Hamster care for kids · 3 min read
Hamster safety rules
Hamsters are tiny and brave. That is a dangerous mix. These rules keep Potato safe.
Escape-proof
- Always close the lid or door. Hamsters are escape artists.
- Check for gaps. A dwarf hamster can squeeze through a hole the size of a coin.
- Never leave him on a table or bed alone. He will walk straight off the edge.
- If he escapes, put his home on the floor with the door open, plus a tube and some seeds. He often comes back at night.
Other pets
Cats and dogs are hunters. Even a friendly dog can hurt a hamster by accident.
Keep the door of the hamster room closed. Never let a cat sit on the home.
Not too hot, not too cold
Hamsters like it the way you like it: not sweaty, not shivery.
No sun on the home. No radiator right next to it. No cold windowsill in winter.
In a very cold room a hamster can go into a deep sleep that is dangerous. Ask a grown-up to keep the room warm.
Dangerous things
- Sweets, chocolate, onion, garlic, citrus fruit.
- House plants. Many are poisonous to hamsters.
- Wires. Hamsters chew wires. Never let him near cables.
- Water baths, hamster balls and fluffy cotton bedding.
- Being carried around the house or taken outside.
Potato's quick quiz
True or false? Tap to see the answer.
A hamster can squeeze through a hole the size of a coin.
True! Dwarf hamsters are tiny. Check every gap.
It is fine to let a hamster walk on the table if you watch him.
Nope. He can fall in a second. Always sit on the floor.
House plants are safe hamster snacks.
Nope. Many plants are poisonous. Keep them away.
Questions kids ask
My hamster escaped. What do I do?
Close all doors, put his home on the floor with the door open and seeds inside. Look behind furniture and check shoes. Tell a grown-up.
Can my hamster meet my dog?
No. Dogs and cats are hunters. Keep them in different rooms.
Can I take my hamster outside?
No. It is too scary and dangerous for a hamster. Outside is for people.