The proper ways to bathe a hamster mainly include the dry - bathing method and the wet - bathing method, with the dry - bathing method being the most commonly used.
Dry - bathing Method
Prepare Bathing Sand: Use bathing sand specifically designed for hamsters. Avoid using regular sand as it may contain harmful substances. You can purchase bathing sand at pet stores or online. Make sure to choose a reputable brand.
Select a Container: Choose a shallow tray or bowl. Ensure that the hamster can easily enter and roll around in it. The edges of the container should not be too high to facilitate the hamster's entry and exit.
Guide the Hamster into the Bathing Sand: Gently place the hamster into the bathing sand. Most hamsters will instinctively start rolling and digging, enjoying the sand bath. If a hamster doesn't know how to dig in the sand, gently sprinkle some bathing sand on its back. After repeating this several times, the hamster will learn to use the bathing sand for a bath.
Supervise and Clean: During the entire process, monitor the hamster's behavior to ensure it doesn't swallow the bathing sand. After the bath, take the hamster out of the bathing sand and brush off the excess sand from its body.
Wet - bathing Method
The wet - bathing method is less commonly used and is only employed when the hamster is extremely dirty or has a skin disease.
Prepare Warm Water: Use warm water (about 30 - 35°C). Make sure the water temperature is moderate, neither too hot nor too cold.
Gently Clean: Gently wipe the hamster's body with a damp cotton ball or soft cloth. Avoid getting water into its ears and nose. If necessary, use a small amount of unscented animal shampoo and then rinse it thoroughly with warm water.
Dry and Keep Warm: Gently dry the hamster with a soft towel to ensure it is completely dry. You can use a hair dryer (set on the low - heat setting) to help with quick drying, but keep it at a certain distance to avoid overheating. Immediately put the hamster back into a warm and dry cage after the bath to prevent it from getting cold.
Precautions
Avoid Using Water: Unless in extremely special circumstances (such as skin problems or severe contamination), and this should be done under the guidance of a veterinarian. A water bath may cause the hamster to catch a cold, get sick, or experience severe stress reactions.
Supervise and Clean: Monitor the hamster's behavior throughout the process to ensure it doesn't swallow the bathing sand or shampoo.
Environmental Requirements: Ensure the cage is warm and dry to prevent the hamster from getting cold.