How to Give Your Hamster a Sand Bath

Hamsters have a noticeable odor that causes many owners to bathe them like any other pets, with soap and water. This action is potentially dangerous and could lead to a life-threatening drop in the animal̵7;s body temperature. Using soap and water also strips the hamster̵7;s coat of the oils that protect it and provide it with a natural sheen. Sand bathing is a safe way to allow the hamster to clean itself.

Things You'll Need

  • Shallow bowl
  • 1 cup chinchilla sand
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Instructions

    • 1

      Fill a shallow bowl with 1 cup chinchilla sand. Set the bowl inside the hamster̵7;s cage away from its food and water supply.

    • 2

      Set the hamster in the bowl, and allow it to explore the sand. Eventually, the hamster will roll around and play in the bowl, cleaning its fur in the sand without removing its essential oils.

    • 3

      Remove the bowl after the hamster bathes itself. You can leave the bowl inside the cage permanently, but check it frequently to ensure the hamster doesn̵7;t turn it into a litter box.