I. Hamsters Should Never Be Bathed in Water
A hamster’s physical structure means water baths are completely unsuitable for them. The main reasons are as follows:
1. Risk of Hypothermia
Hamsters are small (weighing 30–100 grams), and their soaked fur cannot dry quickly. This easily causes a sudden drop in body temperature, leading to colds, pneumonia, or even sudden death.
2. Skin Damage
Water baths strip the natural oil layer from a hamster’s skin, resulting in dryness, itching, hair loss, or fungal infections.
3. Stress Reactions
Hamsters are naturally afraid of water. A water bath may cause them to struggle violently or breathe rapidly; in severe cases, this stress can even lead to sudden death.
II. Correct Cleaning Method: Sand Bath (Dry Cleaning)
1. Choosing Bath Sand
Use specialized hamster bath sand (e.g., bentonite or volcanic ash bath sand).
Do not use regular sand, baby powder, or cat litter.
Pour 5–8 cm of bath sand into a shallow container.
2. Step-by-Step Operation
Place the sand container in the hamster’s cage; the hamster will roll around in the sand to clean itself (allow 10–15 minutes per session).
If the hamster does not know how to use the sand, gently sprinkle a small amount on its back to guide it.
3. Frequency Control
Healthy adult hamsters: 1–2 times per week.
Avoid using bath sand for baby hamsters, sick hamsters, or elderly hamsters.
III. Handling Special Situations
1. Local Dirt
Use a damp cotton swab or slightly wet towel to gently wipe the dirty area—do not get the entire body wet.
2. Stubborn Stains
For tough stains (e.g., honey, motor oil), a small amount of pet dry shampoo can be used locally. Be sure to prevent the hamster from ingesting it.
IV. Common Misconceptions
1. “Warm Water Is Safer”
Even warm water still causes hypothermia and stress.
2. “Blow-Drying with a Hair Dryer”
The noise and hot air from a hair dryer will intensify the hamster’s fear and may even cause shock.
Conclusion
Hamster cleaning should follow their natural habits. Bath sand is the safest and most effective method—water baths can be fatal.