The concept of a hamster bite may conjure up images of cute little rodents nibbling on their owners’ fingers. But while these critters are generally quite mellow, they have been known to bite. If this happens to you, you may wonder if hamster bites are dangerous.
Hamster bites are generally not something to worry about, but that’s not to say they can’t hurt. They have sharp teeth and strong bites, which can be painful. However, some hamsters may carry bacteria in their mouths that can cause an infection if their bite breaks a person’s skin.
To prevent hamster bites, you should handle them with care. In this article, I’ll discuss why hamsters might bite and if a hamster bite can make you sick.
Can You Get Sick From a Hamster Bite?
If you ever get bit by a hamster, you might wonder if you can get sick. You can get an infection if a hamster bites you, even if it’s not overly common. While hamsters may not seem dangerous, their sharp teeth can puncture the skin and allow viruses such as Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus.
Similar to a cat or dog bite, if you get bit by a hamster and the wound is deep, it can lead to an infection that requires antibiotic treatment. Clean the wound as soon as possible to reduce the risk of disease.
The bites can also cause allergic reactions. Those with a known allergy to animals, such as cats and dogs, should be cautious when handling hamsters. People with allergies may experience symptoms such as difficulty breathing and a rash on the skin.
If you have allergies, it’s best to avoid handling hamsters because their saliva and fur may cause an allergic reaction. When a hamster bites, the results may be even more severe.
Why Do Hamsters Bite?
Hamsters are generally docile creatures and will rarely bite if handled correctly, but there are a few reasons why they may do so, including:
- Fear. Hamsters are vulnerable animals easily startled by loud noises or sudden movements. If a hamster feels threatened, it will likely bite to protect itself. Also, if a hamster feels uncomfortable with its surroundings, it will likely bite.
- Territorial behavior. When a hamster feels like its space is threatened, it may lash out with a bite. Hamsters are territorial and mark their territory by scent. When they sense something strange or unfamiliar in their environment, they may bite to defend it. This could be an object like a toy, an animal, or another hamster.
- Pain. Hamsters are naturally timid animals, so discomfort or pain can make them lash out and bite. If the hamster is experiencing pain, such as from an injury or illness, it may try to defend itself by biting. Check for signs of pain, and take the hamster to a vet if needed.
- Hunger. Hamsters can become irritable if not fed the right amount each day, leading to more aggressive behavior such as biting. If your hamster exhibits this behavior, ensure you provide it with the right food. An excellent way to ensure your hamster is getting enough food is to provide a variety of healthy snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and grains. Also, make sure your hamster has access to fresh water at all times.
- Teething. Young hamsters, much like young puppies and kittens, go through a teething phase. During this period, they may bite more than normal as they explore their environment and test their teeth. Provide your hamster with chew toys to help them satisfy the teething instinct, and avoid handling them too much during this period.
How Serious is a Hamsters Bite?
Hamsters bite by clamping down on their prey with incisor teeth that are very sharp and can cause a lot of pain and leave open wounds that can get infected. The teeth marks may also be accompanied by a scratch, as hamsters have nails that they use to help them grip things. For example, hamsters may draw a small amount of blood if their teeth break the skin and nip at their owners during play or when it feels threatened.
A nip is a quick bite with no real force behind it, typically less severe than a complete bite, and may not draw any blood or break the skin. Nipping generally doesn’t lead to the same consequences as a large bite, but you should still ensure your hamster doesn’t use their teeth on you.
Infections You May Contract From Hamster Bites
It is possible to contract an infection from a hamster bite. The most common infection is LCMV (Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus), which you can get through contact with the saliva or urine of an infected hamster. Possible symptoms can include
- Fevers
- Muscle pain
- Upset Stomach
- In rare cases, meningitis.
Left untreated, LCMV can cause severe neurological problems, including seizures and death.
In addition, there have been cases of other rare diseases like Tulmeria from hamster bites. Although far less common, it’s something to consider when handling a hamster.
Final Thoughts
The bites from a hamster are not typically dangerous, and you can usually treat them at home. However, if the wound becomes infected or symptoms of LCMV appear, seek medical attention immediately.
It is critical to take proper safety precautions when handling hamsters and be mindful of their needs. Proper care can help ensure your hamster feels safe and secure, reducing the likelihood of a bite.