Like all rodents, a hamster’s incisors keep growing throughout their lifetime. Therefore, sometimes it can be crucial to provide them with something to chew on or gnaw to help them wear down their ever-growing teeth. However, contrary to popular belief, not any rigid, durable material will do.
You can give your hamster non-toxic wood, seagrass, sisal, cardboard, and toys to chew on. Additionally, you may want to consider a variety of chews, including pellets. However, these products should not contain any food ingredient or chemical that is unsafe for a hamster.
Keep in mind that hamsters, like humans, have their own wants and preferences. This means that the same chewing toy that a previous pet might have loved might not be of much interest to a new hamster. Therefore, keep reading to learn more about finding some of the safest objects and materials for your hamster to chew on.
What Can Hamsters Chew On?
Hamsters can chew on natural wood sticks, walnuts, seagrass and sisal toys, pellets, and cardboard. However, steer away from anything that may contain parasites or bugs (like a twig from your backyard). Additionally, don’t give your hamster any plastic toys.
There are three types of gnawing materials you can give to your hamster:
- Natural food with a hard shell.
- Readymade hamster chews or toys.
- Repurposed household items.
If you live in the US, you’re probably just a short drive away from the nearest pet store, most of which sell chews and toys for hamsters. Besides, you can shop online.
In the following sections, I’ll list some widely available, inexpensive, and safe items that your hamster can blissfully chew on.
Whole Walnut
Your hamster will likely go hammer and tongs on one who