Hamsters are beloved small pets favored by many families, especially children. However, like other animals, hamsters can still bite when they feel threatened. So, is hamster biting harmful? How should it be treated? Let’s find out.
Is Hamster Biting Harmful?
The question “Is hamster biting harmful?” is a common one. Here are the risks associated with being bitten by a hamster:
- Rabies: Although the probability is very low, rabies is still a notable risk when bitten by animals. Rabies is a dangerous infectious disease caused by a virus that attacks the nervous system and almost always leads to death if not treated promptly. Fortunately, hamsters and most rodents have a low risk of carrying the rabies virus.
- Infections: The mouth of a hamster, like that of other animals, contains many bacteria. When biting, these bacteria can enter the wound, causing an infection. Some infections that may occur include cellulitis, tetanus, or even lymphadenitis. Infection becomes more dangerous if the person bitten has a weak immune system or has not been fully vaccinated.
- Pain and Swelling: The normal reaction of the body to a wound is redness and pain, the severity of which depends on the seriousness of the bite. If the swelling and pain persist or if signs of infection such as pus are present, immediate medical attention is necessary.
The normal reaction of the body to a wound is redness and pain, the severity of which depends on the seriousness of the bite
How to Treat a Hamster Bite Wound
First Aid for the Wound
- Clean the wound thoroughly under running water with antibacterial soap for 10-15 minutes.
- Use physiological saline solution or antiseptic solution such as Povidone to rinse the wound to remove any bacteria.
- Gently pat the wound dry with clean gauze and then bandage it with sterile gauze.
When to See a Doctor
- If the bite is deep, bleeding heavily, or cannot be controlled.
- If signs of infection are present: swelling, warmth, redness, increasing pain, pus, fever, etc.
- If the person bitten has other underlying medical conditions or has not been fully vaccinated (especially against tetanus).
Preventing Hamster Bites
To minimize the risk of being bitten by a hamster, you should:
- Understand hamster behavior: Hamsters are shy animals and may bite as a defensive behavior.
- Avoid startling hamsters, especially when they are sleeping or eating.
- Handle gently: Stroke hamsters gently, avoid suddenly reaching into their cage or any threatening behavior.
- Supervise young children: Teach children how to interact with hamsters safely, not to poke or hurt them.
Commonly Asked Questions about “is hamster biting harmful”
Should I get vaccinated after being bitten by a hamster?
Vaccination against tetanus is necessary. For rabies, vaccination depends on the assessment of the doctor based on the severity of the bite, the condition of the hamster, etc.
For rabies, vaccination depends on the assessment of the doctor based on the severity of the bite, the condition of the hamster, etc.
Why do hamsters bite?
Hamsters often bite when they feel scared, stressed, defending their territory, or in pain due to illness.
Although being bitten by a hamster can pose some health issues, most bite wounds are not too serious. Understanding how to handle, prevent, and when to seek medical help will make you more confident in caring for your pet hamster. Remember, the best way to avoid bites is to build a good relationship with your hamster.
Although being bitten by a hamster can pose some health issues, most bite wounds are not too serious
Scientific Evidence about “is hamster biting harmful”
Here are evidence about “is hamster biting harmful“:
Risk of infection:
A study by the University of Medicine and Pharmacy Ho Chi Minh City showed that 25% of hamster bites contain dangerous bacteria such as Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pneumoniae. The National Children’s Hospital reported many cases of severe infections in children after being bitten by hamsters.
Handling bite wounds:
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends washing animal bite wounds with soap and water for at least 15 minutes. The CDC recommends getting vaccinated against tetanus after being bitten by a hamster, especially if you have not been fully vaccinated.
The article has provided information about “Is hamster biting harmful?” and related knowledge. Hopefully, it will be helpful to you.
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Kiểm Duyệt Nội Dung
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