Are cotton balls edible for hamsters?

Question
I just cleaned my hamsters cage out and put cotton balls in for comfort, and she's had them in there before. However, this time, she ate half of one! She normally arranges them to what suites her best, but this time she stuffed it in her cheek pouch and it was gone soon after. What should I do?

Answer
Hi Kristy, cotton balls are not the best thing to put in hamster cages as when the cotton is processed they use all sorts of chemicals and bleaches to clean and prepare it for use and as hamsters are quite sensitive little creatures it can be quite dangerous if eaten. however, it is unlikely that she did eat it, she just probably just put it in her mouth to move it when she was ready. keep an eye on her over the next few days for any signs of discomfort, or her not eating or drinking, if you are still concerned pop her to your vet for a check over. Hope this helps, Jen