Q&A for How to Build Hamster Toys out of Household Items

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Are popsicle sticks safe for a hamster?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Wooden popsicle sticks make an excellent construction material. You can make all sorts of different hamster buildings and toys. The wood is safe to chew and good for your hamster's teeth.

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Question

Do hamsters chew toilet paper?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

The cardboard liner from the center of a toilet roll makes a great chew toy for hamsters. If some paper is left on, the hamster may chew it, but it is unlikely to be harmful. The hamster may shred the paper as part of their nesting instinct, but he will not eat it as food.

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Question

How do I get my hamster to drink from her water bottle?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Hamsters drink on average around 10-20 ml of water a day (2 to 4 teaspoons worth). Most hamsters regulate their own water intake, and drink when thirsty. Leave the water bottle in easy reach and make sure that the dripper spout is working. When she's thirsty, she will drink from it. If she doesn't but is lively and well, it could be she is getting fluid in other ways, such as eating fresh fruit and vegetables.

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Question

It is safe to use a glue gun to make these fun projects?

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS
Veterinarian
Dr. Elliott, BVMS, MRCVS is a veterinarian with over 30 years of experience in veterinary surgery and companion animal practice. She graduated from the University of Glasgow in 1987 with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years.

Pippa Elliott, MRCVS

Veterinarian

Expert Answer

Yes. As a rule, glue gun adhesive is non-toxic, but be sure to check the outer packaging before using. There is a tiny risk of lumps of glue forming an impaction in the bowel, but this is rare. To be extra safe, use small amounts on non-exposed surfaces.

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