Hamster Info Ireland

03/04/2025

April is Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Awareness Month 🐹

At Hamster Info Ireland, we are deeply committed to rescuing and rehoming hamsters who find themselves abandoned, neglected, or mistreated. While many of the hamsters we receive are surrendered by responsible owners who genuinely can no longer care for their pet, unfortunately, we also handle cases of severe abuse, neglect, or mistreatment.

Let’s be clear: pets are a privilege, not a right. When you bring an animal into your life, you are making a lifelong commitment to care for them. Animals rely 100% on their human carers, and they deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. They don’t get to choose their owner, so it’s up to us to be responsible. Too often, we see hamsters treated as mere novelties, only to be neglected when the fun wears off.

Every animal has the right to the 5 Freedoms, and it's the responsibility of all pet owners to ensure their animals' needs are fully met.
💜 Freedom from hunger and thirst
💙 Freedom from discomfort
🧡 Freedom from pain, injury, and disease
💛 Freedom to express normal behaviour
💚 Freedom from fear and distress

Backyard breeders and pet shops that sell live animals are also part of the problem. These businesses focus on making quick sales and don't check whether potential owners are ready to properly care for their new pets. These impulsive purchases leave owners without the necessary knowledge to provide adequate care. We strongly advise against buying animals from pet shops or backyard breeders, especially when so many are waiting for loving homes in rescues. Animal rescues genuinely care about where their animals go and offer lifelong support to their new families.

If you believe in what we do and want to support our mission, please consider donating to our charity. Your support helps us continue our vital rescue work and gives these beautiful creatures the second chance they deserve.
Donations can be made through our website: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/donate/

Let’s work together to make the world a safer, kinder place for all animals. 💜

Hamster Info Ireland is a registered charity in the Republic of Ireland.
RCN: 20206484

31/03/2025

🐹✨ Issue 9 of Hamster Info Ireland's Newsletter is Out Now! ✨🐹

We're excited to share that the latest edition of our seasonal newsletter is now available!

By signing up to our Patreon for just €3 a month, you’ll receive access to all of our charity newsletters, plus exclusive behind-the-scenes content! Your monthly contribution will go directly towards the care of our rescue hamsters, including our recent intake of 5 new hamsters, all of whom need vet care.

Every €3 makes a big difference and will help us provide the love and care these little ones deserve. 💚

Sign up today and become part of the Hamster Info Ireland 'hamily'! Your support helps us continue our mission to rescue and care for hamsters in need. https://www.patreon.com/c/HamsterInfoIreland

30/03/2025

We are appealing for your support for our latest intake of 5 hamsters who were relinquished from a vulnerable person who couldn’t properly care for them or assess risks to their health.

These hamsters were being kept in a range of small, bare totes and a rabbit hide, and often were found in each other’s enclosures and “played together”, causing several injuries. They were put loose outside in the garden while the owner hung washing and were taken to local shops in a little fabric animal carrier bag.

They were overfed on unsuitable staple foods, such as bread, corn, and fruits. Human bowls of unsuitable hamster food were piled in their tiny bins, as portions for hamsters were not understood.

They also had access to little or no hides or enrichment: nobody had anything more than a sprinkle of substrate, so the hamsters were always exposed, even when sleeping.

One of these hamsters is 3 years old and has an infected scent gland, so he will be a permanent resident who needs ongoing support. Two others need vet care for superficial wounds and eye issues, and the several need specialist dietary supports and enrichment plans for weight loss management.

The costs associated with rehabilitating these hamsters will be significant.
We are urgently requesting support from our loyal community to financially care for these hamsters and find them forever homes. You can make a donation here: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/donate/

Adopting a rescue hamster is another great way to help. Not only will you be giving a hamster a loving home, you’ll also be freeing a space within our network, ready for the next hamster in need - https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/available-for-adoption/

Lastly, we are always keen to hear from anyone who could volunteer to foster or transport for us - https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/rescue/

27/03/2025

Thyme appreciation post, look at that little face, how has she not been adopted?!

26/03/2025

Why Multi-Species Food Isn’t Ideal for Your Hamster 🐹

Multi-species foods labelled with generic terms such as "Hamster & Gerbil," "Rat & Mouse," or "Small Animal" are common staples on many Irish pet store shelves. You might even see them in your local supermarket! Despite being common, though, these foods can lead to nutritional deficiencies if fed to your hamster. Here’s why:

Different animals have different needs: Multi-species mixes just don’t provide the right balance of vitamins and minerals for each animal. Food brands cannot possibly hope to replicate the native diets of each distinct species if they're trying to cater to multiple animals with just one product. The macro- and micronutrients each species needs are similar but not the same! Ignoring these differences can lead to health issues such as poor coat condition, developmental problems in young animals, and dental disease.

