happy stinks .

Question
Hello Kelly,
I just want to ask why does my hamster stinks?

thanks,
Amy

Answer
Hi Amy,

It's most likely that your hamster's cage stinks, not the hamster itself.  Hamsters have very good hygeine.  (They're constantly cleaning themselves, somewhat like cats.)  However, if your hamster shows any sign of illness, such as lethargy, then the smell is probably an infection.  (Infections in all animals have strong smells.)  In that case, your hamster would need to go to the vet.

Otherwise, you're smelling your hamster's cage.  Be sure to clean the cage twice a week, using hand soap.  (Dish detergent smells too strongly and may irritate the hamster's respiratory system.)  Use either Aspen or Carefresh beddings.  (Carefresh bedding has the added benefit of being more absorbent, so any smells are less prominent.)  Make sure you avoid Pine and Cedar beddings, which are dangerous to small animals.

Also, you may want to "potty-train" your hamster.  Buy either unscented cat litter or hamster litter, and scoop some in the corner of the cage where your hamster urinates.  Then, with a plastic spoon, scoop up some of the hamster's droppings and some soiled bedding, and place that in the litter.  You may have to repeat this process a few times, but your hamster should soon take the hint and start using the bathroom in the litter.  Then, you can change the litter 3-4 times per week, which would cut down on cage cleanings.  (You could clean the cage once a week, instead of twice.)

Have a great week!

If you have any other questions, please feel free to ask :)

Kelly