Hamsters

There are several suitable brushes that can be used for

your hamster, including a finger brush. This is a small

rubber brush that fits on your finger like a thimble.

Always brush the coat in the direction the hair lies.

If your hamster has long hair, ensure you hold the

hair below the knot and gently ease the knot with

small flicks of the brush. Do not tug, wrench, or pull

too hard or you may pull the hair out from the skin or

even tear the skin. If the knot or tangle is not being

moved easily, cut it away with a pair of curved surgi-

cal scissors. This needs to be done VERY carefully as

hamsters can wriggle and squirm and it is very easy

to cut the skin underneath. If in doubt, contact your

vet or an experienced hamster owner who may be

able to do this for you.

Start grooming the hamsters from an early age, per-

haps when it is enjoying a tasty treat, so that it learns

to relax and enjoy the attention.

Bathing

You should only bathe your hamster if it is absolutely

necessary. Hamsters lose heat very rapidly and if wet

they can very quickly have a dangerously low body

temperature. Most hamsters will never need a bath,

and you certainly should not give them one just for fun.

Hamsters