Even within the hamster family, each species has a distinct set of nutritional needs: For example, Syrian hamsters can safely enjoy bigger portions of carb-rich foods such as fruits and starchy seeds, while it's best to avoid excessive carbs for hybrid dwarf hamsters, who are prone to weight gain and diabetes. The hamster species also have native differences in their diets: Syrian hamsters tend to favour larger seeds, whereas dwarf hamsters tend to gravitate to smaller seeds, but generic mixes cater to neither preference. Likewise, Roborovskis may eat more insects in the wild than their counterparts based on initial research, but we cannot see this reflected in generic foods' insect content. Generic foods cannot cater to the specific needs and life stage of your pet, either, such as overweight, elderly, or less active hamsters. Younger hamsters need more protein than older hamsters, for example, which is not reflected in generic foods.

The solution? Species-specific food!
Choose a high-quality hamster food tailored to your hamster's specific species, using our shopping guide to help you choose if you're unsure. Their staple diet should contain a wide variety of ingredients: There's no magic number here, but many of the recommended diets contain 30 or more unique ingredients! The mixes should also closely resemble the native diet of your hamster species and offer lots of enrichment through different textures, scents, and tastes. Your chosen food should not contain filler ingredients such as pellets or hay, which are unappetising for your pet and often nutritionally sparse. Choose a mix that uses natural ingredients, opting for less processed ingredients where possible and avoiding artificial colours and additives. Pay attention to the life stage and needs of your pet when choosing their food: You can often find low-carb, junior and senior options from the best brands on the market.

24/03/2025

Hamster Care Tip: Beware of Harmful Sands! 🐹

Not all sands are created equal! When choosing the right type for your hamster, it's important to avoid certain sands that could be harmful to their health.

🔴 Dusty Sand = Respiratory Hazard
Dusty sands contain tiny particles that get airborne when your hamster digs or moves. The two most common "dusty" types of sand are sepiolite sands (usually sold as small animal bathing sand, chinchilla sand, or chinchilla dust) and extra-fine silica sands (for example, aquarium filtration sands). Inhaling these particles can lead to:
🔸 Coughing, sneezing, and wheezing
🔸 Excessively dry skin or fur
🔸 Chronic respiratory issues (especially in hamsters with pre-existing conditions)

🔴 Dyed Sand = Chemical Risk
Brightly coloured sand may look fun, but it's often filled with artificial dyes that can cause:
🔸 Skin irritation or respiratory problems
🔸 Toxicity from ingestion over time
🔸 Possible exposure to heavy metals and harmful substances

🔴 Calcium Sand = Digestive & Urinary Issues
Calcium sand, typically meant for reptiles, can cause:
🔸 Digestive blockages
🔸 Urinary problems like bladder stones from excess calcium

🟢 Best advice: Avoid sepiolite-based sands and instead opt for reptile, terrarium, or silver aquarium sand. Don't select versions with artificial dyes or added calcium. Don't use extra-fine sand varieties or sands designed for filtration or construction.

24/03/2025

24/03/2025

22/03/2025

Fluffy But Fatal: How some soft beddings can harm your hamster

Fluffy bedding, often sold as 'cotton wool', or 'nesting material' for small animals, poses a serious risk to your hamster. The long loose fibres of this material can easily become tangled around their tiny limbs, cutting off circulation. This can lead to severe swelling and, in the worst-case scenario, may necessitate amputation of the affected limb.

Furthermore, hamsters are natural groomers and sometimes ingest small amounts of their bedding. If they swallow these fluffy fibres, they can accumulate in their digestive system, forming a blockage. This blockage can cause severe discomfort, pain, and even be fatal if left untreated. An example of digestive impaction involving kapok can be seen on Page 5 of the following article:https://www.hamsterwelfare.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/Ingested-Fluffy-Bedding-Intestinal-Obstruction-Vicki-Baldrey-Royal-Veterinary-College-Companion-Animal.pdf

Some hamster keepers argue that they've used it for years without an issue. However, when there are very simple safe alternatives available - like shredded tissue/toilet paper - there really isn't a need to risk using types of bedding that may cause harm.

21/03/2025

The Dangers of Inadequate Wheels for Hamsters

Wheels are a crucial part of hamster care, allowing a hamster to keep fit, minimise stress and beat boredom. However, not all wheels are created equal, and choosing the wrong type can lead to serious problems.

