Unfortunately, not all products sold in pet stores are safe for hamsters. Even ones that are advertised as safe can be harmful. Always do your own research if you are unsure about a product’s safety.
Oxbow Essentials Hamster and Gerbil Food: Timothy hay based, which is not part of a hamster’s diet. It’s low in protein, lacks nutrients, and you will actually starve your hamster feeding them this food.
Cedar, Pine, and Softwood bedding: These contain a chemical called phenol which is naturally occurring in these woods. It’s what makes them smell nice and act as a natural bug repellent, but it is also harmful to hamsters and other small animals.
Fluffy cotton and wool type bedding: Often sold in pet stores as a soft and safe nesting material for small animals, however it is not safe in the slightest. This material can cause intestinal blockages and even death. Some types with longer fibers can even get wrapped around limbs or teeth and stress out the hamster which is not good for their overall health.
Wire Wheels: Dangerous because hamsters can catch feet and toes in the gaps, which can result in broken limbs and other injuries. It can also cause a painful condition called bumblefoot.
Snak Shak Products: Made of compressed sawdust mixed with honey and other flavors to make them appealing. Ingesting this could cause serious damage to the intestinal track if swallowed, including issues such as blockage or rectal prolapse.
Sand Dust: The small particles in this type of sand are very dangerous to a hamster’s respiratory system.
Mineral and Salt Licks: These have calcium that is not necessary, and actually dangerous for a hamster’s kidneys. Hamsters do not require extra nutrients if they are fed a proper diet.
Hamster balls: Hamsters rely heavily on their smell and hearing to navigate, and hamster balls diminish these senses, thus increasing the hamster’s stress. The small air holes do not provide enough air for your hamster either, adding to stress, and are also areas that toes can get caught.
