enough nutrition for your hamster. Human foods such as dried fruit or nuts . These may help with getting some fiber into the system.
Is there another animal friendly alternative?
Many people are curious about alternative animal friendly litter. Many people have trouble finding all-natural litter that does not smell like fish or meat. So, people have started to research other alternatives such as cat litter, small doggie litter, and human toilet tissue.
All of these substances have unique properties and can be used for many things. Some people even use them for humans’ faces and bodies!
Whether you choose a low-calorie alternative, an effective treatment for your Annoyance or Acne, or an entirety of all three, there are plenty of benefits. Most show great success in reducing hair and waste production as well as skin irritation.
What about the smell?
Most people notice the smell of the cat litter as sort of a foul smell. This is because most commercial litters have a high concentrations of hydrogen peroxide in them to clean your hamster’s cage.
This makes sense as it will clean her environment and make her feel more comfortable! You are washing her with that product, so she must like it!
Some brands don’t have the same smell, so look for a solid color cat litter. Either use only one type of litter or find one with less specific names. For example, regular old toilet paper would likely not work as a replacement.
Either way, you will need to teach your hamster how to use the litter box so this does not happen.
Will the cat litter hurt my hamster?
While many people associate hamsters with a dark, dank environment, there are many environments in which they thrive. Hamsters are very social animals and enjoy being in the company of others.
If you have a designated area for your hamster to move its food and water, then you have done something right. A Hamster is a very healthy pet as they do not get fussy or need special foods often.
If you feed your hamster plain old chicken or beef broth, it does not need to be supplemented with any special ingredients. Most people forget that an average-sized human can’s heart-rate can be low when he or she has nothing else to do.
Hamsters like to climb and it is easy to let them out of reach if they get stuck.
What are the alternatives to using cat litter?
Neither plain old commercial cat litter, nor any other type of litter will work for a hamster. The main reason that these type of rodents cannot use plain old human waste is because it is too wet!
Human feces will turn into a heavy, luxurious travel bedding dish that is very hard to get rid of. You will have to deal with it for the rest of your life!
Another big problem with using ordinary human feces is that it can contain chemicals that your hamster does not want to poop out. Unless you totally isolate your hamster in a separate room, these chemicals will come back and forth between the two.
It is much better to use something that is either animal-safe, or has minimal ingredients (some are animal-based). An example of this would be playing with my hamster’s waste instead of giving her treats.
Can I use dog waste for my hamster?
If you are looking into the possibility of adding a hamster to your family, you should consider using dog waste in case you do not have a friend or family member to take care of your pet.
Many people with hamsters find that keeping tabs on them is an ongoing task. Once a week is usually the rule for cleaning their cage and giving them enrichment such as a bandanna to chew on.
Can’t keep track of how often your hamster needs water or food? Check out this article on setting up a water and food dispensing system for your hamster.
By adding some human waste and/or bird feed to their cage, you can give them some nutrients and feel like they are treating your home as a resource.
Known for her engaging storytelling and insightful articles,John's hamster blog has become a go-to resource for hamster lovers everywhere. Her ability to blend knowledge, creativity, and a touch of humor has earned her a loyal following of readers who eagerly anticipate her next post.
John's love for hamsters began in her childhood when she received her first pet hamster, Whiskers. Ever since that fateful day, her fascination with these tiny furballs has grown into a full-fledged obsession. She spends countless hours researching, experimenting, and observing hamster behavior to ensure that her writing is always backed by solid knowledge and firsthand experiences.
Through her blog,John strives to educate fellow hamster owners on the importance of providing proper care and a nurturing environment for these small creatures. She covers a wide range of topics, from choosing the right hamster species and setting up the perfect habitat to nutrition, health, and behavior training. Her tips and tricks are practical and easy to follow, ensuring that every hamster owner can give their pet the love and care it deserves.
John's writing not only caters to hamster enthusiasts but also serves as a valuable resource for those considering bringing a hamster into their lives. Her articles provide an in-depth understanding of the responsibilities and Joys of hamster ownership, helping prospective owners make informed decisions.
WhenJohn isn't busy writing or tending to her furry companions, she can often be found volunteering at local animal shelters and hamster rescue organizations. She firmly believes in the power of community and hopes to make a positive impact on the lives of as many hamsters as possible.
John's dedication to the well-being of hamsters and her ability to communicate her knowledge with passion and clarity have made her a respected authority in the hamster community. Her blog continues to inspire and educate, creating a stronger bond between humans and their adorable hamster friends.
FollowJohn on her hamster blog to embark on an exciting Journey into the world of hamsters, where love, care, and happiness come together to create unforgettable experiences.
