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

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.

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.

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.

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.