Unsafe Wheels: A Recipe for Spinal Issues
🔴 Natural Posture Disrupted: Hamsters have a natural running posture. When a wheel is too small in diameter, the hamster is forced to arch its back excessively to run, placing significant stress on their spine.
🔴 Long-Term Damage: Repeated strain can lead to permanent spinal deformities, chronic pain, and mobility problems. It's like a human constantly running in a hunched-over position – the long-term effects are detrimental.
🔴 Saucer/Dish type wheels can cause a curvature of the hamster's spine and uneven pressure on their joints and muscles. Hamsters can easily be flung from these types of wheels, causing injury.

Wire Wheels: A Hazard for Tiny Feet
🔴 Entrapment and Injury: Wire mesh or barred running surfaces present a serious risk of entrapment. A hamster's tiny feet can easily slip through the gaps, leading to injury.
🔴 Pododermatitis (Bumblefoot): The uneven and often rough surface of wire wheels can cause painful sores and inflammation on the hamster's paws. This condition, commonly known as Bumblefoot, is very painful and can be difficult to treat.

Choosing a Safe Wheel
🟢 Opt for an upright plastic or wooden wheel with a closed back wall.
🟢 It should have a solid, smooth running surface without ridges, rungs or bars. Cork lined tracks offer an even smoother surface that is more gentle on feet.
🟢 Ensure the wheel is large enough to allow your hamster to run with a straight back. They should not be tilting their head upwards.
🟢 For Syrian hamsters, a wheel of at least 28-30cm in diameter is required. Dwarf hamsters require a minimum of 21cm. It's essential to consider the hamster's size and species when choosing a wheel.

20/03/2025

Tiny Cages vs. Large Enclosures for Hamsters

Those brightly coloured, plastic hamster cages sold by many pet retailers sell well due to eyecatchingly playful, compact designs, but in reality, they're a disaster for hamsters.

Hamsters are naturally very active, covering a lot of ground while foraging, burrowing, and exploring. Confining them to these tiny cages is akin to a human living in a jungle gym. The space is incredibly restrictive by design, which leads to a whole host of behaviour and hygiene issues.

THE ISSUES
🔴 Cramped Conditions: They simply don't provide enough space for a hamster to express their natural behaviours, such as running, foraging, and burrowing. This leads to boredom and stress.
🔴 Stress-Induced Behaviours: Bar biting, pacing, and climbing are classic signs of stress often seen in small cages.
🔴 Health Implications: Prolonged stress weakens a hamster's immune system, making them more susceptible to illness. It is also linked to aggression and excessive grooming.
🔴 False Economy: While these cages tend to be affordable, you'll likely end up with expensive replacements, potential escapees, and maybe costly vet fees.
🔴 Misleading Marketing: We need to be more critical of the pet trade's motivations and the products being sold so we can prioritise the wellbeing of our pets over a corporation's profits.

THE SOLUTION
🟢 Opt for a large, spacious enclosure that meets HII national standards: See our Enclosures page for a list of those available in ROI/NI. https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/enclosures/
🟢 Focus on maximising floor space: Hamsters are burrowers, so they need plenty of substrate height to dig into, but horizontal space is most important since they are ground dwellers.
🟢 Provide plenty of enrichment: Include a large wheel, tunnels, hides, deep bedding, and foraging materials.

Ultimately, choosing the right enclosure makes your hamster comfortable, which makes them far more likely to interact well with their humans. Moving away from small caging provides our furry friends with the space and stimulation they deserve.

19/03/2025

Cohabitation vs. Solitary Living for Hamsters

At Hamster Info Ireland, we deal with the damage when hamsters are housed together. Many Irish pet shops still sell hamsters in pairs or groups, leading to stress or even potentially fatal fighting.

Hamsters are solitary, protective animals by nature. Territorial fallouts are more common again in hybridised dwarf hamsters sold in Irish pet shops. When kept together, hamsters are forced to be close proximity rivals, causing constant stress and aggression. Initial findings suggest almost 70% of cohabitation cases end in fighting.

Fights are sudden, unpredictable, and vicious. Even if they seem playful at first, just one quick fight can cause devastation without any prior warning.

Pet shops claim same-s*x hamsters from the same litter will get along, but that’s just not true. Age, s*x, and species don’t matter when it comes to territorial behaviour.

Housing hamsters together also increases the risk of accidental breeding. One miss*xed pair can lead to dozens of unwanted babies, and health problems for both mum and pups. Our ‘Barista Litter’ rescue had over 50 hamsters born from one miss*xed pair!

