Hamsters can bite people. The situations in which hamsters usually bite are as follows:
Being Touched When Unaware: Hamsters are highly alert. If they are suddenly touched when they are unprepared or sleeping, they may bite back as a way of self-defense.
Being Nervous: When hamsters have just moved to a new environment or feel threatened, they will become extremely nervous. At this time, they are most likely to be provoked and then bite people.
Smelling Food on Hands: If hamsters smell the scent of hamster food on people's hands, they may mistake the hands for food and take a bite.
Being Hungry: When hamsters are hungry, they may also mistake a person's finger for food and bite it.
Being Curious: Hamsters are extremely curious. They will bite things that they are interested in.
Having a Traumatic Experience in Childhood: In unregulated pet stores, hamsters may have a poor living environment or a lack of food, which can lead to their irritable temperaments and unfriendly natures. Such hamsters are prone to biting people.
After being bitten by a hamster, the following considerations should be taken regarding whether vaccination is needed:
Rabies Risk: Hamsters are not common carriers of rabies. However, if there is a possibility of exposure to the rabies virus, there is a risk of transmission. Nevertheless, if a domestic hamster bite does not cause symptoms such as broken skin or bleeding, usually there is no need to get a rabies vaccination.
Tetanus Risk: After being bitten, if the wound is deep or seriously contaminated, it may increase the risk of tetanus. The doctor may recommend getting a tetanus vaccination or tetanus antitoxin.
Bacterial Infection: A hamster's mouth may carry bacteria, and a bite may lead to a bacterial infection. If the wound gets infected, antibiotic treatment may be required.
Overall, although hamsters can bite, in most cases it is out of self-defense or misunderstanding. After being bitten, one should seek medical attention promptly according to the condition of the wound and consult the doctor about whether vaccination is needed.