Hamsters love sand, and there’s no question about it. However, you cannot just offer any sand to your hamsters since certain types of sand can put them at risk for injuries. Vita-sand is one ordinary pet sand that many hamster owners think of using, but is it safe for hamsters?
Vita-Sand is not safe for hamsters as it contains added calcium. Sand with added calcium tends to clump up into tiny choking hazards that can potentially damage a hamster’s respiratory system. Sands that are safe for hamsters include no added calcium, dyes, fragrances, or other additives.
Aside from reptile sand, I’ll also tell you other types of sand you can get for your hamsters and which ones you should avoid. I’ll also discuss why it’s essential to give your hamsters sand and how to prepare sand baths for them properly.
Why Do Hamsters Need Sand?
Hamsters need sand to clean themselves. Unlike humans, hamsters should avoid getting wet and thus, cannot bathe in water. So, in their natural habitat, hamsters roll around in the sand to rid themselves of dirt and grease. The sand will also exfoliate and absorb excess oils from their coat.
In short, bathing in the sand is the only way for hamsters to clean their fur thoroughly. Without sand baths, your hamsters will become dirty and smelly.
For that reason, you should provide your hamsters with regular sand baths. That way, their fur will stay clean, healthy, and free from parasites.
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Why Can’t Hamsters Get Wet?
Hamsters can’t get wet since water can strip the oils from a hamster’s coat. As a result, it will lose its insulating properties, leaving the hamster exposed to the elements. Moreover, the hamster will also become more susceptible to various diseases and skin problems.
Furthermore, these small rodents originally came from dry and warm areas, such as dunes, steppes, and deserts. So, if you live in colder states, such as New York and Minnesota, your hamster can easily catch a cold when its fur gets wet.
Should You Ever Bathe Hamsters With Water?
You should never bathe your hamster with water unless something toxic is on your pet’s fur. Water is not beneficial for hamsters’ coats, but if there is something more dangerous than water in their fur, such as cleaning chemicals or hazardous pests, you may have to scrub it off.
So, generally speaking, you should never bathe your hamster in water.
That said, there’s always an exception to the rule. Experts say that you’re allowed to bathe your hamster in water in emergencies. For example, if there’s something dangerous stuck on its coat.
However, even then, you should use as little water as possible and a