Bottom line: Hamsters are happier and healthier solo. Don’t risk the stress, fights, or unplanned litters, and save yourself the cost and upset of dealing with cohabitation.

18/03/2025

💚 VOLUNTEER FOR HAMSTER INFO IRELAND 💚

One of our main goals for 2025 is to expand our rescue network, so we are looking for passionate volunteers to join our team and help us rescue and rehome hamsters in need!

There are so many ways you can make a difference:

🧡 Foster: Open your heart and home to a rescued hamster! Fostering helps give these little ones a safe and loving environment while they wait for their forever homes. Full training is provided for this role. Could you be the next fosterer to join our team? Apply here: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/foster-application-pack/

💙 Transport Volunteer: Sometimes hamsters need a lift from one place to another, whether moving within our rescue network or being brought to their forever homes! If you commute between major towns, regularly travel across counties to visit family or friends, or simply have some spare time on your hands we'd love to hear from you! We're looking for transporters across all parts of the country, so as long as you don't mind the odd small fluffy passenger hitching a lift, why not apply: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/transport/
Travel expenses such as miles, tolls, and fares can be reimbursed.

💜 Donations: As a registered charity, we rely on your generous donations to fund our rescue efforts. Every little bit counts, and for as little as €3 per month through Patreon, you can help cover the costs of food, bedding, medical care, and more! Sign up here! https://www.patreon.com/c/HamsterInfoIreland/posts
One-off donations can be made through our website, or why not buy our rescue hamsters a surprise treat from our Amazon wishlist: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/donate/

If you want to make a positive impact and help these adorable creatures get a fresh start, reach out to us today! Let’s work together to rescue even more hamsters and give them a better life. 🐹💖

Hamster Info Ireland is a registered charity in the Republic of Ireland.
RCN: 20206484

12/03/2025

🐹 Adopt, Don’t Shop - Give a Hamster a Forever Home! 🐹

We currently have 13 rescue hamsters waiting for their loving homes, with several more waiting to join us. Sadly, we're at capacity, and we can’t take in any more hamsters until some find their forever families. 😢

Our small charity works tirelessly to care for these sweet souls, but we're limited by the donations and foster homes we have. Many of these hamsters have been waiting for months, and it's heartbreaking knowing there are even more who need our help but can't come in until space is available. 🏡

We especially want to highlight our Roborovski hamsters, who aren't usually as popular as the other species but are equally deserving of a loving home. Despite their usual reputation for being flighty, these young Robos are actually quite friendly and would make wonderful companions. 💕

If you’ve been thinking about adopting a hamster, now is the perfect time! Your love and support will help us continue rescuing and caring for more hamsters in need. 💖🐹

Apply to Adopt here: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/available-for-adoption/
Have a question? Send us a message! We're happy to help! 😊

Hamster Info Ireland is a registered charity in the Republic of Ireland.
RCN: 20206484

06/03/2025

Some more great news to share with you all today! Candy, one of our "Pink" themed Roborovski girls, has been reserved for a home! 💖

Candy is only 12 weeks old, so we're delighted she has found a forever home so soon. Our statistics show that Robos sadly tend to spend the longest time in our foster care when compared to the other species. Candy's sister Sweetpea (now Pixi) recently found a home too! We'd love to see their other siblings Admiral, Steel, Azure and Cobalt also get adopted, as well as mum Barbie! Their super cute younger siblings Bubblegum, River, Sky and Smurf will also be looking for homes very soon so keep your eyes peeled for their adoption profiles on our website!!

Find your new best friend here: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/available-for-adoption/
Have a question about adoption? Send us a PM! 🐹💖

05/03/2025

We're so happy to announce that Hamish has been approved for adoption!

Hamish came to the rescue last summer, when his owner unfortunately had to move house and the new landlord refused to allow any pets. It really was a heartbreaking situation as he was a much loved and treasured pet.

Hamish spent 220 days in our foster care waiting for his special someone. At 1.5 years old, we are glad he has now found a new place to call home. 💖

🐹 If you'd like to adopt a rescue hamster please see our website for more info: https://hamsterinfoireland.ie/adoption-application-pack/

04/03/2025

It's Pancake Tuesday!! 🥞
So what better way to celebrate than making some hamster-friendly pancakes to share with your little friend! 🐹
Check out VanillaHamHam's recipe here:

How to make yummy hamster pancakes topped with banana and honey! Enjoy more tiny hamster food in the Hamster Kitchen mini cooking series : https://www.youtub...