Cats and hams

[DrKMcK]

Hello luxbear. I love cats and have had several. But I never have them when I have rodent pets. If you already have a cat and bring in a hammy, it's best to keep them apart. But having a ham already, I wouldn't bring a cat in. Cats are natural hunters and cannot be blamed for doing what comes naturally. Also, some hamsters are very stressed by the scent and presence of a cat. They know this is a predator. Occasionally, there will be a cat who actually likes hamsters. It's rare and I personally wouldn't ever allow a cat near my hams. I'd really consider what impact this would have on your Robo. His home might not feel so safe anymore.

[acapae]

I foster cats for my local Blue Cross. The cats are only allowed in the room with the hamsters when I'm there to supervise, and I initially do a bit of 'ignore that, focus elsewhere' training as I would do with dogs. When rodents are free ranging the cats are shut in a different room. It's not an issue at all. You just need to not be of the mindset that cats should always have free access to everywhere in the home.

Rodents may initially be more hesitant with cat smell around, but they should habituate after a while. You can help this along by initially being very cautious about not smelling of cat when you do hamstery things, and slowly over a period of weeks drop the caution at the rate that your pets are happy with.

[Kelibr]

I'd be afraid if the hamster escaped.

[acapae]

Originally Posted by Kelibr

I'd be afraid if the hamster escaped.

It's an increased risk, yes. However hamster housing and free range should be secure anyway as a base level. I'd definitely fully check over security in a home with any sort of predator/ prey species co-habiting.

[luxbear]

I totally understand where instincts would come into play in this instance, which is why I asked for some personal experiences. For now, I think it's just gonna be me and little Pumpkin!

[DrKMcK]

LOL Oh! Pumpkin is beautiful! I love the little bottom feet sticking out.

[basilthehammy]

SOOOOOOO cute! omg freaking out sooo adorable!

[acapae]

Always good to thoroughly think things through

I'm loving the massive whiskers!

[luxbear]

He likes to sit like a person and pretend he's a human. :P

[Truffle]

Oh! He is adorable- so sweet