The potential harms of keeping a hamster as a pet mainly include the following aspects:
Allergic Reactions: The hair, dander, urine, etc. of hamsters may cause allergic reactions. Symptoms may include sneezing, runny nose, itchy eyes, and itchy skin.
Transmission of Infectious Diseases: Hamsters may carry viruses and bacteria, such as Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV), Salmonella, etc., which can be transmitted to humans through contact, causing symptoms like fever, headache, and diarrhea.
Parasite Infections: Hamsters may carry external parasites such as fleas, lice, mites, etc. These parasites will bite people, causing symptoms such as itchy and swollen skin, and in severe cases, may lead to allergic reactions or other diseases.
Bacterial Infections: Hamsters may carry Listeria, Salmonella, etc. After coming into contact with contaminated hamsters or their living environments, one may get infected with these bacteria, resulting in symptoms such as fever, headache, nausea, and vomiting.
Viral Infections: Hamsters may carry Lymphocytic Choriomeningitis Virus (LCMV), Hemorrhagic Fever Virus, etc. After humans are infected, they may experience symptoms such as fever, headache, and muscle pain.
Risk of Bites: Hamsters are rather wild and highly aggressive. They are prone to bite when in close contact, and a bite may lead to wound infection.
Mental Stress: Taking care of hamsters for a long time may cause mental stress to the owner, especially when one is busy with work or study. One needs to arrange time reasonably.
Environmental Hygiene Problems: The living environment of hamsters needs to be cleaned regularly. Otherwise, bacteria may breed, affecting household hygiene and air quality.
Preventive Measures:
Maintain Hygiene: Clean the living environment of hamsters regularly to avoid the breeding of bacteria and parasites.
Take Prompt Precautions: Wash your hands before and after touching hamsters to avoid direct contact with their excretions and secretions.
Conduct Allergy Tests: People with a history of allergies to pets should undergo allergy tests to avoid allergic reactions.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly: When experiencing uncomfortable symptoms, seek medical attention promptly to avoid the aggravation of the condition.
By taking the above measures, the health risks associated with keeping a hamster can be effectively reduced.